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tabindex="-1">Golf</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/racing" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Racing</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/athletics" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Athletics</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/boxing" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Boxing</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/cycling" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Cycling</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/hockey" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Hockey</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/tennis" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Tennis</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/your-money" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Money</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_your-money" aria-label="Show Your Money sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 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tabindex="-1">Crime & Law</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_crime-law" aria-label="Show Crime & Law sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_crime-law"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/courts" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Courts</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/property" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Property</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_property" aria-label="Show Property sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_property"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/residential" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Residential</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/commercial-property" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Commercial Property</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/property/interiors" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Interiors</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/food" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Food</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_food" aria-label="Show Food sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_food"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/drink" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Drink</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/recipes" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Recipes</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/food/restaurants" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Restaurants</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/health" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Health</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_health" aria-label="Show Health sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_health"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-family" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Family</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-fitness" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Fitness</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-wellness" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Your Wellness</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/health/your-fitness/get-running" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Get Running</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Life & Style</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_life-style" aria-label="Show Life & Style sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_life-style"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/fashion" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Fashion</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/tags/beauty/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Beauty</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/fine-art-antiques" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Fine Art & Antiques</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/gardening" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Gardening</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/people" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">People</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/life-style/travel" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Travel</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/culture" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Culture</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_culture" aria-label="Show Culture sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div 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href="/culture/tv-radio" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">TV & Radio</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/environment" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Environment</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_environment" aria-label="Show Environment sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_environment"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/environment/climate-crisis" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Climate Crisis</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/technology" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Technology</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_technology" aria-label="Show Technology sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_technology"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/technology/big-tech" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Big Tech</a></li><li class="subsection-item" 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aria-label="Show Science sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_science"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/science/space" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Space</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/media" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Media</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/abroad" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Abroad</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/obituaries" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Obituaries</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/transport" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Transport</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/motors" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Motors</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_motors" aria-label="Show Motors sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_motors"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/motors/car-reviews/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Car Reviews</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/listen/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Listen</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Podcasts</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_podcasts" aria-label="Show Podcasts sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_podcasts"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/in-the-news" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">In the News Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/inside-politics" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Inside Politics Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/the-womens-podcast" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">The Women's Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/inside-business" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Inside Business Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/ross-ocarroll-kelly" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Ross O'Carroll-Kelly</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/the-counter-ruck" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">The Counter Ruck Podcast</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/podcasts/conversations-with-parents" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Conversations with Parents Podcast</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/video" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Video</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/photography" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Photography</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/history" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">History</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_history" aria-label="Show History sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_history"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/history/century" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Century</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/tuarascail" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Tuarascáil</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/student-hub" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Student Hub</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/offbeat" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Offbeat</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="https://notices.irishtimes.com" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Family Notices<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><div data-testid="nav-chain-section-item-subsection" class="c-stack b-header-nav-chain__subsection-anchor subsection-anchor " data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sponsored" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Sponsored</a><button aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="header_sub_section_sponsored" aria-label="Show Sponsored sub sections" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--default submenu-caret" type="button"><span><svg class="c-icon" width="20" height="20" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 512 512" fill="currentColor" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false"><path d="M256 416C247.812 416 239.62 412.875 233.38 406.625L41.38 214.625C28.88 202.125 28.88 181.875 41.38 169.375C53.88 156.875 74.13 156.875 86.63 169.375L256 338.8L425.4 169.4C437.9 156.9 458.15 156.9 470.65 169.4C483.15 181.9 483.15 202.15 470.65 214.65L278.65 406.65C272.4 412.9 264.2 416 256 416Z"></path></svg></span></button></div><div class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-container "><ul class="b-header-nav-chain__subsection-menu" id="header_sub_section_sponsored"><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/advertising-feature" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Advertising Feature</a></li><li class="subsection-item" data-testid="nav-chain-subsection-item"><a class="c-link" href="/special-reports" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Special Reports</a></li></ul></div></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/subscriber-rewards/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Subscriber Rewards</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/competitions" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Competitions</a></li><li class="section-item" data-testid="nav-chain-section-item"><a class="c-link" href="/weather/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1">Weather Forecast</a></li><li class="section-menu--bottom-placeholder"></li></ul></div></div></div></nav></header><section role="main" tabindex="-1" class="b-it-right-rail-advanced__main" id="main"><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__full-width-1" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div id="arcad-feature-f0f4wNYBUtWvcl2-d1edc67701d35" class="default__StyledAdUnit-sc-1moicrg-0 gKEhzJ arcad-feature" style="--mobile-display:none;--tablet-display:block;--desktop-display:block"><div class="arcad-container width_100" style="max-width:970px"><div id="arcad_f0f4wNYBUtWvcl2-d1edc67701d35" class="arcad ad-970x90"></div></div></div><div class="c-stack b-section-title" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><h1 class="c-heading">Sport</h1><div class="b-section-title__links"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/rugby/">Rugby</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/" rel="noreferrer" target="_blank">Six Nations<span class="visually-hidden">Opens in new window</span></a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/sport/gaelic-games/">Gaelic Games</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/">Soccer</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/sport/golf/">Golf</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/sport/racing/">Racing</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/sport/athletics/">Athletics</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/sport/boxing/">Boxing</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/sport/cycling/">Cycling</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/sport/hockey/">Hockey</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/sport/tennis/">Tennis</a><span class="c-separator"></span><a class="c-link" href="/tags/sportswoman-of-the-year-award/">Sportswoman of the Year</a></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/><div id="lazy_43942" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__453 has-divider gap-divider"><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-4" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top-hide c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet c-it-border--desktop"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Fabien Galthié: ‘We feel bad for Dupont. 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In terms of the action, in my opinion it was reprehensible’ </a></h3><p class="c-paragraph"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/">France have cited Tadhg Beirne and Andrew Porter for the incident that injured the French captain</a></p><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"><span class="c-it-byline c-it-byline--list"><span>By</span><span> Malachy Clerkin</span><span class="c-separator"></span></span><time class="c-it-promo-date" dateTime="2025-03-08T18:30:38.823Z">Sat Mar 08 2025 - 18:30</time></div></div></div></article></div><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list"><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list-medium-container false"><article class="b-top-table-list-medium"><div><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/limerick-bounce-back-with-comfortable-win-over-14-man-galway/">Limerick bounce back with comfortable win over 14-man Galway</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph">Treaty men put last week’s defeat behind them with 12-point victory at the Gaelic Grounds</p><div class="c-attribution"><time class="c-date" dateTime="2025-03-08T21:54:11.734Z">Sat Mar 08 2025 - 21:54</time></div></div><hr class="c-divider"/></article></div></div><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__hide-hide c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__md-sm text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/french-power-game-blows-ireland-off-the-park-as-grand-slam-hopes-obliterated/">French power game blows Ireland off the park as Grand Slam hopes obliterated</a></h3><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"><time class="c-it-promo-date" dateTime="2025-03-08T16:58:29.639Z">Sat Mar 08 2025 - 16:58</time></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-5" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-27-france-42-how-the-irish-players-rated-at-the-aviva-stadium/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img fetchpriority="low" data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Ireland 27 France 42: How the Irish players rated at the 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Irish players rated at the Aviva Stadium </a></h3><p class="c-paragraph"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-27-france-42-how-the-irish-players-rated-at-the-aviva-stadium/">Two yellow cards had Ireland on the back foot for most of the game</a></p><div class="b-flex-promo-card__metadata"><span class="c-it-byline c-it-byline--list"><span>By</span><span> Johnny Watterson</span></span></div></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item grid-column-span-3" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-grid b-it-header-block"><div class="b-it-header-block__header-block font-normal "><div class="c-stack b-it-header-block__heading-h5 font-normal" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack 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data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Promo Image" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/FRQG7IHZMJC4NKFG7ABEVXEF5Q.jpg?smart=true&auth=73bb8e13ea4a0ba7a01b1026ae04a1ec5623b5a5252a5adb3ab047b550f08f5a&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/FRQG7IHZMJC4NKFG7ABEVXEF5Q.jpg?smart=true&auth=73bb8e13ea4a0ba7a01b1026ae04a1ec5623b5a5252a5adb3ab047b550f08f5a&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/FRQG7IHZMJC4NKFG7ABEVXEF5Q.jpg?smart=true&auth=73bb8e13ea4a0ba7a01b1026ae04a1ec5623b5a5252a5adb3ab047b550f08f5a&width=440&height=247 440w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/FRQG7IHZMJC4NKFG7ABEVXEF5Q.jpg?smart=true&auth=73bb8e13ea4a0ba7a01b1026ae04a1ec5623b5a5252a5adb3ab047b550f08f5a&width=800&height=450 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 440px) 440px, (min-width: 441px) 800px" width="800" height="450"/></div></a></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_wrapper" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="space-between" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_text" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/author/malachy-clerkin/"><h3 class="c-heading b-it-our-writers__writer_name">Malachy Clerkin</h3></a><a class="c-link" href="/sport/2025/03/08/malachy-clerkin-cheltenhams-thrill-is-gone-as-the-best-stories-are-replaced-by-the-betting-the-betting-the-betting/"><h4 class="c-heading b-it-our-writers__writer_description">Malachy Clerkin: Cheltenham’s thrill is gone as the best stories are replaced by the betting, the betting, the betting </h4></a></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_image" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="center" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/2025/03/08/malachy-clerkin-cheltenhams-thrill-is-gone-as-the-best-stories-are-replaced-by-the-betting-the-betting-the-betting/"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Malachy Clerkin" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2F78896e84-58fc-4cb8-95a3-bc74b66635c7.png?auth=26e7c797466d6e5e39336762d9e8c3a62fa23d3ef0382116dca02407719ffb00&width=118" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2F78896e84-58fc-4cb8-95a3-bc74b66635c7.png?auth=26e7c797466d6e5e39336762d9e8c3a62fa23d3ef0382116dca02407719ffb00&width=400 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2F78896e84-58fc-4cb8-95a3-bc74b66635c7.png?auth=26e7c797466d6e5e39336762d9e8c3a62fa23d3ef0382116dca02407719ffb00&width=440 440w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2F78896e84-58fc-4cb8-95a3-bc74b66635c7.png?auth=26e7c797466d6e5e39336762d9e8c3a62fa23d3ef0382116dca02407719ffb00&width=800 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 440px) 440px, (min-width: 441px) 800px" width="118"/></a></div></div></div></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div direction="vertical" wrap="wrap" class="c-grid b-it-our-writers"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_promo image_hide" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/kevin-kilbane-fai-must-aim-at-league-of-ireland-players-being-picked-for-the-republics-squad/"><div style="aspect-ratio:1.7777777777777777;background-color:var(--global-neutral-1)" class=""><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Promo Image" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/YLXL7EWTBNAJXC6JQHKGMY2HRY.jpg?smart=true&auth=88b4d67ab2a57225cb3767d4bedbfc44823846d662ac8a8bc8c9796e13093ce9&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/YLXL7EWTBNAJXC6JQHKGMY2HRY.jpg?smart=true&auth=88b4d67ab2a57225cb3767d4bedbfc44823846d662ac8a8bc8c9796e13093ce9&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/YLXL7EWTBNAJXC6JQHKGMY2HRY.jpg?smart=true&auth=88b4d67ab2a57225cb3767d4bedbfc44823846d662ac8a8bc8c9796e13093ce9&width=440&height=247 440w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/YLXL7EWTBNAJXC6JQHKGMY2HRY.jpg?smart=true&auth=88b4d67ab2a57225cb3767d4bedbfc44823846d662ac8a8bc8c9796e13093ce9&width=800&height=450 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 440px) 440px, (min-width: 441px) 800px" width="800" height="450"/></div></a></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_wrapper" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="space-between" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_text" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/author/kevin-kilbane/"><h3 class="c-heading b-it-our-writers__writer_name">Kevin Kilbane</h3></a><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/kevin-kilbane-fai-must-aim-at-league-of-ireland-players-being-picked-for-the-republics-squad/"><h4 class="c-heading b-it-our-writers__writer_description">Kevin Kilbane: FAI must aim at League of Ireland players being picked for the Republic’s squad </h4></a></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_image" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="center" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/kevin-kilbane-fai-must-aim-at-league-of-ireland-players-being-picked-for-the-republics-squad/"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Kevin Kilbane" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2Fe4342687-587f-462c-9ca1-0a1536433d17.png?auth=a987e009dc9b664f660edd6b36a53f1566c55098d8f79cac5fefb72403c33092&width=118" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2Fe4342687-587f-462c-9ca1-0a1536433d17.png?auth=a987e009dc9b664f660edd6b36a53f1566c55098d8f79cac5fefb72403c33092&width=400 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2Fe4342687-587f-462c-9ca1-0a1536433d17.png?auth=a987e009dc9b664f660edd6b36a53f1566c55098d8f79cac5fefb72403c33092&width=440 440w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2Fe4342687-587f-462c-9ca1-0a1536433d17.png?auth=a987e009dc9b664f660edd6b36a53f1566c55098d8f79cac5fefb72403c33092&width=800 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 440px) 440px, (min-width: 441px) 800px" width="118"/></a></div></div></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_promo image_hide" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/07/tweaks-by-frc-to-rules-are-minimalist-but-likely-to-have-a-major-impact/"><div style="aspect-ratio:1.7777777777777777;background-color:var(--global-neutral-1)" class=""><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Promo Image" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/Z2SPSNALYZHQBFZX3KT5CX562I.jpg?smart=true&auth=3ce0e7bcd705ae8a2ba2403e86db34ef6259a922fcca5bd86a9dc20d5b9db56c&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/Z2SPSNALYZHQBFZX3KT5CX562I.jpg?smart=true&auth=3ce0e7bcd705ae8a2ba2403e86db34ef6259a922fcca5bd86a9dc20d5b9db56c&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/Z2SPSNALYZHQBFZX3KT5CX562I.jpg?smart=true&auth=3ce0e7bcd705ae8a2ba2403e86db34ef6259a922fcca5bd86a9dc20d5b9db56c&width=440&height=247 440w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/Z2SPSNALYZHQBFZX3KT5CX562I.jpg?smart=true&auth=3ce0e7bcd705ae8a2ba2403e86db34ef6259a922fcca5bd86a9dc20d5b9db56c&width=800&height=450 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 440px) 440px, (min-width: 441px) 800px" width="800" height="450"/></div></a></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_wrapper" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="space-between" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_text" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/author/sean-moran/"><h3 class="c-heading b-it-our-writers__writer_name">Seán Moran</h3></a><a class="c-link" href="/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/07/tweaks-by-frc-to-rules-are-minimalist-but-likely-to-have-a-major-impact/"><h4 class="c-heading b-it-our-writers__writer_description">Tweaks by FRC to rules are minimalist, but likely to have a major impact</h4></a></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_image" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="center" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/07/tweaks-by-frc-to-rules-are-minimalist-but-likely-to-have-a-major-impact/"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Seán Moran" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2Fe54cd84e-353e-4e15-b118-68f1f7f7ab0a.png?auth=8edddc7baae3d98115d9085c99d336820c20381e7425df3dcbbd2c18f27814ee&width=118" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2Fe54cd84e-353e-4e15-b118-68f1f7f7ab0a.png?auth=8edddc7baae3d98115d9085c99d336820c20381e7425df3dcbbd2c18f27814ee&width=400 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2Fe54cd84e-353e-4e15-b118-68f1f7f7ab0a.png?auth=8edddc7baae3d98115d9085c99d336820c20381e7425df3dcbbd2c18f27814ee&width=440 440w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2Fe54cd84e-353e-4e15-b118-68f1f7f7ab0a.png?auth=8edddc7baae3d98115d9085c99d336820c20381e7425df3dcbbd2c18f27814ee&width=800 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 440px) 440px, (min-width: 441px) 800px" width="118"/></a></div></div></div></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div direction="vertical" wrap="wrap" class="c-grid b-it-our-writers"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_promo image_hide" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/irish-women-have-real-medal-winning-potential-at-european-indoor-championships-this-weekend/"><div style="aspect-ratio:1.7777777777777777;background-color:var(--global-neutral-1)" class=""><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Promo Image" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/MLUPRF6QFVBMBBDLGPPRMTNQRA.jpg?smart=true&auth=e68640848685015401eba4f375d1f8cc161eeffad55daa1f293e8268346f1cce&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/MLUPRF6QFVBMBBDLGPPRMTNQRA.jpg?smart=true&auth=e68640848685015401eba4f375d1f8cc161eeffad55daa1f293e8268346f1cce&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/MLUPRF6QFVBMBBDLGPPRMTNQRA.jpg?smart=true&auth=e68640848685015401eba4f375d1f8cc161eeffad55daa1f293e8268346f1cce&width=440&height=247 440w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/MLUPRF6QFVBMBBDLGPPRMTNQRA.jpg?smart=true&auth=e68640848685015401eba4f375d1f8cc161eeffad55daa1f293e8268346f1cce&width=800&height=450 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 440px) 440px, (min-width: 441px) 800px" width="800" height="450"/></div></a></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_wrapper" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="space-between" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_text" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/author/sonia-osullivan/"><h3 class="c-heading b-it-our-writers__writer_name">Sonia O'Sullivan</h3></a><a class="c-link" href="/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/irish-women-have-real-medal-winning-potential-at-european-indoor-championships-this-weekend/"><h4 class="c-heading b-it-our-writers__writer_description">Irish women have real medal-winning potential at European Indoor Championships this weekend</h4></a></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_image" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="center" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/irish-women-have-real-medal-winning-potential-at-european-indoor-championships-this-weekend/"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Sonia O'Sullivan" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2F8f580458-cd97-404e-a4c1-42df80771d23.png?auth=b3b1a94cd9acbc01b39df4ddcfc83704ed8457b0739b9799a1d416e2c8a1a54e&width=118" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2F8f580458-cd97-404e-a4c1-42df80771d23.png?auth=b3b1a94cd9acbc01b39df4ddcfc83704ed8457b0739b9799a1d416e2c8a1a54e&width=400 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2F8f580458-cd97-404e-a4c1-42df80771d23.png?auth=b3b1a94cd9acbc01b39df4ddcfc83704ed8457b0739b9799a1d416e2c8a1a54e&width=440 440w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/https%3A%2F%2Fs3.amazonaws.com%2Farc-authors%2Firishtimes%2F8f580458-cd97-404e-a4c1-42df80771d23.png?auth=b3b1a94cd9acbc01b39df4ddcfc83704ed8457b0739b9799a1d416e2c8a1a54e&width=800 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 440px) 440px, (min-width: 441px) 800px" width="118"/></a></div></div></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_promo image_hide" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/matt-williams-france-have-the-power-and-unpredictability-to-put-ireland-in-a-spin/"><div style="aspect-ratio:1.7777777777777777;background-color:var(--global-neutral-1)" class=""><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Promo Image" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/GEKSN3OX6CKRCSRLDNOILY52L4.jpg?smart=true&auth=0271c7c30f1720d930670ae2144b358fc26813394bac905ed3c1474a0be3ce0f&width=800&height=450" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/GEKSN3OX6CKRCSRLDNOILY52L4.jpg?smart=true&auth=0271c7c30f1720d930670ae2144b358fc26813394bac905ed3c1474a0be3ce0f&width=400&height=225 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/GEKSN3OX6CKRCSRLDNOILY52L4.jpg?smart=true&auth=0271c7c30f1720d930670ae2144b358fc26813394bac905ed3c1474a0be3ce0f&width=440&height=247 440w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/GEKSN3OX6CKRCSRLDNOILY52L4.jpg?smart=true&auth=0271c7c30f1720d930670ae2144b358fc26813394bac905ed3c1474a0be3ce0f&width=800&height=450 800w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 400px, (max-width: 440px) 440px, (min-width: 441px) 800px" width="800" height="450"/></div></a></div><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_wrapper" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="space-between" data-style-alignment="start" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-our-writers__writer_text" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" 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href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-v-france-live-updates-from-crunch-six-nations-clash-at-the-aviva/">Ireland v France: Les Bleus run riot to win in Dublin – As it happened</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-v-france-live-updates-from-crunch-six-nations-clash-at-the-aviva/">Ireland beaten 42-27 at the Aviva Stadium</a></p></div></div></article></div><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__hide-hide c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet c-it-border--desktop"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__md text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/">Scotland run in five tries as Wales continue losing run despite late fightback</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/">Wales cut the deficit after the break as Scotland took foot off the gas</a></p></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list"><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list-medium-container false"><article class="b-top-table-list-medium"><div><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-boss-simon-easterby-pinpoints-chances-not-taken-and-ones-given-up-too-easy/">Ireland boss Simon Easterby pinpoints chances not taken and ones given up too easy</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph">Interim head coach questions referee’s decision not to penalise France in lead-up to Paul Boudehent’s try </p></div><hr class="c-divider"/></article><article class="b-top-table-list-medium"><div><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/">Fabien Galthié: ‘We feel bad for Dupont. 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https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5Y4TIJZYU7AQAFVFTNTSJS3BY.jpg?smart=true&auth=cdbfb3e78b4b6da16632490844d366d1b00672cc9bf6b1b989745b1c73a646a1&width=800&height=533 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/D5Y4TIJZYU7AQAFVFTNTSJS3BY.jpg?smart=true&auth=cdbfb3e78b4b6da16632490844d366d1b00672cc9bf6b1b989745b1c73a646a1&width=1200&height=799 1200w" width="800" height="533"/></figure></a><hr class="c-divider"/></article><article class="c-grid b-top-table-list-small b-top-table-list-small--right"><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/three-yellow-cards-do-little-to-halt-france-against-ireland-u20s/">Three yellow cards do little to halt France against Ireland U20s</a></h3><a class="c-link" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/three-yellow-cards-do-little-to-halt-france-against-ireland-u20s/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><figure class="c-media-item"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Three yellow cards do little to halt France against Ireland U20s" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6THLZP37HFGZBOAULTMSKXOD7M.jpg?smart=true&auth=d1a663775af32cda49f52e33986294a38b926687203c94dd2d8344bb48247cf0&width=800&height=533" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6THLZP37HFGZBOAULTMSKXOD7M.jpg?smart=true&auth=d1a663775af32cda49f52e33986294a38b926687203c94dd2d8344bb48247cf0&width=400&height=266 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6THLZP37HFGZBOAULTMSKXOD7M.jpg?smart=true&auth=d1a663775af32cda49f52e33986294a38b926687203c94dd2d8344bb48247cf0&width=600&height=399 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6THLZP37HFGZBOAULTMSKXOD7M.jpg?smart=true&auth=d1a663775af32cda49f52e33986294a38b926687203c94dd2d8344bb48247cf0&width=800&height=533 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/6THLZP37HFGZBOAULTMSKXOD7M.jpg?smart=true&auth=d1a663775af32cda49f52e33986294a38b926687203c94dd2d8344bb48247cf0&width=1200&height=799 1200w" width="800" height="533"/></figure></a><hr class="c-divider"/></article></div></div></div></div></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/><div class="c-grid b-it-header-block"><div class="b-it-header-block__header-block font-normal "><a class="c-link b-it-header-block__link font-normal" href="/sport/soccer/"><div class="c-stack b-it-header-block__heading-h5 font-normal" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack headline-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:0"><h2 as="h5" class="c-heading font-normal margin_none"><span class=" font-normal">SOCCER<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="24" viewBox="0 0 14 24" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" class="c-icon"><path d="M1.13096 0.799122C1.80974 0.102652 2.7203 -0.288062 3.25008 0.255525L13.3161 10.5835C14.2279 11.4523 14.228 12.9331 13.3161 13.802L3.78 23.0857C2.92237 23.9029 2.18997 24.7165 0.637788 22.9345C-0.650965 21.455 0.273466 20.6414 1.1311 19.8243L8.71733 12.5593C8.91647 12.3686 8.92364 12.0527 8.73336 11.8531L0.748709 3.47961C-0.108924 2.6625 0.0713963 1.88627 1.13096 0.799122Z"></path></svg></span></h2></div></div></a></div></div><div id="lazy_50068" class="lazy_container"><div class="b-flex-chain"><div class="b-flex-chain__grid-container b-flex-chain__grid-container__444 has-divider gap-divider"><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__top 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href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/liverpool-extend-lead-to-16-points-at-top-after-comeback-win-over-southampton/">Liverpool extend lead to 16 points at top after comeback win over Southampton</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/liverpool-extend-lead-to-16-points-at-top-after-comeback-win-over-southampton/">Forest cut City down to size to boost Champions League qualification hopes; Watkins secures win for Villa against former side Brentford</a></p></div></div></article></div><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__hide-hide c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet c-it-border--desktop"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__md text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/stuart-pearce-recovering-in-hospital-after-health-scare-on-transatlantic-flight/">Stuart Pearce recovering in hospital after health scare on transatlantic flight</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/stuart-pearce-recovering-in-hospital-after-health-scare-on-transatlantic-flight/">The Virgin Atlantic flight from Las Vegas to London had to be diverted to Canada</a></p></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list"><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list-medium-container false"><article class="b-top-table-list-medium"><div><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/danny-grant-shoots-shamrock-rovers-to-first-win-of-the-season-against-st-pats/">Danny Grant shoots Shamrock Rovers to first win of the season</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph">Former Bohs recruit bags first goal for Rovers at Tallaght Stadium</p></div><hr class="c-divider"/></article><article class="b-top-table-list-medium"><div><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/liverpool-on-verge-of-90-year-old-scoring-record-but-arne-slot-wants-more/">Liverpool on verge of 90-year-old scoring record but Arne Slot wants more</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph">Manager says team can be more prolific despite 1935 Sunderland scoring streak being under threat on Saturday</p></div><hr class="c-divider"/></article><article class="b-top-table-list-medium"><div><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/a-day-off-is-a-day-off-pep-guardiola-relaxed-over-jack-grealish-pub-pictures/">‘A day off is a day off’: Pep Guardiola relaxed over Jack Grealish pub pictures</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph">City manager says players judged on pitch performance: ‘I’m not going to control what they do in their private life’</p></div><hr class="c-divider"/></article></div></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list"><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list-small-container b-top-table-list-small-container--1"><article class="c-grid b-top-table-list-small b-top-table-list-small--right"><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/dangerous-heat-is-a-real-threat-for-the-2026-world-cup-are-teams-ready/">Dangerous heat is a real threat for the 2026 World Cup. Are teams ready? </a></h3><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/dangerous-heat-is-a-real-threat-for-the-2026-world-cup-are-teams-ready/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><figure class="c-media-item"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Dangerous heat is a real threat for the 2026 World Cup. Are teams ready? 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class="c-divider"/></article><article class="c-grid b-top-table-list-small b-top-table-list-small--right"><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/millwall-goalkeeper-liam-roberts-has-suspension-extended-to-six-games/">Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has suspension extended to six games</a></h3><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/millwall-goalkeeper-liam-roberts-has-suspension-extended-to-six-games/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><figure class="c-media-item"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has suspension extended to six games" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/Q7OS4N54UAJSF4LVQVXXSF4ZWY.jpg?smart=true&auth=bc7b7c16ada18d8140ddf58434e27303fa425d53d3d5dc27f3a0bf6b8dcb4cde&width=800&height=533" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/Q7OS4N54UAJSF4LVQVXXSF4ZWY.jpg?smart=true&auth=bc7b7c16ada18d8140ddf58434e27303fa425d53d3d5dc27f3a0bf6b8dcb4cde&width=400&height=266 400w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/Q7OS4N54UAJSF4LVQVXXSF4ZWY.jpg?smart=true&auth=bc7b7c16ada18d8140ddf58434e27303fa425d53d3d5dc27f3a0bf6b8dcb4cde&width=600&height=399 600w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/Q7OS4N54UAJSF4LVQVXXSF4ZWY.jpg?smart=true&auth=bc7b7c16ada18d8140ddf58434e27303fa425d53d3d5dc27f3a0bf6b8dcb4cde&width=800&height=533 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/Q7OS4N54UAJSF4LVQVXXSF4ZWY.jpg?smart=true&auth=bc7b7c16ada18d8140ddf58434e27303fa425d53d3d5dc27f3a0bf6b8dcb4cde&width=1200&height=799 1200w" width="800" height="533"/></figure></a><hr class="c-divider"/></article><article class="c-grid b-top-table-list-small b-top-table-list-small--right"><h3 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" 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https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/2USFNCHYDGNXKAQLM2IUPODW54.jpg?smart=true&auth=913028c24a98ebbc13d76a7c04f04982101a2649479180c1d0d64d9a6fd43345&width=800&height=533 800w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/2USFNCHYDGNXKAQLM2IUPODW54.jpg?smart=true&auth=913028c24a98ebbc13d76a7c04f04982101a2649479180c1d0d64d9a6fd43345&width=1200&height=799 1200w" width="800" height="533"/></figure></a><hr class="c-divider"/></article></div></div><div class="b-it-button-block"><a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-button c-button--link c-button--large c-button--primary b-it-button-block__link" href="/soccer/tables-results-fixtures/"><span>Soccer tables, fixtures and results</span></a></div></div></div></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/></div><div class="c-grid b-it-right-rail-advanced__rail-container"><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-interior-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" 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height="450"/></a></figure><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__lg text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/sport/2025/03/07/shane-lowry-goes-top-of-leaderboard-at-arnold-palmer-invitational-after-67/">Shane Lowry goes top of leaderboard at Arnold Palmer Invitational after 67</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/2025/03/07/shane-lowry-goes-top-of-leaderboard-at-arnold-palmer-invitational-after-67/">Rory McIlroy four shots off the pace but well in the hunt in Florida</a></p></div></div></article></div><div class="c-stack b-flex-promo-list-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:1rem"><article class="b-flex-promo-card b-flex-promo-card__hide-hide c-it-border__bottom c-it-border--mobile c-it-border--tablet c-it-border--desktop"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text"><div class="b-flex-promo-card__text-no-overline"><h3 class="c-heading c-heading__md text-align_left"><a class="c-link font-bold" href="/sport/golf/2025/03/05/mcilroy-changes-his-armoury-for-tilt-at-20m-arnold-palmer-invitational/">McIlroy changes his driver and fairway woods for tilt at $20m Arnold Palmer Invitational</a></h3><p class="c-paragraph"><a class="c-link b-flex-promo-card__link" href="/sport/golf/2025/03/05/mcilroy-changes-his-armoury-for-tilt-at-20m-arnold-palmer-invitational/">‘Arnie’s Place' has copious water hazards, which will be a challenge for all the highrollers playing in Orlando</a></p></div></div></article></div></div><div class="c-stack grid-item " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list"><div class="c-grid b-top-table-list-medium-container false"><article 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class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/stuart-pearce-recovering-in-hospital-after-health-scare-on-transatlantic-flight/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Stuart Pearce recovering in hospital after health scare on transatlantic flight" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/OSWIBXY3AHVETXYHTUXOWIONMA.jpg?smart=true&auth=9dac99ea6527753868bca722cb110b2b19be168d38ef64514f6af7ebfd968cdc&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/OSWIBXY3AHVETXYHTUXOWIONMA.jpg?smart=true&auth=9dac99ea6527753868bca722cb110b2b19be168d38ef64514f6af7ebfd968cdc&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/OSWIBXY3AHVETXYHTUXOWIONMA.jpg?smart=true&auth=9dac99ea6527753868bca722cb110b2b19be168d38ef64514f6af7ebfd968cdc&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h2 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/stuart-pearce-recovering-in-hospital-after-health-scare-on-transatlantic-flight/">Stuart Pearce recovering in hospital after health scare on transatlantic flight</a></h2></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="b-results-list b-results-list--show-image"><figure class="c-media-item"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/2025/03/08/malachy-clerkin-cheltenhams-thrill-is-gone-as-the-best-stories-are-replaced-by-the-betting-the-betting-the-betting/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Malachy Clerkin: Cheltenham’s thrill is gone as the best stories are replaced by the betting, the betting, the betting " class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/FRQG7IHZMJC4NKFG7ABEVXEF5Q.jpg?smart=true&auth=73bb8e13ea4a0ba7a01b1026ae04a1ec5623b5a5252a5adb3ab047b550f08f5a&width=500&height=333" 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aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="Gaelic games previews: Moving weekend across the divisions in hurling" class="c-image" loading="eager" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HWFYEAAIY5A73GOGSR4RLXQYSE.jpg?smart=true&auth=401513a38d471c15d1a321164128c3d6d97c4d93de135a6816545668599a7794&width=500&height=333" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HWFYEAAIY5A73GOGSR4RLXQYSE.jpg?smart=true&auth=401513a38d471c15d1a321164128c3d6d97c4d93de135a6816545668599a7794&width=250&height=166 250w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/HWFYEAAIY5A73GOGSR4RLXQYSE.jpg?smart=true&auth=401513a38d471c15d1a321164128c3d6d97c4d93de135a6816545668599a7794&width=500&height=333 500w" sizes="(min-width: 48rem) 500px, 250px" width="500" height="333"/></a></figure><h2 class="c-heading"><a class="c-link" href="/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/gaelic-games-previews-moving-weekend-across-the-divisions-in-hurling/">Gaelic games previews: Moving weekend across the divisions in hurling</a></h2></div><hr class="c-divider"/><div class="c-stack b-results-list__seeMore" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><button aria-label="See more stories about this topic" class="c-button c-button--medium c-button--primary" type="button"><span>See more</span></button></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/><div id="arcad-feature-f0fBJh9JQlFfcpv-9295e610ea30f" class="default__StyledAdUnit-sc-1moicrg-0 gKEhzJ arcad-feature" style="--mobile-display:block;--tablet-display:block;--desktop-display:block"><div class="arcad-container width_100" style="max-width:728px"><div id="arcad_f0fBJh9JQlFfcpv-9295e610ea30f" class="arcad ad-728x90"></div></div></div><hr class="c-divider b-it-divider-block"/></div><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-interior-item-2" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div style="display:none" id="f0fGwWavGBnu36" data-fusion-collection="features" data-fusion-type="flex-promo/default" data-fusion-message="Could not render component [features:flex-promo/default]"></div></div></div><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-right-rail " data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-right-rail-top" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"></div><div class="c-stack b-it-right-rail-advanced__main-right-rail-middle" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="b-it-sticky-chain sticky-chain"><div><div class="c-grid b-it-header-block"><div class="b-it-header-block__header-block font-normal "><a class="c-link b-it-header-block__link font-normal" href="/most-read/"><div class="c-stack b-it-header-block__heading-h5 font-normal" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="center" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack headline-block" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap" style="--c-stack-gap:0"><h2 as="h5" class="c-heading font-normal margin_none"><span class=" font-normal">MOST READ<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="14" height="24" viewBox="0 0 14 24" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd" clip-rule="evenodd" class="c-icon"><path d="M1.13096 0.799122C1.80974 0.102652 2.7203 -0.288062 3.25008 0.255525L13.3161 10.5835C14.2279 11.4523 14.228 12.9331 13.3161 13.802L3.78 23.0857C2.92237 23.9029 2.18997 24.7165 0.637788 22.9345C-0.650965 21.455 0.273466 20.6414 1.1311 19.8243L8.71733 12.5593C8.91647 12.3686 8.92364 12.0527 8.73336 11.8531L0.748709 3.47961C-0.108924 2.6625 0.0713963 1.88627 1.13096 0.799122Z"></path></svg></span></h2></div></div></a></div></div></div><div><div class="c-stack b-numbered-list" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-numbered-list__items" data-style-direction="vertical" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><div class="c-stack b-numbered-list__item" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><p class="c-paragraph">1</p><a class="c-link" href="/crime-law/2025/03/08/nathan-mcdonnell-complained-to-gardai-about-crime-link-rumours-in-months-before-32m-drug-haul/"><h2 class="c-heading">Nathan McDonnell complained to gardaí about crime link rumours in months before €32m drug haul</h2></a><a class="c-link b-numbered-list__item-image" href="/crime-law/2025/03/08/nathan-mcdonnell-complained-to-gardai-about-crime-link-rumours-in-months-before-32m-drug-haul/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BO3ZP6NJG5GU7GDL3OUKDPEHYM.jpg?focal=441%2C338&auth=fcb89cc77639f75781d4405d4c2d4d1e6aa0db904c3175210d12fcae3d681eb7&width=274&height=182" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BO3ZP6NJG5GU7GDL3OUKDPEHYM.jpg?focal=441%2C338&auth=fcb89cc77639f75781d4405d4c2d4d1e6aa0db904c3175210d12fcae3d681eb7&width=137&height=91 137w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BO3ZP6NJG5GU7GDL3OUKDPEHYM.jpg?focal=441%2C338&auth=fcb89cc77639f75781d4405d4c2d4d1e6aa0db904c3175210d12fcae3d681eb7&width=274&height=182 274w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/BO3ZP6NJG5GU7GDL3OUKDPEHYM.jpg?focal=441%2C338&auth=fcb89cc77639f75781d4405d4c2d4d1e6aa0db904c3175210d12fcae3d681eb7&width=548&height=364 548w" width="274" height="182"/></a></div><hr aria-hidden="true"/><div class="c-stack b-numbered-list__item" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><p class="c-paragraph">2</p><a class="c-link" href="/ireland/education/2025/03/07/primary-teachers-working-at-second-level-schools-under-review-in-bid-to-remedy-staff-shortfall/"><h2 class="c-heading">Primary teachers may be allowed to work at second-level schools to tackle shortfalls</h2></a><a class="c-link b-numbered-list__item-image" href="/ireland/education/2025/03/07/primary-teachers-working-at-second-level-schools-under-review-in-bid-to-remedy-staff-shortfall/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/O5TFDP72DBDH3JV5G6AM4B3454.jpg?focal=1056%2C358&auth=638cdd326de4d9147158539abd75424b7365360f6146600088137bd450d8b1be&width=274&height=182" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/O5TFDP72DBDH3JV5G6AM4B3454.jpg?focal=1056%2C358&auth=638cdd326de4d9147158539abd75424b7365360f6146600088137bd450d8b1be&width=137&height=91 137w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/O5TFDP72DBDH3JV5G6AM4B3454.jpg?focal=1056%2C358&auth=638cdd326de4d9147158539abd75424b7365360f6146600088137bd450d8b1be&width=274&height=182 274w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/O5TFDP72DBDH3JV5G6AM4B3454.jpg?focal=1056%2C358&auth=638cdd326de4d9147158539abd75424b7365360f6146600088137bd450d8b1be&width=548&height=364 548w" width="274" height="182"/></a></div><hr aria-hidden="true"/><div class="c-stack b-numbered-list__item" data-style-direction="horizontal" data-style-justification="start" data-style-alignment="unset" data-style-inline="false" data-style-wrap="nowrap"><p class="c-paragraph">3</p><a class="c-link" href="/politics/2025/03/08/sinn-fein-td-thomas-gould-confirms-he-is-td-at-centre-of-fraud-probe/"><h2 class="c-heading">Sinn Féin’s Thomas Gould confirms he is TD at centre of fraud investigation</h2></a><a class="c-link b-numbered-list__item-image" href="/politics/2025/03/08/sinn-fein-td-thomas-gould-confirms-he-is-td-at-centre-of-fraud-probe/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/NCFR7VVWGDSDGLZDG6EN65JYWI.jpg?focal=2472%2C1775&auth=da1c5688aa3abcabca17873c4368d1f8675534146a32291eee4353aa2367129e&width=274&height=182" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/NCFR7VVWGDSDGLZDG6EN65JYWI.jpg?focal=2472%2C1775&auth=da1c5688aa3abcabca17873c4368d1f8675534146a32291eee4353aa2367129e&width=137&height=91 137w, 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In terms of the action, in my opinion it was reprehensible’ </h2></a><a class="c-link b-numbered-list__item-image" href="/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/" aria-hidden="true" tabindex="-1"><img data-chromatic="ignore" alt="" class="c-image" loading="lazy" src="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/4ETYB3SEQOTRLL4UBSD6LOUP4Q.jpg?smart=true&auth=0ccfbf99e04493ffce1175d2d8cf540cc5f06d9ef5c92795445879ac4f0b190f&width=274&height=182" srcSet="https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/4ETYB3SEQOTRLL4UBSD6LOUP4Q.jpg?smart=true&auth=0ccfbf99e04493ffce1175d2d8cf540cc5f06d9ef5c92795445879ac4f0b190f&width=137&height=91 137w, https://www.irishtimes.com/resizer/v2/4ETYB3SEQOTRLL4UBSD6LOUP4Q.jpg?smart=true&auth=0ccfbf99e04493ffce1175d2d8cf540cc5f06d9ef5c92795445879ac4f0b190f&width=274&height=182 274w, 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mes copains and copines to our French readers on this warm-ish, dry-ish Irish afternoon in Dublin. Hello and welcome to the Irish Times rugby blog. John O’Sullivan here, and at no further expense I will be keeping you up to date pre, during, and after Ireland’s seminal Six Nations Championship clash against France at the Aviva Stadium.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOL7X2JQ7JBABIJBAVVCW2X24M","additional_properties":{"_id":"UHESDJRZYVAHVDED6HDANLAYWQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741436722524},"id":"timestamp-67910","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MYYRACSVCBBLPMTI5HYB6UFJUI","additional_properties":{"_id":"SNLTIHSAORCIPHJLZFGW4NZTXU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741436822146},"id":"timestamp-16143","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"IISLRIXMRBHOFAPLLG7XAVUTZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Where to start? Well maybe a quick look at the teams. Mack Hansen is injured (quad), Garry Ringrose is suspended, Jamie Osborne switches to right wing, Hugo Keenan returns at fullback, Finlay Bealham returns to tighthead while captain, Caelan Doris has shrugged off a knee injury to lead the team.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BFI2LIFXNJF77K5MVONP47HTPI","additional_properties":{"_id":"E2BDBQIJ6NC5HHPME4SFKSQL3I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741437159748},"id":"timestamp-53258","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3VPL3QWJMNDXZANCPGOAY7QKRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking of benches, France head coach Fabien Galthié has opted for a 7-1 split with scrumhalf Maxime Lucu the only back listed. Flanker Paul Boudehent has previously played in the centre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A53RZ442SZDJFM2O7ATAXP3BQU","additional_properties":{"_id":"TWXV2YVCCJC5FB5LKM6O4AIH4E"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741437337440},"id":"timestamp-96164","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OLJCM6P2H5GV3C5VJFNCLHT6TM","additional_properties":{"_id":"YQIKUZO2ANCCFHSSVLFDVFVES4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741437698190},"id":"timestamp-19446","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"TOLVL3MCHBEXDPDNX2IC2ETOEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lets have a look at the teams and officials.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ALNJ3OKK2NHLVEKNFW4D72DR5U","additional_properties":{"_id":"YJIKFEVKVNDFBMFCAL437VSG7U"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741438188967},"id":"timestamp-15793","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JB2DOQ47G5DZ7FRM4747CD42NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Fun fact number one courtesy of Ryle Nugent who’s sitting across from me.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSDD6CW3FBCSPM7QJA5QRM2PQ4","additional_properties":{"_id":"RDDR64MBIZFFLEJ64XPSTI5M5A"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741439330120},"id":"timestamp-34551","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7E3GN7RPTFAGNIZHR7W3ISG7JA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Romain Ntamack</b> started all five games in France’s most recent Grand Slam (2022) but only once was in the run-on team since then in a Six Nations match, against Wales, the opening game in the tournament a game in which he was sent off. He’s back today following that suspension, partnering Antoine Dupont for the 29th time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EARIYFE6R5AAHAQS5OYVP6PIFU","additional_properties":{"_id":"WFL6L5ODIRBPLKVI27OET75S2Y"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741439420215},"id":"timestamp-431","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZZGPTTBPDFCHLEFMF37OGB2QOA","additional_properties":{"_id":"QUYEG2IWUBFXZFFX746QLD2FUM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741439450700},"id":"timestamp-67689","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"6CPHAAL2W5GO7MCXL4SRSAJ3UE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley had a look at the two best scrumhalves in the world, Jamison Gibson-Park and Antoine Dupont. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\" target=\"_blank\">Here are his thoughts</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"33BQ2P6MJNEODJLITEVWET46MI","additional_properties":{"_id":"2NTTY3IEKNAE7PLYWA4WPRVLQA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440034878},"id":"timestamp-15776","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZJ7JXFLJNBEF5A27JI4R5V6CTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A word from the captains.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"HAGTHJB2JRAXZNI47K6DXH24AI","additional_properties":{"_id":"GLNTKCU4LZEX7EHPAYS6ZGPJLI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440060110},"id":"timestamp-24549","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"RMWJVXFJZJGGXPLGWZVILJX6IM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Antoine Dupont</b> <b>(France):</b> “Ireland have lost very few matches, they have a very rigorous system that we know. They’re (strong) attacking and defending. They have very clear processes that allow them to win matches against all the teams in the world.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LJ5NBOUJA5GAXCYJLIBKF67L2A","additional_properties":{"_id":"DAU56KSG5JAGXECRNBWEK4T2KA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440342161},"id":"timestamp-44625","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BSAMLTJBFJGRPHCC2QR4GMWXTE","additional_properties":{"_id":"SS57ET2IXBE37M6Q6CKR6FSDR4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440408422},"id":"timestamp-59796","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BJ6IK4B62NAMNOORTWJ26ZEKXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of Ireland’s 50-cappers, Finlay Bealham, gets interviewed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V3QSYVTHI5CRJHFU4OWPD4IR5Q","additional_properties":{"_id":"74W7SDMPAVARNFBHKXBWKJWPUA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741441097104},"id":"timestamp-42611","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"EIIVQXXDNNHQXHDLNWXI4TXGI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the the Six Nations (2000–present), Ireland have played France on 25 occasions,<b> Ireland winning 11, France 12 and two matches have been drawn</b>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BBM42YJNNCNTDFEDJTO3FHYM4","additional_properties":{"_id":"SMHVRAEV3ZAYFIPIQYKVEUKTJQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741441232912},"id":"timestamp-45202","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"U5K3CKX2CJFYRMXDOF6PS4UW6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French Rugby Federation (FFR) estimate that there are 10,000 French supporters in Dublin although walking around the city there seems to be a great deal more. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHCGEDS3NJFKPLVIO6CD73IPQM","additional_properties":{"_id":"JEXFZ2W4HJGIPECORXULKUCYY4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741441342822},"id":"timestamp-77346","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3BVO7SKF75H6XFPEE3CXVVHEJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND INJURY ALERT:</b> James Lowe has just limped down the tunnel. Received treatment to his hip and looks in a lot of discomfort. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DMVECYAFERFQFAL52FMLRX2SXY","additional_properties":{"_id":"OEKWKTNWGRDFPDLL57WJCO3NXE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442144689},"id":"timestamp-22169","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CJHLETDUAZACPHOMYDSNW2KQDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Murray Kinsella caught the on-pitch treatment. Calvin Nash has his bib off and is running on the right wing in the warm-up with Jamie Osborne switching to the left wing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DUZCQCQQFJEQPNJNLJRHJZSKXA","additional_properties":{"_id":"RHAMO6D5GRF43IXOG3TUY7OOWA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442394662},"id":"timestamp-62153","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OLAEXD6FOVHHHGNFHCLGO6WVLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>JAMES LOWE IS OUT. CALVIN NASH IN AND WILL WEAR 11 JERSEY.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"N7WH2JH3O5EOTIDNAP2LLY7HFU","additional_properties":{"_id":"I5BOXX2GJZH5XPI7IWJ4S7XP3I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442444080},"id":"timestamp-97268","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LTMBSGDWRRE5NFX54ZR3OY4KJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowe suffered a back spasm. Ireland’s two first choice wings, Hansen and Lowe miss out. Over to Osborne and Nash. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TCOTVQ6IJDZXFSL52LGBNK5RI","additional_properties":{"_id":"XGYGG3XTUJFENNCHIL6JQMSZGE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442591833},"id":"timestamp-14526","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3REF6RWWWVFWZFT4AMZXDVS37I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The teams are out for the anthems. 10 minutes to kickoff. There will be a minute’s silence for the former Irish international late Dr Bill Mulcahy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2E5J4U7HPZHPJCYEJ7XM47H3C4","additional_properties":{"_id":"ZAVZSZ2CRBFWJLONAEWUDJI5GI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442847566},"id":"timestamp-18070","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FWD6QNFBQJANDOI4LQKFDRXMJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":"H2MPTSM3BNGLLIJ57BHFC2GA7M"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741443367758},"id":"timestamp-15616","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"E5Q23HBMLBF2BN6GPFLK5LWDBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"There’s no doubting the emotion of the occasion for several of the Irish line-up, exemplified by Peter O’Mahony and Cian Healy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IH4QRSJ5D5HBBBUYMAYOSHJSYQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"DES4YCFCNRCJTBVJCPAIZZW26Q"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741443497625},"id":"timestamp-54756","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"C2PCSMQYLRGJDJQQ3X7HIEJSYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>1 min:</b> Great start for Calvin Nash, super chase and take of Jamison Gibson-Park’s high ball. That’s nice width and change-up from Ireland. Nash involved again but the move peters out with a handling error. Bundee Aki receives treatment after receiving a ball to the face.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FG24NY4QXJA6PPCSZ3UMIQTC5E","additional_properties":{"_id":"JI36MX7XHRHZRCH7YCTJZTTJFA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741443969607},"id":"timestamp-8548","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4YESLANHANF7RAO3P5VE7I2X5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>4 mins:</b> First scrum, Ireland put-in. Re-set. Ireland get free-kick for early engagement. Ireland win a penalty after Dupont is penalised for offside. Prendergast kicks into French 22. Tadhg Beirne wins lineout. Dan Sheehan breaks off, grounded short. Dupont offside again and Ireland get a penalty. That’s three penalties and a free kick that France have conceded. Sheehan with a quick tap and Caelan Doris gets held up over the line. Goal-line drop out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5K4ZPOTHVBRNFKNJEFEY7SXGY","additional_properties":{"_id":"2UCNOUH4BRCCXC3KXUV7XVJRNI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444091735},"id":"timestamp-78469","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KC2INZJQIBC7BLCARGMKF5VXJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"7<b> mins: </b>Superbly direct from Ireland, Josh van der Flier and Aki making some serious yards deep inside French 22 but the visitors win a turnover penalty at a ruck. Gregory Alldritt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPQFFJWLW5HIDORYLITJ3KFHKE","additional_properties":{"_id":"MTWUFQ46VNDAVJKRRXXTSQNSSI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444110847},"id":"timestamp-87898","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"YTKPDHH3TRCZNBG7JGLSZGUAGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>9 mins: </b>Superb work by Doris<b> </b>to win a ruck penalty but Sam Prendergast sees his kick from the French 10-metre line hits the left hand upright.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TAYTWWZAFVEFFCR3FHDQATQ2VQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"QSKFH743TNC45KDSZNHCSENQ7Q"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444208282},"id":"timestamp-74532","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WEQ2ZTAG3FHSVP5QEHCUF6LQQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>11 mins: </b>France penalised on the double, one for an arm hook at a lineout and the other for offside after a great break from Keenan. Prendergast kicks into the French 22. Peter O’Mahony off the top to Joe McCarthy on the peel, then Doris, then Sheehan, as Ireland inch towards the French line. Brilliant tackle by Louis Bielle-Biarrey on Keenan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z77GS4K4KNA5RJNSEYMX6PSPXU","additional_properties":{"_id":"J6QZTQNVSFAITNGB7BAPQWFG6I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444388481},"id":"timestamp-17863","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MBXDQXUHKVEK3D63RHGULRN53Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>13 mins: </b>Good aggressive defence from the French forces Ireland to lose possession which culminates with Dupont racing under the Irish posts but there are two French knocks-on in the build-up. A scrum on the French 22 is the upshot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S3ZPBJ44LFEMLI7HSCLGZ2QAYI","additional_properties":{"_id":"4A2BPXDNCBAQNJYUPRL4E3KLTE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444520438},"id":"timestamp-65557","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HEZPZZY5VZDRFA7PEVY77VLVKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>14 mins: </b>Ireland attack the short-side through Jamie Osborne, Ireland continue to pummel away inside the French 22, but a knock-on from Joe McCarthy and then a penalty at a ruck allows France to get into the Irish half for the first time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4XSF7J63JBOHGIMUKES6BN3RM","additional_properties":{"_id":"JWRTPP4GNNFJPMLNRQK4EDBXFM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444669718},"id":"timestamp-1238","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZGA4I6QD4RBUHGUPGAIW4IGFU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>18 mins: </b>Great rip by Osborne but France regain possession only for Doris to win it back. Ireland clear long, France respond in kind before Prendergast finds touch in the French half. Doris is having a huge game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSCTIT6EGFA4TA5ISX636755HA","additional_properties":{"_id":"PURJ3UOT7ZAKHLEWHNOHARVDIQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444822193},"id":"timestamp-41014","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7HSZ3GGCHZELPE4KKMH4S7BY7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>19 mins: </b>France counterattack, Bielle-Biarrey chips and chases but McCarthy’s actions in pulling back a support player, think it was Thomas Ramos, gets him a yellow card. Silly, silly. France kick to the corner. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJKQKRSYXFDLFNIVT7FWHGLG7I","additional_properties":{"_id":"MSCW57NQTBBG3NVYY7VHQV47FI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445007282},"id":"timestamp-1675","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"VZ4EKRHLYNFAXCZXHQQ6WXANIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>TRY: Bielle-Biarrey. </b>France get their maul going forward and two passes down the short-side send Bielle-Biarrey over in the corner. That comes off Ireland having 70 percent possession. The visitors show them how to be ruthless in the scoring zone. Ramos misses the conversion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOBP4WLYAVGRZPFIQREXDBQCCE","additional_properties":{"_id":"EXZZJOGP65AA7B7BRROKXZEWDI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445339379},"id":"timestamp-38510","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BGLFOPMGCVE4XHVQTBQUHFHDOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>27 mins: </b>Ireland under pressure again. Referee Angus Gardner is fighting a running battle with Ireland about wishing to speed up lineout and play on. He’s ignoring any injury issues. Then he wants to play on when Dupont is injured. Dupont is gone. France complaining about the clear-out. Alldritt wants him to look at it again. Gardner says that they have and it’s just a rugby collision/injury.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ORWYAUJIJBBTFNMGFOPHROQ32A","additional_properties":{"_id":"FXZTVMBLFFBTPEV22KDF5SKXDM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445716820},"id":"timestamp-11837","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2RK6WPXMKNDQNE3OIKECEPNVOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>31 mins: </b>Gardner and Doris are having a long dialogue about keeping distance. Alldritt is back to Gardner about the injury that ended Dupont’s participation. The Australian referee is having none of it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KWIRHMBV5BEKTBUBYQBDSSIODQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"CZ37LLZR4JGTLDLJY6V7VAJX4I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445916742},"id":"timestamp-23609","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LBCKHFVTYJGAFO6MFBN2PRN6VQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>33 mins: PRENDERGAST PENALTY: </b>Ireland go on to attack again, get a lucky ricochet from a kick which Nash collects, two rucks later, Henshaw grubbers through on penalty advantage from a tackle off the ball by Paul Boudehent. Prendergast makes no mistake.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TQ2RO66D7JHZDGNA6P23BIIFAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"7XPT7EVY4NADHKCOTO5PKVAG3E"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446074586},"id":"timestamp-11099","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"RPR454L57FF3LL6ICMUDMAZX2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>35 mins: RAMOS PENALTY: </b>That’s a ridiculous decision. France giving a penalty for alleged interference from kickoff by Andrew Porter. He did nothing to obstruct Damian Penaud. The French wing bought that penalty. Ramos makes not mistake. That’ll stick in the Irish gut.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CXCEYQM64BB5JD2COF7TQT55ZI","additional_properties":{"_id":"EI7BM2LLINHGDOB7FSDBY7ZQDM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446193994},"id":"timestamp-30908","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DJYGXGWAEFDZVOZWMNYSHEHHTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>35 mins: </b>That’s another questionable decision. Osborne brilliant on kick-chase, nabs Penaud eight metres from the French line. Pierre-Louis Barassi clears Doris out from the side but France get a scrum, knock-on is the ruling.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QTU6BYXLD5AABGOEKJFJZM7H3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":"THTSI5UNHJGLHPRDPTE5W2SCZE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446375313},"id":"timestamp-1479","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DS6FB2DLBBCIVITTJEWXVXVRYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>40(+1) mins: </b>Ireland are claiming that there was a head shot on Porter. Referee is unmoved rightly pointing out that if there was it will be called. The home side have a penalty on the halfway line. Prendergast thumps it over. Superb strike.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FRREY3EVL5GJ5IWJVFHV3AGA6E","additional_properties":{"_id":"2MUU5NSTLFBSBD572HM4QPBZ44"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446533761},"id":"timestamp-47861","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OPCYK67ZDZCD5FTAFTY34PRX4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Half-time: Ireland 6 France 8</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SRHDY75QW5HGBEWQYOXEUIKF34","additional_properties":{"_id":"HYVXLVECTVHENE6G2PYCSIZMCU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446555817},"id":"timestamp-15613","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KLESXVWG3VGGNKPFD2CDN5BJWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Where to start. Ireland dominate the first 20-minutes only to fall to a sucker punch score on virtually the first occasion that France get into their 22. French wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey scores a try for the seventh time in the last seven Tests. Ireland lost Joe McCarthy to a yellow card for a silly pull back on Thomas Ramos. It was during his absence that France scored, the launchpad a lineout maul, where McCarthy’s power was missed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L32T2ID4QVGHXHK3UUPE6QIZHE","additional_properties":{"_id":"XSARK46VCBCX5MFZSBAK7EQWA4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447196995},"id":"timestamp-32751","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BGODTRHCQVB6TN7GNSOYBNQUNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"U7YELITFEFABTPHR7OM35IHKMY"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447245900},"id":"timestamp-35099","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OOTAY5QHENBGZDALHEMV5IYQ5A","additional_properties":{"_id":"GRLXX45EDZGWPE5B5IOHGK46JE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447327726},"id":"timestamp-55907","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"P5OW4DADU5DNVCK4KXN6FASXTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Looked at the Dupont incident. The French scrumhalf was trying to jackal when Tadhg Beirne, propelled by those behind him, looked to clear out legitimately and drove Dupont backwards at an angle. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZA426WBSO5ASFHXGC6OUAFWFGY","additional_properties":{"_id":"NMJQQNKI3BCMXP66DRDDVAQRZY"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447451297},"id":"timestamp-74268","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"G4V23FIODZBTNC46XVH66HQTY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>42 mins:</b> Ireland bought a penalty there after sustained pressure, Bielle-Biarrey caught offside.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNBWXZIEXZBDRA7U7IVUUZ26D4","additional_properties":{"_id":"VPEKNNAGUZHY5NNSXM6IIIJ2OI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447557335},"id":"timestamp-47714","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4FU77QBT4BEWPJGMFFC5VMKCCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>43 mins: TRY SHEEHAN. </b>Ireland kick the penalty to the corner. Beirne with the take and the Irish maul is well-crafted, moves forward, and then Sheehan breaks off the back and drives through the tackle of Lucu for a fine try. Prendergast lands the touchline conversion, a lovely kick. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"X7S3UNA2FJD57FYFI5UCCVLV7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":"RZQIBFYXCNHBFEMHQSFUQP5TCQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447680807},"id":"timestamp-58939","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DDV34UD6AFHPPC6YRHNCCSGRXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Whatever was said by Ireland coach Simon Easterby has worked nicely. Ireland were bright again from the opening whistle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SA3O7FQKR5BHZATIT4JWRNWKQM","additional_properties":{"_id":"3TYKIY7FD5CEXHYBJ5NGHKZPG4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447784218},"id":"timestamp-87694","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"74SNBBBUYJDZNIHDUFJD4AITOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>46 mins: TRY BOUDEHENT.</b> France on penalty advantage power their way forward, winning each collision and eventually, Ireland run out of numbers and Boudehent forces his way over. The visitors were on penalty advantage. The TMO, Ian Tempest, comes in to draw attention to a head collision. Nash receives a yellow card for his head clash on Barassi. They look at an incident in the build-up but Gardner on review says that a clear-out on O’Mahony was legal. He awards the try and Ramos kicks the conversion. Barassi is off for a HIA. Oscar Jegoum, a flanker is on in the midfield.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BKQ22EOBX5AGJCPOL2VVPPRXNU","additional_properties":{"_id":"JLMSOKUWMJFU3NY645KWVM7IJU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448083259},"id":"timestamp-14146","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"SPPFIZXV25ADXFTJIULJKWQPKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>48 mins: </b>Nash is in the sin bin under review for his yellow card. Decision is in. It’ll remain a yellow. Barassi is undergoing a HIA. Jack Conan is on for O’Mahony who receives a huge ovation in his last game at the Aviva Stadium. Ryan ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNIRFZMGPRCQLJFRS5CR7CSECA","additional_properties":{"_id":"ESF3AODCZBB3BJDFGLBQESKT24"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448368500},"id":"timestamp-62476","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7IRZDCC4BZG3ZOU5GXONNSE3FE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>55 mins: RAMOS PENALTY. </b>A blue tidal wave. France back on the attack and they are within metres of the Irish line when Doris is pinged for playing the nine, Lucu. Alldritt turns to Ramos to kick the penalty and the French fullback duly obliges. Jack Crowley is on for Ireland; he’ll play in the centre. Aki is off. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VR2EZ4M7BEI5MJDKJDLYWZYBM","additional_properties":{"_id":"BFMBQPNV2RFHVGZQO6R5GYSRLE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448596301},"id":"timestamp-4462","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HRMZ5TAKFZAKHCHSE7S2OTWCW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>56 mins: Nash is back on, Ireland are back to 15 players. The damage has been done. </b>James Ryan is on for McCarthy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MSHHBK4AKJHBBP5MNTNWWGEFLA","additional_properties":{"_id":"XY4A3VUG7VGKLBACKLKXZFTX4M"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448711553},"id":"timestamp-81502","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"QC3EXRG2XRGGRFPXVO57MJQHCA","additional_properties":{},"content":" <b>58 mins: TRY JEGOU. </b>The impact of the French bench and Ireland going down to 14 players has resulted in the visitors running riot. They’ve been breathtaking in the rugby they’ve played.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OTNZ4F43KZGYJC73Y4CVJNDK64","additional_properties":{"_id":"7QOKVQC3IBADRCVMTEQ5MA4YU4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448849743},"id":"timestamp-91302","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2LOPJH5Q3BBP3GXZDZWNI43YLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>France have scored 24 points in second half 12 minutes and claimed a four try bonus point. </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ACT4WIGIF5HRTPEW332LM2OXJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":"7ZQFPK5CYJDGTF7ES6Y773NTMM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448917709},"id":"timestamp-65418","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"6Y4BGFOIXZBNXCNODOJBIRR734","additional_properties":{},"content":"France have scored 29-points from seven visits to the Ireland 22. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSCLKXQBLZGZHIKPVHSVC7YNQY","additional_properties":{"_id":"EMLVXMHIURDYPL34LLNNLWH7IM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449100992},"id":"timestamp-81384","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ESR57UAV3BGO7O2SW6LXVNDRYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>64 mins:</b> <b>RAMOS PENALTY</b>: Doris goes off for a HIA. Van der Flier back on. Prendergast on a wrap around but he tries to take the space and gets collared by Jegou. The pass might have been the better option there. France are utterly dominant. Ireland penalised again at a ruck. Ramos points at the points.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QE7MPBLWC5DXPKD7AHWWYLIBIM","additional_properties":{"_id":"TBHYWANCYZE4HJ7RAJ7JFB26SU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449327950},"id":"timestamp-19047","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WZLCSFD3RFEZHBD2LPFZSMIQYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>68 mins: </b>Cian Healy, Rob Herring and Conor Murray are on for Porter, Sheehan and Gibson-Park.<b> </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQIO6QCYRJG43LSBXKGAWQNBVY","additional_properties":{"_id":"2LGYZKYE3FH4XPBDMBNV2U2ACE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449530742},"id":"timestamp-66976","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"D2LKZIHO5ZA6LGCXK6URKJOI6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>69 mins: </b>Ireland with a great try scoring chance but Robbie Henshaw steps back inside rather than looking at the man outside. Conor Murray then gets over the line but replacement prop Cyril Baille gets underneath him and denies him a try. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VRXNADF4TZHLHBPYCHPJ7QOTCM","additional_properties":{"_id":"DEJ5WNH535EVPK5CTLGNDUQZYA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449696884},"id":"timestamp-86374","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WNEQ2HGO3FAR3C3CTUOD7ZLNLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>72 mins: </b>Prendergast with a couple of chips through that he might like over again but Ireland are at least showing character. There accuracy though in the French 22 is seriously lacking. Right on cue Prendergast’s pass six metres from the French line was intercepted by Ramos and he released Penaud who races 75 metres to score under the posts. Ramos converts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZXRFGEUWVE43FPKOKYVEC3GBQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"RCIW2GQU6NHO7BBLWMTOH6UGQQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449953057},"id":"timestamp-93227","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HZGRAEVKANFOJCR7F567GY3Y5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>77 mins: TRY HEALY. </b>In his 137th game for Ireland and the final one at the Aviva Stadium, grabs a try. It’s a lovely personal moment. Prendergast converts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6RYF5F6WIJB2LLBXTQCKQXAOAE","additional_properties":{"_id":"PJJUVYPPUVG5RFA7455JWPUYQM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741450177609},"id":"timestamp-23645","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"V24GVNXITVCH7GCZT72YLZ376Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>80(+1) CONAN TRY. </b>Prendergast with a quick tap penalty and Conan grabs a second Irish try in three minutes. Prendergast lands the conversion but it’s nothing more than window dressing on the scoreboard. France were stunning for half an hour in the second half, played glorious rugby and were worthy winners. Ireland can and will have no complaints. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RQFBCMFEFBAHBZMTQHCWV5YEY","additional_properties":{"_id":"QXPBUQU2XBGGFIRBJRRVJFH2VY"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741450375623},"id":"timestamp-60089","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LSTQNV4S3ZHZTB4FND6PEQKB34","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Fulltime: Ireland 27 France 42</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LTFG5YN2CFCXDOAPYFCWQMWSVM","additional_properties":{"_id":"LIIYUMEYUVFZTL6OUHSUMBVNFQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741450741843},"id":"timestamp-14290","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I33XSZ3JQZEFPJPOS7POUGS5KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That was a chastening afternoon for Ireland, the first in a very long time. Forget about the late salvo that yielded 14-points and tries for replacements Cian Healy and Jack Conan. It won’t console players of Irish supporters. The home side received a lesson today in how to ruthlessly finish off opportunities. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PWL4JAVG7ZFRBISVMNGJ7PVRGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"22G6L6E5VBFFLFGB3TUHBG5RC4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741451400504},"id":"timestamp-78408","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"C3FGBV6MFJFMND7NHNPTDGOWUE","additional_properties":{"_id":"AH5W6334FFCU5LAXBBCRKGWMMA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741451426329},"id":"timestamp-55434","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OK7IUCOLLFFPRB5VSG2MEBBWG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Seems appropriate","type":"text"},{"_id":"7BD2N3E6F5E27BR2U3BFVP2DBI","additional_properties":{"_id":"JAA27DMH2ZDULDAWRNS5PATY6U"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452046882},"id":"timestamp-67971","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"THBWEIXITNGHFA4SVW4TX5V5QM","additional_properties":{"_id":"2CKFHQEQZBHWRFSJBGPUAMYXP4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452181293},"id":"timestamp-13098","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"GQABPCVMPNHH7IN56WNWOTVJII","additional_properties":{},"content":"A look at Dan Sheehan’s try.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJ2FQ44JOVDW7LWY4UICWLBKIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"NJR6MMA6IVFGTBHB4IXZRYLQSU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452697813},"id":"timestamp-99024","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HSMCAQYGOBE6TKD427AVRGFBEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Johnny Watterson’s player ratings are in, three Irish players get seven, the highest mark, one of which is captain, Caelan Doris. Johnny wrote: “The lineout worked and he was a good Irish option there. Made some big tackles, notably on Thomas Ramos in the first half, and ground away in the engine room.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YOH4B6UT3BE5VL3PEQI7OHQ45Q","additional_properties":{"_id":"23HHL5Q65VHVZEEPAEYY5IVU2U"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452790716},"id":"timestamp-93567","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3WDAGJJCDFDURESXB3LJN6N3YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley’s match report is in. He wrote: “France put Ireland to the sword and utterly obliterated hopes of a Grand Slam, also ending any realistic designs on a historic three-peat next weekend. What’s more, France did so despite losing their talisman early in the piece, so shredding any notion that they might be overly dependent on Antoine Dupont.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PNBJ77PK5BCNFKAZHI2PTCJBQQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"SZMPPHW4INCPZD7NS3CUARWR4E"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741453750654},"id":"timestamp-79417","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FRLTOBL4RBBA3LYTQSTNLQWIZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"What about the lies, damn lies and statistics. Well","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHW6CRSOCFD4FAQQL4IMCLRNYU","additional_properties":{"_id":"7EEGWZFQ6RGOPOQVZ4ALA5L77I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741454344637},"id":"timestamp-14194","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"IVZH2EBX35CARMLYOKRGQ4L2GM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>STATE OF THE NATION</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"APUV5GSOC5E5ZOYGZDWQUENXRE","additional_properties":{"_id":"EB63A5VF3BDNJD47D56IMIJSYE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741455383069},"id":"timestamp-65316","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7NZJF5PI3JER7EPHKJIMGD5HYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland head coach Simon Easterby: </b>“Disappointing, obviously. We felt like when we went in at half-time 8-6 down, we were well in the game and we were confident that if we started well, which we did in the second half, that we could kick on and make them pay in terms of our fitness and our ability to go well in the second half, which we’ve done in previous games in the tournament.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QOMS7Z4PIFBLXPKD4I2IDM3ONU","additional_properties":{"_id":"WYC7Z22B2BGAJGUKVGCPK22T5Q"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741455778930},"id":"timestamp-48013","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZL4J3IUHKRAPVJXT6EZZFCVVKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the incident that saw Dupont suffer a knee injury Easterby said: “I think it’s just a rugby incident where Tadhg (Beirne) cleans out someone in front of Antoine Dupont and he gets hit on the back of that. This happens. We definitely have moved away and players have a real awareness now of cleaning out on the lower limb of the player, which would create that type of injury that might happen today, but that wasn’t the case. 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From here the Kilmallock forward burst through, batting into the net.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BABX5AXNENHWJKJMKNCAWOO5CU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Credit to Galway, who gave themselves a fighting chance thanks to Cooney’s free-taking efforts, Micheál Donoghue’s side kept plugging away, scoring three points to no response after the team had exchanged points following O’Brien’s goal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SXWBNYV2GJFYFAC5YJJCAHFCCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But Limerick found their rhythm once again, Colin Coughlan, Barry Nash and Gillane knocking over three points to put them seven ahead at the break.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J3RNJUEICND47A7QOSFC2BT63Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"In what was arguably a poor half of hurling by both side’s standards, each racking up nine wides in the opening half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3U3GOWYEJGDBPPJG7LIWE4SJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kiely, who opted to start with eight of the starting XV that lost out to Cork in last year’s All-Ireland SHC semi-final, will have been happy with an opening-half spread of eight different scorers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IT5Z22ZEUZAMZC5ERBDVAUE4ZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Galway, who were in search of a fourth successive league win, made three changes from the side that defeated Wexford last weekend, Donoghue giving the nod to Shane Morgan, Kevin Cooney and Conor Cooney.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJDYW6FJSJFFRORWKNSXMJRVLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"After the restart, early points from Cian Lynch and Aidan O’Connor, either side of Conor Cooney’s fourth free of the evening, had Limerick 1-14 to 0-9 up inside five minutes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYSGJXPCZVFG3ILMYBFGQJSF2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Moments later, a Brian Concannon effort on goal was superbly saved by Shane Dowling.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3NEDKDE656OEKP5IJVFRDA4JX4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"HPHIVIMYDFALXBYIZ6JPPAEUL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Galway’s uphill task was made even more difficult a minute later when the Tribesmen were reduced to 14 after Conor Cooney received a second yellow card for a challenge on Barry Murphy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TXB4N4UWHNGRTDGLCQA4R3LOEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"O’Neill and O’Connor further added to Galway’s woes as Limerick eased into an eight-point lead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XVHKDZJOXNATNFZ7XGGM3VUKV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In an added bonus to Limerick’s championship hopes, Peter Casey was introduced as a 48th-minute substitute, his first appearance for the Treaty county since suffering a broken ankle against Tipperary last April.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZE3JEPU7J5ELNGTG56PBRPLEMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Much to the delight of the home support, the Na Piarsaigh man slotted over a well-taken point just two minutes after taking to the field.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P3XKJLG6PBG5ZM7I2BPJMNCHTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite not scoring from play for a 15-minute spell as the game approached the final whistle, Limerick sealed a comfortable win with 10 of their starting 15 getting on the scoresheet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EHVEED3FURCSZKKELWHCF3X3YU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7V7DNB7LCJBZHCSYT4RKCL7XL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Limerick face a trip to Kilkenny next weekend before welcoming Wexford to the Gaelic Grounds, while Galway will need a win away to Cork if they are to have any chance of reaching this year’s league final.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SK5B6MZPQFHBJOPPJ3ZST4NZMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>LIMERICK: </b>S Dowling; S Finn, M Casey, B Murphy; C Coughlan (0-01), K Hayes (0-01), B Nash (0-02); A English (0-01), W O’Donoghue; C O’Neill (0-04), C Lynch (capt) (0-01), T Morrissey (0-02); A Gillane (0-6, 4f) S O’Brien (1-03), A O’Connor (0-04).","type":"text"},{"_id":"XC4UZFPYIRE4NNM4YBU2GUWRMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Subs:</b> V Harrington for Casey (9 mins, inj); P Casey (0-01) for Lynch (48); E Hurley for Hayes (50); D Reidy (0-01) for O’Donoghue (53); G Hegarty for O’Connor (57); E Stokes for English (66).","type":"text"},{"_id":"OIZSWQCT5JFRDI4J5MFL6LS4HQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>GALWAY:</b> D Fahy; S Morgan, F Burke, D Morrissey; P Mannon, G Lee (0-01), M Garvey; C Fahy, T Monagan (0-01); K Cooney, T Killeen (0-01), D Burke; C Whelan (capt), C Cooney (0-06; 3f, 1′65), A Burns.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJVJB33OH5H4LL62AESGLEAIKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Subs:</b> B Concannon (0-01) for Burns (h-t); C Mannion (0-07, 6f) for Burke (44 mins); S Linnane (0-01) for Whelan (48); J Cooney for K Cooney (49); TJ Brennan for Morgan (66).","type":"text"},{"_id":"7K3Q4ZNDSRHM5A6RZ7I7K2FCKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee: </b>J Owens (Wexford).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"David Byrne"}]},"description":{"basic":"Treaty men put last week’s defeat behind them with 12-point victory at the Gaelic Grounds"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T21:54:11.734Z","headlines":{"basic":"Limerick bounce back with comfortable win over 14-man Galway","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SLKSQEUNCABMQELCWLC4TLCT6Q","auth":{"1":"b414f1a50119012f44ed9d48ecf5b65eb47512dffb88f7767ba3acba4810dfa1"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SLKSQEUNCABMQELCWLC4TLCT6Q.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/limerick-bounce-back-with-comfortable-win-over-14-man-galway/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"G4ZHG5H6WVBRNETWOL3E57WHJU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":378,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/5ab17df6-92c5-4f49-9f52-1ca9d2e1165f/versions/1741465306/media/022f1ae456d26feb81d402d369a001b7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/08/irelands-orla-comerford-wins-60m-event-at-european-indoor-championships/","content_elements":[{"_id":"ZLGZIN5NE5DKBKF3EAIQC5D4PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Some Irish medal hopes may have thinned out over the opening three days, but <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mark-english/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mark-english/\">Mark English</a> has put himself back in contention to win a fifth European medal in making the 800m final in Apeldoorn, calling on all his maturity and experience in the process.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LKVQMHU76RFC5DT6YKPM5DNWPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 31-year-old won silver at the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-indoor-championships/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-indoor-championships/\">European Indoor Championships</a> back in 2015, and bronze in 2019 – also winning two outdoor bronze medals over 800m – and goes into Sunday’s final running as well if not better than ever.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C44X7EDSLRD7RNVJCOKLZNICCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"With only the top three from the two semi-finals progressing, there was little room for error in the eight-man race. That made for a close race, English crucially getting himself into third place after the first lap, holding that spot until the bell.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q5ZUHIYGMJDEPKOCQFDTABBUAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He did drop back to fourth down the backstretch, before calmly coming through on the inside to nail third, Eliott Crestan from Belgium winning in 1:45.84, Samuel Chapple from the Netherlands second in 1:45.86 and English clocking 1:45.89.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UCUEQ3LNKFE6BPW5CCIVCHSBS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"After lowering his Irish record to 1:45.15 last month, breaking 1:46 indoors for the first time, that was still one of the fastest times of his career, the qualified doctor from Donegal clearly satisfied with his effort.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K3OXE4WSEVCMJNZLT22JU3DMOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“A massive weight off the shoulders,” English admitted. “As I said yesterday, it’s a new day today, and it will be a new day tomorrow.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MOYZOTQXWJGFDEIM6DA2T7HHGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“My plan was to try to be in contention for as much of it as possible, I feel like I did that. I doesn’t get any easier, 10 years later, everything gets tougher, but I’ll go into it with a plan, try to execute that plan as best I can.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7DK6D5665FTBNLEJ3YBF6CUYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sunday’s final is set for 4.27pm Irish time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DX74IDYOBDS7HWZDZOBFPXTHQA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"VZXY6GIGGNHHDLY7Z5CQBDSZ4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cian McPhillips went in the first semi-final, the 22-year-old from Longford reinstated after being tripped in his heat. Despite putting himself in contention to also qualify, holding second place after 200m, he ended up seventh in 1:47.40.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XI4HJVL32BBDPHJALSGO2VBNYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bori Akinola was back inside the Omnisport Arena after qualifying from his 60m heat earlier on Saturday, where the 23-year-old had finished second in 6.66 seconds after an excellent start.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWA4W3DZ75CNBIQIM5GAVZF4EM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Racing in the second of three semi-finals, Akinola started well again, but was unable to secure one of the top-two automatic final spots. Britain’s Andy Robertson won in 6.56 seconds, Akinola fourth in 6.63, just outside his best of 6.61","type":"text"},{"_id":"TWBJD5D32ZFJTHHDV4ENEDEAZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ll definitely take the positives from that,” he said, Apeldoorn being his first individual senior championships. “And I’m really looking forward to the outdoor season.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CGROOVLL7BCQ7DOOBCLPCU5A74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier on Saturday, Sarah Healy also made certain of her place in the final of the 3,000m, winning her heat with ease and utter assurance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CPTZJ7MB7BDV3CWIT6QZMXWRHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Healy had come to Apeldoorn in the form of her young life, ranked second in Europe this season over the distance having just turned 24. She has all the necessary experience to challenge for a top-three finish in Sunday’s final showdown (4.36pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"IRCQZNILSZCINHCD2UN3Z3TAJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Running in the first of two heats, Healy kept herself at the front of the race throughout, moving in front on the last lap and winning in 8:55.35, all while expending the minimal amount of effort. There was no such joy for Jodie McCann, who finished the second heat in 10th place in 9:18.73.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YI6DRMQZCJQXJYHU2DFUPYGNNA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"RAWGL5OU7RBLJLQW6NM6MPTPPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m definitely relieved to qualify safely,” said Healy. “I feel like that as far as heats go it wasn’t too messy or stressful. I’ve never done a 3,000m heat before but I think it’s a little bit less stressful than a 1,500m heat, you have a bit more time to sort yourself out ... It felt good.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7E7BYPAXBCK3MMN5CTBKRNNJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Britain’s Melissa Courtney-Bryant, the fastest European this season, won that second heat in 9:08.19, and there are plenty of other threats too, including Salome Afonso from Portugal, who has placed second in the 1,500m.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CMK265X6DVGWJMOOCKUW2Q4D2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Andrew Coscoran also came to Apeldoorn ranked third in the men’s 3,000m, after also breaking the national record, and making Sunday’s final (3.50pm Irish time) was the very least of his ambitions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X6FOJVUYPFCQTIS2FZXQTL2IXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Things were a little trickier here, still Coscoran kept his head as the pace heated up over the closing laps, with Jakob Ingebrigtsen doing what he always does in qualifying when coming from the back to the front. The Norwegian star won in 7:55.32 and is well on course to complete a third 1,500m/3,000m double.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QDDY5LCPCVFSRCVYJEGZFYZZAM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Coscoran held on for fifth in 7:56.37, the top six all sure of advancing, and the race for second and third will certainly be tight. Coscoran has given himself a chance and that’s plenty good for now. “I’m really looking forward to the final tomorrow, I’m very confident coming into it,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GHQSKJIE25CQZLJ42WU3LW2F7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the first heat, James Gormley placed eighth in 7:53.27, that race won by Britain’s George Mills in 7:50.87.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DH4RZPNV373HDELTR2IU7TCZ7A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4MO5CI4XAFGF5B6MED7FYE4O3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Also in the morning session, Orla Comerford made the most of the new inclusion of a mixed Para Athletics event at the European Indoor Championships in the Netherlands in winning the 60m in terrific style, her time of 7.63 seconds just outside her lifetime best.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKDGDF3NTNESVIGYY2ISLQLYXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 27-year-old, who won bronze in the T13 100m at the Paris Paralympics, dominated the race from the gun. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DNFGF3J6SBDZBKSOECN77HVSUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This opportunity only came four weeks ago, and I started back late after Paris, so when the chance came around, we had to take it,” she said, her time just short of her lifetime best of 7.62. “It’s huge for Para Athletics to be here, Para Athletics is athletics, and athletics fans understand it. This is the first year they’ve had para races involved in the championships, and hopefully it will grow.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"36IEKFJRNVC7BI3DXMEDWNOWGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kate O’Connor is also in action in Sunday’s closing sessions, ranked second among the entries in the women’s pentathlon.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"English clocks 1:45.89 to reach Sunday’s final"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T20:21:43.258Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland’s Mark English qualifies for 800m final at European Indoor 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3 [Núñez 51, Salah 54 pen, 88 pen] Southampton 1 [Smallbone 45+1]","type":"header"},{"_id":"E3GCSZW7WBEI7NLTO56EEUNNOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liverpool-fc\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liverpool-fc\">Liverpool</a> recovered from a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/champions-league\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/champions-league\">Champions League</a> hangover which threatened to produce the shock of the season to beat <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/southampton-fc\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/southampton-fc\">Southampton</a> 3-1 and extend their lead at the top of the Premier League table to 16 points.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R55G72QSUFBTTA6GTO5MDF6OIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"At this stage of the season, a week is a long time in football but in the space of a few days, goalkeeper Alisson Becker went from hero to zero.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJNCMA623BAGTPAF6HDDOXOXGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"After his self-proclaimed best performance of his career against Paris St Germain on Wednesday, the Brazil international’s first-half mistake allowed Ireland international Will Smallbone to put one of the worst teams in top-flight history ahead at Anfield.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KRX23TWU6FHBXBEHBQ2EKCF5GE","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was no less than the hosts deserved after a lacklustre 45 minutes, which had the usually relaxed Virgil van Dijk berating his team-mates for their lack of energy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"22XN34ISGFHYFJ4QH6S7V7CD3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Head coach Arne Slot – who was serving the final game of his touchline suspension in the Main Stand – saw it and, uncharacteristically, responded with three interval substitutions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAGPGQNIMBCO5HUAMQV5FBSQJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wednesday’s match-winner Harvey Elliott, Andy Robertson and Alexis Mac Allister made an immediate difference as the tempo increased with Luis Díaz, who was lucky to escape the half-time cull after a lethargic display, also positively impacted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LTCWJROWVNHQ7NXWOTHRW22JOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"With one of his first touches, Elliott forced the first save out of Aaron Ramsdale, with Robertson flicking an effort wide from a half-cleared corner.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NX27WYHWRJEVRF4KW7I5DTFZRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was the spark Liverpool needed and they turned the game around in the space of five minutes against the bottom side.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YV4ZLZXTMNC2POKKIR6WVW5RYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Díaz, showing a drive previously lacking, muscled his way past Kyle Walker-Peters to the byline and cut the ball back for Darwin Núñez to divert in first time from five yards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJTBGBOHX5HO7M4CMS6EXVH56I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Uruguay international, making his first league start since St Stephen’s Day, then won a 54th-minute penalty after he was brought down by Smallbone after Ramsdale parried Díaz’s shot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XR6VJKMEDFFLTCR2CVS4ZWA5SY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Anfield fell silent but when Mohamed Salah stroked home the resulting spot-kick for his 31st goal of the season, it erupted again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GKBOL2LPFNCB3AROLEGVWRM5SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"That equalled Ian Rush’s club record of 10 league goals against Saints and now only the Welshman and Roger Hunt have more Liverpool goals than the Egypt international’s 242.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QQFKM53F4JC2BLF4T4XTF7T4VQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was the 19th-successive home game they had scored at least two, equalling Sunderland’s top-flight record from 1935.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBZVGZTGPRDYXP2NQGZFVRQKJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yukinari Sugawara’s handball in trying to fend off Díaz saw Salah dispatch his second penalty for his 184th Premier League goal, drawing level with Manchester City’s Sergio Agüero in joint-fifth on the all-time list.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WIHG2JH76NCZVE7PPJYHCUAF7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nottingham Forest 1 [Hudson-Odoi 83] Manchester City 0","type":"header"},{"_id":"J32BS7BPJFAWDFFBBXXJDRVYYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Callum Hudson-Odoi’s late goal saw <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/nottingham-forest\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/nottingham-forest\">Nottingham Forest</a> take a huge step towards Champions League qualification with a 1-0 win over <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/manchester-city\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/manchester-city\">Manchester City</a>, who are now looking over their shoulder.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3UEGLTKF5NE4VEKMBSGWKJFQDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hudson-Odoi caught Ederson out at the near post in the 82nd minute at the City Ground to provide a new highlight in a memorable campaign for Nuno Espirito Santo’s men.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SLXLZ43BSJEX7HNHOYF2PU4DDQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"They consolidated their position in third with 10 games to go, four points ahead of City in fourth and five ahead of Chelsea in fifth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OCKGY5Y63REUBNUDUVLB4Q7PVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"And the manner of their victory will surely give Forest huge belief they can finish the job and qualify for the Champions League in just their third season back in the top flight.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXC475ILPBE3VGKCPYBEBYMGDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"City’s own European qualification hopes are very much up in the air as they fell to a ninth league defeat, the most since 2019/20, and they could be out of the top four after the weekend’s action.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PNTCYASPRNELBB4RQKHCX3L7JE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Brentford 0 Aston Villa 1 [Watkins 49]","type":"header"},{"_id":"42LNVMW4OVEBZO6IVCBCJBGBBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ollie Watkins returned to haunt former club <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/brentford-fc\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/brentford-fc\">Brentford</a> with the decisive strike as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aston-villa\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/aston-villa\">Aston Villa</a> recorded a 1-0 win at the Gtech Community Stadium.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JZCESZ433VGDNH35V64KOZZVE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The England striker, who left west London in 2020, was subjected to jeers by the home fans as his clinical finish saw Villa continue their hunt for European qualification.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FIJIUIPPY5EKPGDL3HY6Q2AD2A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Villa, in seventh, now sit two points off fourth-place Manchester City.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3X63MWSN55DWXLYPWQBEXKM7JI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Brighton 2 [Van Hecke 41, João Pedro 90+8 pen] Fulham 1 [Jimenez 35]","type":"header"},{"_id":"HR22RBJ2RRCMXGRRY2Q6EK7POA","additional_properties":{},"content":"João Pedro scored a stoppage-time penalty as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/brighton-and-hove-albion\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/brighton-and-hove-albion\">Brighton</a> finally beat <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fulham-fc\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/fulham-fc\">Fulham </a>in the Premier League at the 10th attempt, securing a 2-1 win.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X232EIWD5RFDRGM7EGCBVTBDKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Albion looked set to be frustrated by the Cottagers once again, having never beaten them in nine previous attempts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7HTFOMQB3FCY3KSBCL4KSYNRZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"But Pedro’s spot-kick at the death settled the battle of the European hopefuls in Brighton’s favour and moved them up to sixth, just a point behind Manchester City in fourth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2CQSXVMFBAH5M72WHAGRSPPKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Raúl Jiménez’s opener for Fulham had earlier been cancelled out by Jan Paul van Hecke’s towering header in the first half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"52KOKG5F7BH3JKGXGL2W6XPRPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Crystal Palace 1 [Sarr 82] Ipswich Town 0","type":"header"},{"_id":"CR5SXOO22RE75FOPZIHYKZOHAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ismaila Sarr scored a late winner in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/crystal-palace\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/crystal-palace\">Crystal Palace</a>’s 1-0 victory at Selhurst Park to deny relegation-battling <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ipswich-town\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ipswich-town\">Ipswich</a> a much-needed point.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DZ2FD7I3WBFIRIWPVG7OM7GZAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"England boss Thomas Tuchel paid another visit to the Eagles’ south London home, but it was a far less entertaining encounter than their 4-1 victory over Aston Villa on his last trip.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHVNVET2I5AFDFIUFJNI75FUBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The contest picked up in the second half, though neither side was able to make the most of their chances.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YVFTAPYEINCRJCPFZ6DOZNNFPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Just as it looked like the visitors might be able to cling on and share the spoils, Sarr secured all three points for Palace eight minutes from time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43AQFT7ARBCSHF4RRD5U34FAYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"KZVPTETNWZAFDDT6CQAHNUP6K4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKSTWSE4YZAFFJFQIPVEIFNZEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YUP34TZFE5HWVLKSIVKLPVZT7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Forest cut City down to size to boost Champions League qualification hopes; Watkins secures win for Villa against former side Brentford"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T19:46:48.542Z","headlines":{"basic":"Liverpool extend lead to 16 points at top after comeback win over Southampton","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2CAKIMFGXHZQO4IZTIYIPF7NFM","auth":{"1":"1e5e7aedda5554637b62d990e90bdb84d53a3252758d240666dc4ab523c039a9"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2CAKIMFGXHZQO4IZTIYIPF7NFM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/liverpool-extend-lead-to-16-points-at-top-after-comeback-win-over-southampton/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"Z2H62YM6KVD2TD3B22EGC2N3RQ","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-v-france-live-updates-from-crunch-six-nations-clash-at-the-aviva/","content_elements":[{"_id":"EEZWBQC6HFGBBFRRE3UV3OYULE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741434326732},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741435200000},"id":"timestamp-23159","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"C5IVMYE4SJAYDFBMFBA7OV3UFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Salut mes copains and copines to our French readers on this warm-ish, dry-ish Irish afternoon in Dublin. Hello and welcome to the Irish Times rugby blog. John O’Sullivan here, and at no further expense I will be keeping you up to date pre, during, and after Ireland’s seminal Six Nations Championship clash against France at the Aviva Stadium.","type":"text"},{"_id":"COZQQX37WFCXXIRM2LUPGFGD4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s a mouthwatering clash between two sides that have occupied to the top two placings in the tournament for the past two campaigns. Indeed, France have finished second in four of the last five stagings. The French finished runners up to England in 2020, runners-up to Wales in 2021, won the Grand Chelem – that’s my bilingual nod – in 2022, second to Ireland in 2023, second to Ireland in 2024.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHVJD46WPFG47POGF42TR7OKCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Johnny Watterson will be evaluating the Ireland players. He’s got new red and green pens. Gerry Thornley’s match report will be available shortly after the game. Malachy Clerkin will be man-marking Antoine Dupont with a rigour of which the Ireland team would be proud. There is a huge French presence around the Ballsbridge area and the Marseillaise was belted out by a group of 30 as they walked down Lansdowne Road. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOL7X2JQ7JBABIJBAVVCW2X24M","additional_properties":{"_id":"UHESDJRZYVAHVDED6HDANLAYWQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741436722524},"id":"timestamp-67910","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JXTM3LSHK5GGLHWZP3DAM4LO7Q","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"MYYRACSVCBBLPMTI5HYB6UFJUI","additional_properties":{"_id":"SNLTIHSAORCIPHJLZFGW4NZTXU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741436822146},"id":"timestamp-16143","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"IISLRIXMRBHOFAPLLG7XAVUTZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Where to start? Well maybe a quick look at the teams. Mack Hansen is injured (quad), Garry Ringrose is suspended, Jamie Osborne switches to right wing, Hugo Keenan returns at fullback, Finlay Bealham returns to tighthead while captain, Caelan Doris has shrugged off a knee injury to lead the team.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NKK4A7MM75FJBJGEU7PZL2S7LM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rob Herring is back on the bench, Jack Conan has recovered from a back injury, while Ireland have opted for a six-two split on the bench with Conor Murray and Jack Crowley the backline cover.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BFI2LIFXNJF77K5MVONP47HTPI","additional_properties":{"_id":"E2BDBQIJ6NC5HHPME4SFKSQL3I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741437159748},"id":"timestamp-53258","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3VPL3QWJMNDXZANCPGOAY7QKRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking of benches, France head coach Fabien Galthié has opted for a 7-1 split with scrumhalf Maxime Lucu the only back listed. Flanker Paul Boudehent has previously played in the centre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ZY2N5WVRFDT3JL54NQAUWC3P4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Springboks were pioneers of this strategy, including employing it against Ireland in the World Cup, which Andy Farrell’s side won, again in the final itself and most recently against Scotland in November. France opted for this alignment in the victory over Italy last time out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A53RZ442SZDJFM2O7ATAXP3BQU","additional_properties":{"_id":"TWXV2YVCCJC5FB5LKM6O4AIH4E"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741437337440},"id":"timestamp-96164","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BYN5H2DJ65XCLWAMFTWSBANFEA","additional_properties":{"_id":"HO7YIJFZL5A7LJZALDEZ46352Q"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"OLJCM6P2H5GV3C5VJFNCLHT6TM","additional_properties":{"_id":"YQIKUZO2ANCCFHSSVLFDVFVES4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741437698190},"id":"timestamp-19446","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"TOLVL3MCHBEXDPDNX2IC2ETOEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lets have a look at the teams and officials.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4GAAE7CJ2VCJ3C2JIYLNEAS5LE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND: </b>Hugo Keenan (UCD RFC/Leinster); Jamie Osborne (Naas RFC/Leinster), Robbie Henshaw (Buccaneers RFC/Leinster), Bundee Aki (Galwegians RFC/Connacht), James Lowe (Leinster); Sam Prendergast (Lansdowne FC/Leinster), Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster); Andrew Porter (UCD RFC/Leinster), Dan Sheehan (Lansdowne FC/Leinster), Finlay Bealham (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht), Joe McCarthy (Dublin University FC/Leinster), Tadhg Beirne (Lansdowne FC/Munster), Peter O’Mahony (Cork Constitution FC/Munster), Josh van der Flier (UCD RFC/Leinster), Caelan Doris (St. Mary’s College RFC/Leinster) (capt).","type":"text"},{"_id":"B2QRXTGCBRDWRL2HG3UDNC6E4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>Replacements: </b></i>Rob Herring (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster), Cian Healy (Clontarf FC/Leinster), Thomas Clarkson (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster), James Ryan (UCD RFC/Leinster), Jack Conan (Old Belvedere RFC/Leinster), Ryan Baird (Dublin University FC/Leinster), Conor Murray (Garryowen FC/Munster), Jack Crowley (Cork Constitution FC/Munster).","type":"text"},{"_id":"LGS6XZITYZDKBG6IZXJLEMKGGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>FRANCE: </b>Thomas Ramos (Toulouse); Damian Penaud (Bordeaux-Bègles), Pierre-Louis Barassi (Toulouse), Yoram Moefana (Bordeaux-Bègles), Louis Bielle-Biarrey (Bordeaux-Bègles); Romain Ntamack (Toulouse), Antoine Dupont (Toulouse) (capt); Jean-Baptiste Gros (Toulon), Peato Mauvaka (Toulouse), Uini Atonio (La Rochelle), Thibaud Flament (Toulouse), Mickaël Guillard (Lyon), Francois Cros (Toulouse), Paul Boudehent (La Rochelle), Grégory Alldritt (La Rochelle).","type":"text"},{"_id":"4MB4XWFHRRHPXG2PXRSZ5ZIPXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>Replacements:</b></i> Julien Marchand (Toulouse), Cyril Baille (Toulouse), Dorian Aldegheri (Toulouse), Emmanuel Meafou (Toulouse), Hugo Auradou (Pau), Oscar Jegou (La Rochelle), Anthony Jelonch (Toulouse), Maxime Lucu (Bordeaux-Bègles).","type":"text"},{"_id":"2U3GASLO5BE6BN5WAZVDJ44FO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> Angus Gardner (Australia) ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EMZCH6BZ3RFE7GKF5RXSOJAGLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>Assistant Referees:</b></i><b> </b>Matthew Carley, Christophe Ridley (both England) ","type":"text"},{"_id":"56F2J5APRNAOBKF6SW5IA7PN7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>TMO:</b></i><b> </b>Ian Tempest (England) ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H5HMI3DH2VA27ICSMQ7ZQZ6III","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>FPRO:</b></i><b> </b>Andrew Jackson (England)","type":"text"},{"_id":"ALNJ3OKK2NHLVEKNFW4D72DR5U","additional_properties":{"_id":"YJIKFEVKVNDFBMFCAL437VSG7U"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741438188967},"id":"timestamp-15793","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JB2DOQ47G5DZ7FRM4747CD42NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Fun fact number one courtesy of Ryle Nugent who’s sitting across from me.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AXR5QT4JRRETPJXTZFYKNJGE2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland have trailed twice in this season’s Six Nations at half-time, against Wales and England and came back to win both games. If they were to trail against France at the interval this afternoon and win the game, it is the first time to accomplish that in Dublin since 1928.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKQANP7WNR6DLQQMIZ4EKJQYKY","additional_properties":{"_id":"2WWKYEA44REX3IB55TKG4XM63I"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"IKAGD4K6B5CJDNLHN2LBY5WBYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A notable occasion for six Irish players. </b>Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray and Cian Healy, who are retiring from international rugby at the end of the Guinness Men’s Six Nations, will lead out the teams ahead of today’s game. They will be followed by Caelan Doris, Jack Conan and Finlay Bealham, who are winning their 50th caps. Conor Murray will be accompanied by his nephew, Theo Cooper.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5UKD5MZAZHPFKI5WSUUPT35KM","additional_properties":{},"content":"I spoke to Ian McKinley, Ian Keatley, Michael Kearney and Paddy ‘Rala’ O’Reilly who know Healy, Murray and O’Mahony. You can read it <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/green-giants-healy-omahony-and-murray-set-for-final-home-bow/\" target=\"_blank\">here. </a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSDD6CW3FBCSPM7QJA5QRM2PQ4","additional_properties":{"_id":"RDDR64MBIZFFLEJ64XPSTI5M5A"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741439330120},"id":"timestamp-34551","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7E3GN7RPTFAGNIZHR7W3ISG7JA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Romain Ntamack</b> started all five games in France’s most recent Grand Slam (2022) but only once was in the run-on team since then in a Six Nations match, against Wales, the opening game in the tournament a game in which he was sent off. He’s back today following that suspension, partnering Antoine Dupont for the 29th time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EARIYFE6R5AAHAQS5OYVP6PIFU","additional_properties":{"_id":"WFL6L5ODIRBPLKVI27OET75S2Y"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741439420215},"id":"timestamp-431","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"37JAYJT4FBGUXMY7X2G5KMM4WQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"ZZGPTTBPDFCHLEFMF37OGB2QOA","additional_properties":{"_id":"QUYEG2IWUBFXZFFX746QLD2FUM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741439450700},"id":"timestamp-67689","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"6CPHAAL2W5GO7MCXL4SRSAJ3UE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley had a look at the two best scrumhalves in the world, Jamison Gibson-Park and Antoine Dupont. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\" target=\"_blank\">Here are his thoughts</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"33BQ2P6MJNEODJLITEVWET46MI","additional_properties":{"_id":"2NTTY3IEKNAE7PLYWA4WPRVLQA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440034878},"id":"timestamp-15776","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZJ7JXFLJNBEF5A27JI4R5V6CTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A word from the captains.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ESI75HHED5CFNJWF6VRSL4XM7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland’s Caelan Doris:</b> “We’re very much aware of the threat France pose and the quality they’ve got individually, but what they can do collectively as well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TMTMA5GVFHSZLWS5NFHFBEXKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’ve seen that with some of the scorelines they’ve put down against some other quality teams, and we’ve experienced it first-hand as well a number of times too so we’re definitely aware that we’re going to need to be at our best.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSTKUCGX5JEMTOAKHDYKBDME6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But there’s excitement to go there and to have our best performance yet. Some of the fixtures against France in the past are up there with my favourite games that I’ve been involved in.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJBHLTD7ZRHZTOYYUKNLISQOPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Marseille last year was a special venue to play in, very cool. Thinking back to the Aviva in ‘23, unbelievable atmosphere, very good game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AEGW3VTXSRAHNJ2UZCCCY7Z6RA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“One of the highest ball-in-play times I think that we’ve had. So, it’s two teams with an attacking mindset and attacking desire, and hopefully it will make for a good watch.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"HAGTHJB2JRAXZNI47K6DXH24AI","additional_properties":{"_id":"GLNTKCU4LZEX7EHPAYS6ZGPJLI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440060110},"id":"timestamp-24549","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"RMWJVXFJZJGGXPLGWZVILJX6IM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Antoine Dupont</b> <b>(France):</b> “Ireland have lost very few matches, they have a very rigorous system that we know. They’re (strong) attacking and defending. They have very clear processes that allow them to win matches against all the teams in the world.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3BZZ4JJ6NDIZDQE3C2HQE6BDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They’re doing a very good job - it also pushes us to be at our best level to be able to compete with this kind of team. It will be up to us to be the master of our game, not to make mistakes, not to give the opportunity to the Irish to attack us with penalties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G6QG24IAZNEYTIB6RKGFRM3IOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We know when it’s like that they’re hard to stop. We see all the games played on their defence, they almost always manage to slow down the ball. It’s a very well done job.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXHX3MZOINFP7L432O32VJNK4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We see that they know the laws very well and that they are at the limit of being penalised – they’re not always at the limit, they’re very good at it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7NCWMNZUZHVLH7SBVQ7XEG4EA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So, it’s up to us to do our best to get fast ball, and if they are at the limit, we hope we’ll do very well. We’ll play fair, but we’re not worried about it.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LJ5NBOUJA5GAXCYJLIBKF67L2A","additional_properties":{"_id":"DAU56KSG5JAGXECRNBWEK4T2KA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440342161},"id":"timestamp-44625","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JJHVFXKECNAWVF4VPUTK3D4JOM","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"BSAMLTJBFJGRPHCC2QR4GMWXTE","additional_properties":{"_id":"SS57ET2IXBE37M6Q6CKR6FSDR4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440408422},"id":"timestamp-59796","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BJ6IK4B62NAMNOORTWJ26ZEKXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of Ireland’s 50-cappers, Finlay Bealham, gets interviewed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z3IXZLX3XVE2LOTLCRIDPH4734","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"V3QSYVTHI5CRJHFU4OWPD4IR5Q","additional_properties":{"_id":"74W7SDMPAVARNFBHKXBWKJWPUA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741441097104},"id":"timestamp-42611","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"EIIVQXXDNNHQXHDLNWXI4TXGI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the the Six Nations (2000–present), Ireland have played France on 25 occasions,<b> Ireland winning 11, France 12 and two matches have been drawn</b>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BBM42YJNNCNTDFEDJTO3FHYM4","additional_properties":{"_id":"SMHVRAEV3ZAYFIPIQYKVEUKTJQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741441232912},"id":"timestamp-45202","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"U5K3CKX2CJFYRMXDOF6PS4UW6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French Rugby Federation (FFR) estimate that there are 10,000 French supporters in Dublin although walking around the city there seems to be a great deal more. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHCGEDS3NJFKPLVIO6CD73IPQM","additional_properties":{"_id":"JEXFZ2W4HJGIPECORXULKUCYY4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741441342822},"id":"timestamp-77346","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3BVO7SKF75H6XFPEE3CXVVHEJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND INJURY ALERT:</b> James Lowe has just limped down the tunnel. Received treatment to his hip and looks in a lot of discomfort. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DMVECYAFERFQFAL52FMLRX2SXY","additional_properties":{"_id":"OEKWKTNWGRDFPDLL57WJCO3NXE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442144689},"id":"timestamp-22169","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CJHLETDUAZACPHOMYDSNW2KQDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Murray Kinsella caught the on-pitch treatment. Calvin Nash has his bib off and is running on the right wing in the warm-up with Jamie Osborne switching to the left wing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBIBAQEVSRBPJA6DLRJ7F72WAI","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"DUZCQCQQFJEQPNJNLJRHJZSKXA","additional_properties":{"_id":"RHAMO6D5GRF43IXOG3TUY7OOWA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442394662},"id":"timestamp-62153","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OLAEXD6FOVHHHGNFHCLGO6WVLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>JAMES LOWE IS OUT. CALVIN NASH IN AND WILL WEAR 11 JERSEY.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"N7WH2JH3O5EOTIDNAP2LLY7HFU","additional_properties":{"_id":"I5BOXX2GJZH5XPI7IWJ4S7XP3I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442444080},"id":"timestamp-97268","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LTMBSGDWRRE5NFX54ZR3OY4KJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowe suffered a back spasm. Ireland’s two first choice wings, Hansen and Lowe miss out. Over to Osborne and Nash. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TCOTVQ6IJDZXFSL52LGBNK5RI","additional_properties":{"_id":"XGYGG3XTUJFENNCHIL6JQMSZGE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442591833},"id":"timestamp-14526","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3REF6RWWWVFWZFT4AMZXDVS37I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The teams are out for the anthems. 10 minutes to kickoff. There will be a minute’s silence for the former Irish international late Dr Bill Mulcahy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2E5J4U7HPZHPJCYEJ7XM47H3C4","additional_properties":{"_id":"ZAVZSZ2CRBFWJLONAEWUDJI5GI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442847566},"id":"timestamp-18070","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"6XZQ4EIGU4TCVMU7L6RHAG3EEI","additional_properties":{"_id":"IRZYNORGPRBOBMVS3OTEZE5A3Q"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FWD6QNFBQJANDOI4LQKFDRXMJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":"H2MPTSM3BNGLLIJ57BHFC2GA7M"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741443367758},"id":"timestamp-15616","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"E5Q23HBMLBF2BN6GPFLK5LWDBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"There’s no doubting the emotion of the occasion for several of the Irish line-up, exemplified by Peter O’Mahony and Cian Healy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3Z2PGMVX3JHIPHUKXLGOLKYPD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Time for kickoff. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IH4QRSJ5D5HBBBUYMAYOSHJSYQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"DES4YCFCNRCJTBVJCPAIZZW26Q"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741443497625},"id":"timestamp-54756","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"C2PCSMQYLRGJDJQQ3X7HIEJSYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>1 min:</b> Great start for Calvin Nash, super chase and take of Jamison Gibson-Park’s high ball. That’s nice width and change-up from Ireland. Nash involved again but the move peters out with a handling error. Bundee Aki receives treatment after receiving a ball to the face.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMYGZKCBN5GKJG7HS7AIZKTUWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"FG24NY4QXJA6PPCSZ3UMIQTC5E","additional_properties":{"_id":"JI36MX7XHRHZRCH7YCTJZTTJFA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741443969607},"id":"timestamp-8548","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4YESLANHANF7RAO3P5VE7I2X5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>4 mins:</b> First scrum, Ireland put-in. Re-set. Ireland get free-kick for early engagement. Ireland win a penalty after Dupont is penalised for offside. Prendergast kicks into French 22. Tadhg Beirne wins lineout. Dan Sheehan breaks off, grounded short. Dupont offside again and Ireland get a penalty. That’s three penalties and a free kick that France have conceded. Sheehan with a quick tap and Caelan Doris gets held up over the line. Goal-line drop out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B4EJLOK64ZA4FNFFXNVOMZ3CBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5K4ZPOTHVBRNFKNJEFEY7SXGY","additional_properties":{"_id":"2UCNOUH4BRCCXC3KXUV7XVJRNI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444091735},"id":"timestamp-78469","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KC2INZJQIBC7BLCARGMKF5VXJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"7<b> mins: </b>Superbly direct from Ireland, Josh van der Flier and Aki making some serious yards deep inside French 22 but the visitors win a turnover penalty at a ruck. Gregory Alldritt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPQFFJWLW5HIDORYLITJ3KFHKE","additional_properties":{"_id":"MTWUFQ46VNDAVJKRRXXTSQNSSI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444110847},"id":"timestamp-87898","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"YTKPDHH3TRCZNBG7JGLSZGUAGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>9 mins: </b>Superb work by Doris<b> </b>to win a ruck penalty but Sam Prendergast sees his kick from the French 10-metre line hits the left hand upright.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZQULQFRYVDY3FGKX2FXKICWEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"TAYTWWZAFVEFFCR3FHDQATQ2VQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"QSKFH743TNC45KDSZNHCSENQ7Q"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444208282},"id":"timestamp-74532","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WEQ2ZTAG3FHSVP5QEHCUF6LQQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>11 mins: </b>France penalised on the double, one for an arm hook at a lineout and the other for offside after a great break from Keenan. Prendergast kicks into the French 22. Peter O’Mahony off the top to Joe McCarthy on the peel, then Doris, then Sheehan, as Ireland inch towards the French line. Brilliant tackle by Louis Bielle-Biarrey on Keenan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z77GS4K4KNA5RJNSEYMX6PSPXU","additional_properties":{"_id":"J6QZTQNVSFAITNGB7BAPQWFG6I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444388481},"id":"timestamp-17863","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MBXDQXUHKVEK3D63RHGULRN53Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>13 mins: </b>Good aggressive defence from the French forces Ireland to lose possession which culminates with Dupont racing under the Irish posts but there are two French knocks-on in the build-up. A scrum on the French 22 is the upshot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34DXNVSYEFGOPEOPKMCBAVIBSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"S3ZPBJ44LFEMLI7HSCLGZ2QAYI","additional_properties":{"_id":"4A2BPXDNCBAQNJYUPRL4E3KLTE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444520438},"id":"timestamp-65557","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HEZPZZY5VZDRFA7PEVY77VLVKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>14 mins: </b>Ireland attack the short-side through Jamie Osborne, Ireland continue to pummel away inside the French 22, but a knock-on from Joe McCarthy and then a penalty at a ruck allows France to get into the Irish half for the first time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EK3TFO67PVGYTLMWOBSEW2ZEDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4XSF7J63JBOHGIMUKES6BN3RM","additional_properties":{"_id":"JWRTPP4GNNFJPMLNRQK4EDBXFM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444669718},"id":"timestamp-1238","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZGA4I6QD4RBUHGUPGAIW4IGFU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>18 mins: </b>Great rip by Osborne but France regain possession only for Doris to win it back. Ireland clear long, France respond in kind before Prendergast finds touch in the French half. Doris is having a huge game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3PP6K7JAANCBZGRSW7BWVYJOUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSCTIT6EGFA4TA5ISX636755HA","additional_properties":{"_id":"PURJ3UOT7ZAKHLEWHNOHARVDIQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444822193},"id":"timestamp-41014","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7HSZ3GGCHZELPE4KKMH4S7BY7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>19 mins: </b>France counterattack, Bielle-Biarrey chips and chases but McCarthy’s actions in pulling back a support player, think it was Thomas Ramos, gets him a yellow card. Silly, silly. France kick to the corner. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3WKTYSZQHNAOZLOL5DVBSSZVFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>YELLOW CARD:</b> McCarthy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7HZP4TMEXZFP7BIOUVQNOGWCE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJKQKRSYXFDLFNIVT7FWHGLG7I","additional_properties":{"_id":"MSCW57NQTBBG3NVYY7VHQV47FI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445007282},"id":"timestamp-1675","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"VZ4EKRHLYNFAXCZXHQQ6WXANIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>TRY: Bielle-Biarrey. </b>France get their maul going forward and two passes down the short-side send Bielle-Biarrey over in the corner. That comes off Ireland having 70 percent possession. The visitors show them how to be ruthless in the scoring zone. Ramos misses the conversion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LJOXQENGVVALJJB2YSJ4NYARQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 5</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOBP4WLYAVGRZPFIQREXDBQCCE","additional_properties":{"_id":"EXZZJOGP65AA7B7BRROKXZEWDI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445339379},"id":"timestamp-38510","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BGLFOPMGCVE4XHVQTBQUHFHDOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>27 mins: </b>Ireland under pressure again. Referee Angus Gardner is fighting a running battle with Ireland about wishing to speed up lineout and play on. He’s ignoring any injury issues. Then he wants to play on when Dupont is injured. Dupont is gone. France complaining about the clear-out. Alldritt wants him to look at it again. Gardner says that they have and it’s just a rugby collision/injury.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDDFSZO2XBB4ZIA7GV7K4YOFLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Maxime Lucu is on. France now have seven forwards left on the bench. Gamble doesn’t pay off. Bielle-Biarrey with a chip through. He claims that he is tackled late. No one else agrees though. McCarthy is back on the pitch. Ireland get the 22 drop out. Five points conceded in the 22 minutes that McCarthy was off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EBOQHESTO5HBRC33UNKUEGZ4GM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 5</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ORWYAUJIJBBTFNMGFOPHROQ32A","additional_properties":{"_id":"FXZTVMBLFFBTPEV22KDF5SKXDM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445716820},"id":"timestamp-11837","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2RK6WPXMKNDQNE3OIKECEPNVOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>31 mins: </b>Gardner and Doris are having a long dialogue about keeping distance. Alldritt is back to Gardner about the injury that ended Dupont’s participation. The Australian referee is having none of it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OO5TFUGVPND7JC7Z6PMKQHFZJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 5</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"KWIRHMBV5BEKTBUBYQBDSSIODQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"CZ37LLZR4JGTLDLJY6V7VAJX4I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445916742},"id":"timestamp-23609","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LBCKHFVTYJGAFO6MFBN2PRN6VQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>33 mins: PRENDERGAST PENALTY: </b>Ireland go on to attack again, get a lucky ricochet from a kick which Nash collects, two rucks later, Henshaw grubbers through on penalty advantage from a tackle off the ball by Paul Boudehent. Prendergast makes no mistake.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WDRTLLLT4RBABMI3QLGLMNGRN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 3 France 5</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"TQ2RO66D7JHZDGNA6P23BIIFAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"7XPT7EVY4NADHKCOTO5PKVAG3E"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446074586},"id":"timestamp-11099","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"RPR454L57FF3LL6ICMUDMAZX2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>35 mins: RAMOS PENALTY: </b>That’s a ridiculous decision. France giving a penalty for alleged interference from kickoff by Andrew Porter. He did nothing to obstruct Damian Penaud. The French wing bought that penalty. Ramos makes not mistake. That’ll stick in the Irish gut.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBAR3N54KFEATJ4ECG6LFJXQ2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 3 France 8</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"CXCEYQM64BB5JD2COF7TQT55ZI","additional_properties":{"_id":"EI7BM2LLINHGDOB7FSDBY7ZQDM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446193994},"id":"timestamp-30908","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DJYGXGWAEFDZVOZWMNYSHEHHTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>35 mins: </b>That’s another questionable decision. Osborne brilliant on kick-chase, nabs Penaud eight metres from the French line. Pierre-Louis Barassi clears Doris out from the side but France get a scrum, knock-on is the ruling.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUNLQLNMYZGNPNLSYKM4SWNK2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 3 France 8</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"QTU6BYXLD5AABGOEKJFJZM7H3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":"THTSI5UNHJGLHPRDPTE5W2SCZE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446375313},"id":"timestamp-1479","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DS6FB2DLBBCIVITTJEWXVXVRYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>40(+1) mins: </b>Ireland are claiming that there was a head shot on Porter. Referee is unmoved rightly pointing out that if there was it will be called. The home side have a penalty on the halfway line. Prendergast thumps it over. Superb strike.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BM4JKIWFFNAG7K6RRN4JD4UDFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 6 France 8</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"FRREY3EVL5GJ5IWJVFHV3AGA6E","additional_properties":{"_id":"2MUU5NSTLFBSBD572HM4QPBZ44"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446533761},"id":"timestamp-47861","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OPCYK67ZDZCD5FTAFTY34PRX4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Half-time: Ireland 6 France 8</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SRHDY75QW5HGBEWQYOXEUIKF34","additional_properties":{"_id":"HYVXLVECTVHENE6G2PYCSIZMCU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446555817},"id":"timestamp-15613","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KLESXVWG3VGGNKPFD2CDN5BJWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Where to start. Ireland dominate the first 20-minutes only to fall to a sucker punch score on virtually the first occasion that France get into their 22. French wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey scores a try for the seventh time in the last seven Tests. Ireland lost Joe McCarthy to a yellow card for a silly pull back on Thomas Ramos. It was during his absence that France scored, the launchpad a lineout maul, where McCarthy’s power was missed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEAB7ZMB4BGCZLE2LW3ACSGKHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The visitors lost captain Antoine Dupont to what looked like a knee injury, when he was cleared-out at the ruck. Twice subsequently Dupont’s successor as captain, Alldritt, went to match referee Angus Gardner to ask him to get the officials to have a look at the incident. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FGA6Y5JTBJABDB6PQGM7T3IRHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prendergast, who had earlier hit an upright with a penalty, landed his next opportunity but Ireland then conceded a similiar opportunity, a ridiculously harsh decision. Ramos kicked it but in first half injury time Prendergast landed a monster penalty from the halfway line. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"L32T2ID4QVGHXHK3UUPE6QIZHE","additional_properties":{"_id":"XSARK46VCBCX5MFZSBAK7EQWA4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447196995},"id":"timestamp-32751","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"VMAC4PE4RVHUTLL5DI5IY63G4Y","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"BGODTRHCQVB6TN7GNSOYBNQUNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"U7YELITFEFABTPHR7OM35IHKMY"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447245900},"id":"timestamp-35099","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ECJSFNJGKZGYPBIA7WJY5O6UOA","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"OOTAY5QHENBGZDALHEMV5IYQ5A","additional_properties":{"_id":"GRLXX45EDZGWPE5B5IOHGK46JE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447327726},"id":"timestamp-55907","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"P5OW4DADU5DNVCK4KXN6FASXTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Looked at the Dupont incident. The French scrumhalf was trying to jackal when Tadhg Beirne, propelled by those behind him, looked to clear out legitimately and drove Dupont backwards at an angle. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZA426WBSO5ASFHXGC6OUAFWFGY","additional_properties":{"_id":"NMJQQNKI3BCMXP66DRDDVAQRZY"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447451297},"id":"timestamp-74268","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"G4V23FIODZBTNC46XVH66HQTY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>42 mins:</b> Ireland bought a penalty there after sustained pressure, Bielle-Biarrey caught offside.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNBWXZIEXZBDRA7U7IVUUZ26D4","additional_properties":{"_id":"VPEKNNAGUZHY5NNSXM6IIIJ2OI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447557335},"id":"timestamp-47714","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4FU77QBT4BEWPJGMFFC5VMKCCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>43 mins: TRY SHEEHAN. </b>Ireland kick the penalty to the corner. Beirne with the take and the Irish maul is well-crafted, moves forward, and then Sheehan breaks off the back and drives through the tackle of Lucu for a fine try. Prendergast lands the touchline conversion, a lovely kick. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AX4G4LBFK5FTVOEU6MIV4UYUMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 8 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"X7S3UNA2FJD57FYFI5UCCVLV7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":"RZQIBFYXCNHBFEMHQSFUQP5TCQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447680807},"id":"timestamp-58939","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DDV34UD6AFHPPC6YRHNCCSGRXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Whatever was said by Ireland coach Simon Easterby has worked nicely. Ireland were bright again from the opening whistle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SA3O7FQKR5BHZATIT4JWRNWKQM","additional_properties":{"_id":"3TYKIY7FD5CEXHYBJ5NGHKZPG4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447784218},"id":"timestamp-87694","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"74SNBBBUYJDZNIHDUFJD4AITOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>46 mins: TRY BOUDEHENT.</b> France on penalty advantage power their way forward, winning each collision and eventually, Ireland run out of numbers and Boudehent forces his way over. The visitors were on penalty advantage. The TMO, Ian Tempest, comes in to draw attention to a head collision. Nash receives a yellow card for his head clash on Barassi. They look at an incident in the build-up but Gardner on review says that a clear-out on O’Mahony was legal. He awards the try and Ramos kicks the conversion. Barassi is off for a HIA. Oscar Jegoum, a flanker is on in the midfield.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBLLD2BUVJGBFKBORVRV2OT5JQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 15</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"BKQ22EOBX5AGJCPOL2VVPPRXNU","additional_properties":{"_id":"JLMSOKUWMJFU3NY645KWVM7IJU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448083259},"id":"timestamp-14146","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"SPPFIZXV25ADXFTJIULJKWQPKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>48 mins: </b>Nash is in the sin bin under review for his yellow card. Decision is in. It’ll remain a yellow. Barassi is undergoing a HIA. Jack Conan is on for O’Mahony who receives a huge ovation in his last game at the Aviva Stadium. Ryan ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3CMMXWSWMVH43L3QS56IRQPGPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>49 mins: TRY Bielle-Biarrey.</b> France on a sweeping counter-attack go down the wing where Nash would have been - he’s still in the bin - work the ball wide to Bielle-Biarrey, the wing hits the afterburners, grubbers and wins the footrace. Ramos kicks the conversion. The French make four changes to their pack. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D7DB77SQKZCCHC524LUCCYHUS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 22 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNIRFZMGPRCQLJFRS5CR7CSECA","additional_properties":{"_id":"ESF3AODCZBB3BJDFGLBQESKT24"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448368500},"id":"timestamp-62476","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7IRZDCC4BZG3ZOU5GXONNSE3FE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>55 mins: RAMOS PENALTY. </b>A blue tidal wave. France back on the attack and they are within metres of the Irish line when Doris is pinged for playing the nine, Lucu. Alldritt turns to Ramos to kick the penalty and the French fullback duly obliges. Jack Crowley is on for Ireland; he’ll play in the centre. Aki is off. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"S6UVR6TLJNCG5FZLCZ3OHZ2NWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 25 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VR2EZ4M7BEI5MJDKJDLYWZYBM","additional_properties":{"_id":"BFMBQPNV2RFHVGZQO6R5GYSRLE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448596301},"id":"timestamp-4462","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HRMZ5TAKFZAKHCHSE7S2OTWCW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>56 mins: Nash is back on, Ireland are back to 15 players. The damage has been done. </b>James Ryan is on for McCarthy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MSHHBK4AKJHBBP5MNTNWWGEFLA","additional_properties":{"_id":"XY4A3VUG7VGKLBACKLKXZFTX4M"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448711553},"id":"timestamp-81502","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"QC3EXRG2XRGGRFPXVO57MJQHCA","additional_properties":{},"content":" <b>58 mins: TRY JEGOU. </b>The impact of the French bench and Ireland going down to 14 players has resulted in the visitors running riot. They’ve been breathtaking in the rugby they’ve played.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2P643OURORE7TGKRAEPTG6HBX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 32</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OTNZ4F43KZGYJC73Y4CVJNDK64","additional_properties":{"_id":"7QOKVQC3IBADRCVMTEQ5MA4YU4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448849743},"id":"timestamp-91302","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2LOPJH5Q3BBP3GXZDZWNI43YLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>France have scored 24 points in second half 12 minutes and claimed a four try bonus point. </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ACT4WIGIF5HRTPEW332LM2OXJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":"7ZQFPK5CYJDGTF7ES6Y773NTMM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448917709},"id":"timestamp-65418","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"6Y4BGFOIXZBNXCNODOJBIRR734","additional_properties":{},"content":"France have scored 29-points from seven visits to the Ireland 22. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSCLKXQBLZGZHIKPVHSVC7YNQY","additional_properties":{"_id":"EMLVXMHIURDYPL34LLNNLWH7IM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449100992},"id":"timestamp-81384","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ESR57UAV3BGO7O2SW6LXVNDRYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>64 mins:</b> <b>RAMOS PENALTY</b>: Doris goes off for a HIA. Van der Flier back on. Prendergast on a wrap around but he tries to take the space and gets collared by Jegou. The pass might have been the better option there. France are utterly dominant. Ireland penalised again at a ruck. Ramos points at the points.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ETNGFNXPFDF7CIBOL676GWBP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 35 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"QE7MPBLWC5DXPKD7AHWWYLIBIM","additional_properties":{"_id":"TBHYWANCYZE4HJ7RAJ7JFB26SU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449327950},"id":"timestamp-19047","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WZLCSFD3RFEZHBD2LPFZSMIQYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>68 mins: </b>Cian Healy, Rob Herring and Conor Murray are on for Porter, Sheehan and Gibson-Park.<b> </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQIO6QCYRJG43LSBXKGAWQNBVY","additional_properties":{"_id":"2LGYZKYE3FH4XPBDMBNV2U2ACE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449530742},"id":"timestamp-66976","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"D2LKZIHO5ZA6LGCXK6URKJOI6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>69 mins: </b>Ireland with a great try scoring chance but Robbie Henshaw steps back inside rather than looking at the man outside. Conor Murray then gets over the line but replacement prop Cyril Baille gets underneath him and denies him a try. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RZVUC5FEFVEZROK4GJQYLFDQNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 35 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"VRXNADF4TZHLHBPYCHPJ7QOTCM","additional_properties":{"_id":"DEJ5WNH535EVPK5CTLGNDUQZYA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449696884},"id":"timestamp-86374","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WNEQ2HGO3FAR3C3CTUOD7ZLNLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>72 mins: </b>Prendergast with a couple of chips through that he might like over again but Ireland are at least showing character. There accuracy though in the French 22 is seriously lacking. Right on cue Prendergast’s pass six metres from the French line was intercepted by Ramos and he released Penaud who races 75 metres to score under the posts. Ramos converts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"REPUZGTZ3FFUZKW5DAIB2SPEC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 42 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZXRFGEUWVE43FPKOKYVEC3GBQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"RCIW2GQU6NHO7BBLWMTOH6UGQQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449953057},"id":"timestamp-93227","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HZGRAEVKANFOJCR7F567GY3Y5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>77 mins: TRY HEALY. </b>In his 137th game for Ireland and the final one at the Aviva Stadium, grabs a try. It’s a lovely personal moment. Prendergast converts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCWI4Y4J65F7XO63AFL5LUNYN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 20 France 42 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"6RYF5F6WIJB2LLBXTQCKQXAOAE","additional_properties":{"_id":"PJJUVYPPUVG5RFA7455JWPUYQM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741450177609},"id":"timestamp-23645","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"V24GVNXITVCH7GCZT72YLZ376Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>80(+1) CONAN TRY. </b>Prendergast with a quick tap penalty and Conan grabs a second Irish try in three minutes. Prendergast lands the conversion but it’s nothing more than window dressing on the scoreboard. France were stunning for half an hour in the second half, played glorious rugby and were worthy winners. Ireland can and will have no complaints. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QIFVYOEZQBHZ3BU63TL3YI3NJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 27 France 42</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RQFBCMFEFBAHBZMTQHCWV5YEY","additional_properties":{"_id":"QXPBUQU2XBGGFIRBJRRVJFH2VY"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741450375623},"id":"timestamp-60089","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LSTQNV4S3ZHZTB4FND6PEQKB34","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Fulltime: Ireland 27 France 42</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LTFG5YN2CFCXDOAPYFCWQMWSVM","additional_properties":{"_id":"LIIYUMEYUVFZTL6OUHSUMBVNFQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741450741843},"id":"timestamp-14290","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I33XSZ3JQZEFPJPOS7POUGS5KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That was a chastening afternoon for Ireland, the first in a very long time. Forget about the late salvo that yielded 14-points and tries for replacements Cian Healy and Jack Conan. It won’t console players of Irish supporters. The home side received a lesson today in how to ruthlessly finish off opportunities. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"K3IN23DF6VB3LAEFZNGW2CVMF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"France did this without captain, Antoine Dupont whom they lost to a knee injury in the first half, centre Pierre-Louis Barassi (HIA) in the second and ended with up replacement and try scorer Oscar Jegou, a flanker playing in the centre. Louis Bielle-Biarrey demonstrated why he is one of the best players in the world with a brace of tries, Damian Penaud’s breakaway effort saw him equal the French try scoring record held by Serge Blanco.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VJCDBDGPPBCDZDF53MD3JPXUPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"French head coach Fabien Galthié‘s decision to opt for a 7-1 split on the bench, despite the injuries to two backs, proved to be a masterstroke as the arrival of the front five pack replacements had a significant impact on the outcome. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PWL4JAVG7ZFRBISVMNGJ7PVRGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"22G6L6E5VBFFLFGB3TUHBG5RC4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741451400504},"id":"timestamp-78408","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"Z4P6DH3TPRFGHHMJRUKI5FNW2A","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"C3FGBV6MFJFMND7NHNPTDGOWUE","additional_properties":{"_id":"AH5W6334FFCU5LAXBBCRKGWMMA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741451426329},"id":"timestamp-55434","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"VYJRMVZWSZCEJHLNDORU3I2BEQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"OK7IUCOLLFFPRB5VSG2MEBBWG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Seems appropriate","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPWS5MVIGBGM7KMOLALFQWQTMA","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"TA6EPWXXJJG6FLNGNDGUW3M5NU","additional_properties":{},"content":"I’m almost afraid to look but Johnny Watterson’s Ireland player ratings are imminent. He’s been chewing on the top of the red pen. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7BD2N3E6F5E27BR2U3BFVP2DBI","additional_properties":{"_id":"JAA27DMH2ZDULDAWRNS5PATY6U"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452046882},"id":"timestamp-67971","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"GT26ZFJZEBGG5BQWRJAYMNEV5U","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"THBWEIXITNGHFA4SVW4TX5V5QM","additional_properties":{"_id":"2CKFHQEQZBHWRFSJBGPUAMYXP4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452181293},"id":"timestamp-13098","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"N44X6QE2XZBXVCGE7OJ4KYVPPA","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"GQABPCVMPNHH7IN56WNWOTVJII","additional_properties":{},"content":"A look at Dan Sheehan’s try.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EZZEHZFTV5FFZGKIPGTIC7NGCM","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"IJ2FQ44JOVDW7LWY4UICWLBKIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"NJR6MMA6IVFGTBHB4IXZRYLQSU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452697813},"id":"timestamp-99024","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HSMCAQYGOBE6TKD427AVRGFBEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Johnny Watterson’s player ratings are in, three Irish players get seven, the highest mark, one of which is captain, Caelan Doris. Johnny wrote: “The lineout worked and he was a good Irish option there. Made some big tackles, notably on Thomas Ramos in the first half, and ground away in the engine room.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ZTIHXQFQBCXTB56RKQIQ4EJBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-27-france-42-how-the-irish-players-rated-at-the-aviva-stadium/?\" target=\"_blank\">You can read the rest of the ratings here.</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YOH4B6UT3BE5VL3PEQI7OHQ45Q","additional_properties":{"_id":"23HHL5Q65VHVZEEPAEYY5IVU2U"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452790716},"id":"timestamp-93567","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3WDAGJJCDFDURESXB3LJN6N3YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley’s match report is in. He wrote: “France put Ireland to the sword and utterly obliterated hopes of a Grand Slam, also ending any realistic designs on a historic three-peat next weekend. What’s more, France did so despite losing their talisman early in the piece, so shredding any notion that they might be overly dependent on Antoine Dupont.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GKR6ZZQ3UFD7NJ2CZX2OX3B3VA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Despite one of their battery of backrowers also playing much of the second half in midfield, France’s 7-1 split reaped a rich dividend as their amalgam of power and pace shredded Ireland in the third quarter. Ireland just do not have finishers like the jet-heeled Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Damian Penaud.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5UDPQZIJ6ZAT5EQJMUGMTZTLN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Their defence also smashed Ireland in the collisions, and the injection of the Bomb Squad did not dilute this in any way. Their backrow were immense, particularly Paul Boudehent.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5VZN4GKPRGLJH54PBBIDY7AZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/french-power-game-blows-ireland-off-the-park-as-grand-slam-hopes-obliterated/\" target=\"_blank\">You can read the rest of his report here</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PNBJ77PK5BCNFKAZHI2PTCJBQQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"SZMPPHW4INCPZD7NS3CUARWR4E"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741453750654},"id":"timestamp-79417","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FRLTOBL4RBBA3LYTQSTNLQWIZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"What about the lies, damn lies and statistics. Well","type":"text"},{"_id":"AAUNVVYPTJFVXGQ45MMOO7J5NA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland had more attacking minutes 16.8 to 15.1, carried for more metres 886 to 744, beat more defenders 21-19 and had more offloads 9-8 while the French made more line-breaks 6-4, fewer handling errors 11-17 and fewer turnovers 7-11. France made 196 tackles and missed 21 while Ireland made 97 and missed 19. France conceded 13 penalties to Ireland’s six. Ireland had two yellow cards. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHW6CRSOCFD4FAQQL4IMCLRNYU","additional_properties":{"_id":"7EEGWZFQ6RGOPOQVZ4ALA5L77I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741454344637},"id":"timestamp-14194","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"IVZH2EBX35CARMLYOKRGQ4L2GM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>STATE OF THE NATION</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OUOLSUV25FFMVIU4VQ27TFSSEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland’s pursuit of a third successive victory in the Six Nations is no longer in their hands following their 42-27 defeat to France at the Aviva Stadium.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XQHKPNTYVRDFJAAJD2U3VH6EJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fabien Galthié‘s side are now two points ahead of Ireland in the table going into the final round of fixtures. On the last day, the French host Scotland at the Stade de France (8.0, Irish time). They have a 93-point advantage over Ireland – they travel to Rome to take on Italy – going into next weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NGAGU24NTFEM3C6UA4M45FDARQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A victory of any nature for France against the Scots in their last match would ensure that Ireland could not catch them. At the very least Ireland would need the Scots to win before any mathematics comes into play. The chances of a ‘three-peat’ of wins in the tournament are remote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UG6JCJD27NEEFJMP45Q6DILDJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"If teams finish level on points, then the standings are decided by points differential. England can overtake Ireland in the table if they beat Italy with a four try, bonus point at Twickenham in Sunday’s game. They would put England second (15 points) behind France (16) with Ireland (14) in third place. England are away to Wales on the final weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQYX33W3UZBJ7D3YOMQO7HLPMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Scots have a four try, bonus point racked up already in the first half of their game with Wales but would go into the final weekend on 11 points. Essentially Ireland are looking for favours from their Celtic brothers Scotland and Wales, while also requiring a win in Rome. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"APUV5GSOC5E5ZOYGZDWQUENXRE","additional_properties":{"_id":"EB63A5VF3BDNJD47D56IMIJSYE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741455383069},"id":"timestamp-65316","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7NZJF5PI3JER7EPHKJIMGD5HYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland head coach Simon Easterby: </b>“Disappointing, obviously. We felt like when we went in at half-time 8-6 down, we were well in the game and we were confident that if we started well, which we did in the second half, that we could kick on and make them pay in terms of our fitness and our ability to go well in the second half, which we’ve done in previous games in the tournament.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SIRN4ADWRFCFBNNY3PLWSAVNXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But unfortunately, we probably just didn’t take enough of our opportunities throughout the game in their 22 and vice versa, we conceded too easily ourselves.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QOMS7Z4PIFBLXPKD4I2IDM3ONU","additional_properties":{"_id":"WYC7Z22B2BGAJGUKVGCPK22T5Q"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741455778930},"id":"timestamp-48013","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZL4J3IUHKRAPVJXT6EZZFCVVKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the incident that saw Dupont suffer a knee injury Easterby said: “I think it’s just a rugby incident where Tadhg (Beirne) cleans out someone in front of Antoine Dupont and he gets hit on the back of that. This happens. We definitely have moved away and players have a real awareness now of cleaning out on the lower limb of the player, which would create that type of injury that might happen today, but that wasn’t the case. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GEC2ET6ZY5CT3PMGG5NERK2WM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He was securing his own ball and not making contact with Dupont and unfortunately that happens. I’ll probably have to look back at it again. We feel like the right decision was made there.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NBXHEYD67JEGRNBAPYL4DIJWZM","additional_properties":{"_id":"MGDZILQ3RJE6VOKYUDGYGWLJYQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741456038605},"id":"timestamp-13468","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"U7ODDSTPJ5H4XPBNCDGTJD3I3Q","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"2GRBG7XIEJH4LB7BTUUYGRXC6E","additional_properties":{"_id":"DFSS74T2YZHKPMD2JGSP5LCMBE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741456298422},"id":"timestamp-59663","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4YHBZ3WEMJGUTCR5ZVSIHJSB7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Midi Olympique give Yoram Moefana (8.5) and Francois Cros (8.5) to top their player ratings while two-try hero, Louis Bielle-Biarrey gets an eight.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5LXSIJY7ZFJDEFKTNKHFALWHU","additional_properties":{"_id":"NWI55QHEMVBE5KRZCVA2FXPS6I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741456424426},"id":"timestamp-27396","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KBRQ3WBCEVDC7DNOSAOTBGBPUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"We will have more port match reaction from Gerry Thornley on Simon Easterby’s press conference and Malachy Clerkin who is looking after all things French. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EJNQ5GVNMBFSZFJTGEB45AL5EQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"QU2CTZPT3FGV5OBQMP37SZJN2I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741456936142},"id":"timestamp-69192","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LU2UPM7PBZESXANNZHHPTXUHO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Thank you all for your company but hang tough, that reaction is coming.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASPTZP7BR5BRDFIKA2FE4DZYSA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741458981931},"id":"timestamp-30327","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"PACEFBRGFNAYPO2KUVE444CV54","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’re back, and as promised we’ve some post-match reaction for you.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ODD6HSAWSVGVXIETOPFHKTOJA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"First up: Fabien Galthié.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OYNEGBICLJGA5BDQEJU635OGZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Malachy Clerkin sat in on the France head coach’s press conference, and seemingly had to whip out the old English-French dictionary:","type":"text"},{"_id":"FCYOSOY43VHSZOODKEDUEETH74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fabien Galthié was in no mood afterwards. The France coach pointedly didn’t take any questions in English but you didn’t need Duolingo to understand that he had a bone to pick. Losing Antoine Dupont to a serious knee injury midway through the first half coloured his reaction to everything. His captain was in tears in the dressingroom, Pierre-Louis Barassi didn’t make it through a HIA. Galthié was annoyed on both counts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFEQU4R5OFZAJGAWNSWQUGF65E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4GS2RYHHTZDM3AAOCGDS36PMXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Our players did not return to the pitch,” he said. “We would like to understand why. On this issue, we are angry. We want to protect our players. There are means, [there are] rules. The [citing] commissioner must study the actions that are reprehensible or not. Neither Antoine nor Pierre-Louis returned to the pitch. One for a cleaning, the other for a contact.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CE66Q7MGQFDVRGMDLKRRRBIR3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“For Antoine, there is suspicion of a fairly serious knee injury. I won’t go into details due to medical confidentiality, but Antoine is suffering. We have cited players to appear before the [Six Nations disciplinary] committee – Tadhg Beirne and Andrew Porter. Calvin Nash has also been summoned before the committee, for Pierre-Louis Barassi because he did not respond favourably to the protocol.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PWE5GL3B5BDTLKYAE42BH4CPWE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We feel bad for [Antoine]. In terms of the action, in my opinion it was reprehensible, and there are ways to study and analyse it. We feel for him today. He is suffering and we are suffering with him.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQAVG5JOSNHVPPQ2FCPXR27GOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/\">Read Malachy’s full piece from the press conference here</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MGLFBITCCRF2ZOBKS5HWLETYEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley’s dispatches from Simon Easterby’s press conference will be with us shortly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5AFNLEVZU5FWVIRQW623SPCX6Q","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741461153043},"id":"timestamp-76723","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7RDUES46IFG3HITYU5P3T4VWSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"And Gerry Thornley’s piece from the Ireland press conference is in:","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIM4QQWAGZGLZM4DCH2CQ4JSRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s been a long, long time since an Irish team has been rolled over in such a lopsided manner, especially at home. The home team and the home crowd, who were even more comprehensively second best, were left reeling as France scored 34 unanswered points in a blue blur of power and pace.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JB57JJRMWRH6LNHGIJVSCLQPTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Unbeaten at home in the Six Nations since France won here behind closed doors in 2021, Ireland had seemed relatively well set, or at any rate highly competitive, when Dan Sheehan’s 43rd-minute try and Sam Prendergast’s touchline conversion put them 13-8 ahead. Even interim head coach Simon Easterby felt so.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZOLM7SU4BD6JKIDK3HJJKIOTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We felt like going in at half-time 8-6 down we were well in the game, and we were confident that if we started well – which we did – in the second half, we could kick on and make them pay, in terms of our fitness and our ability to go well in second halves, which we have done in previous games.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ARAETKEMMFGUBMVYL44HRKCJAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But, unfortunately, we probably didn’t take enough of our opportunities in their 22, and vice versa, we conceded too easily ourselves.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XB3MAAK3ZZHVBII7EOF6IKJH6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-boss-simon-easterby-pinpoints-chances-not-taken-and-ones-given-up-too-easy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-boss-simon-easterby-pinpoints-chances-not-taken-and-ones-given-up-too-easy/\">Read Gerry’s full piece from the press conference here</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"II6Q5TCFPBCNVBW7LPFOR27QIY","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741461396610},"id":"timestamp-62052","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5JHY42WYAZAF7GP2SS5E5DQTHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"That’s all from us for today.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVGM2COB7VEVLIDHEX5DZ6XZTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"A disappointing result but them’s the breaks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSB4OSM2TNCTJNEBDEXU2BHOYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Before we go, Scotland are after beating Wales 35-29 (<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/\">read the report from Murrayfield here</a>). So that just leaves England v Italy tomorrow (kick-off 3pm).","type":"text"},{"_id":"O76GKZEE7JDWBD6JWVJIQTH7QY","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’ll be back here this day next week for Super Saturday. Until then, take it easy.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"free"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"John O'Sullivan"}},"name":"John O'Sullivan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Ireland beaten 42-27 at the Aviva Stadium"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T19:20:25.258Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland v France: Les Bleus run riot to win in Dublin – As it happened","native":""},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RBEDTALO2OAN6TUGF3BRUDR7OU","auth":{"1":"44ce116b0ef8737c4aa19e2f74f6f94d1138aa7d841150cd0e207cb2f5fc915b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RBEDTALO2OAN6TUGF3BRUDR7OU.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"live-story","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-v-france-live-updates-from-crunch-six-nations-clash-at-the-aviva/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"XQ5ZWVXA6VHN3NHMIEX55OK76A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":336,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/9fa6db04-c2d9-476a-bff8-f96e7e63f9cf/versions/1741462553/media/0f69fd5822553370ed63abdc7ac0c08d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BZPGN4NZEZDGXK5XZCU5SSADNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six Nations: Scotland 35 Wales 29","type":"header"},{"_id":"7QIQSF7EN5DOBETQZY7GMID7XA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tom Jordan and Blair Kinghorn both scored doubles in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scotland-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scotland-rugby/\">Scotland</a>’s five-try 35-29 victory over <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/wales-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/wales-rugby/\">Wales</a> at Murrayfield as the visitors went down to a 16th consecutive Test defeat and a 10th straight loss in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\">Six Nations</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6N4FK6URRBXXKCK6K2H4EXQ7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"With their own hopes of contending for the title already over after losing their previous two matches against Ireland and England, the Scots needed a strong response against a struggling Welsh side intent on backing up a heartening display against Ireland in Matt Sherratt’s first game in interim charge.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HN64KM7X5RFXZLDZNVPEY4STEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For the most part, Gregor Townsend’s side delivered as they ran in four tries before the break to lead by 20 points before opening up a 35-8 lead by the hour, leaving them on course to eclipse their record 28-point victory over the Welsh two years ago.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U5QG75UVB5HYJCJI34CXEM5N5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, as the Scots suffered one of their trademark flaky periods in the final quarter, Wales – who scored in the first half through Blair Murray – made the scoreline far more respectable with tries from Ben Thomas, Teddy Williams and Max Llewellyn.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5JK4BJGYTRC6BBOOXY5FDAMRDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland co-captain Finn Russell had come under scrutiny after missing all three of his goal-kicks against England last time out, but this time his contribution from the tee proved crucial as he bounced back to nail all five of his conversions before being replaced just after the hour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HA57OVTQJ5CDPNUSRZWN5EGR5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"With Murrayfield bathed in glorious spring sunshine as the players took to the field, the visitors made a bright start, getting off the mark with less than three minutes on the clock through Gareth Anscombe’s penalty.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTGT4C7BTVCFFBV6QNOCZGMVXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland soon sparked into life, however, and they got themselves up and running with a superb multiphase try in the fifth minute. Darcy Graham – back in the side after concussion – was instrumental, darting incisively towards the 22 before a perfectly-timed pass over his left shoulder to Kinghorn, who powered beyond the challenge of Anscombe to score.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3TYM5FJZXPI2H4FAAXQQO3HG7Q","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NF4SDJF6WBFJJMAZRXH43D55FM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Welsh were undone again in the 11th minute when Jordan raced in behind the posts to finish off a lovely flowing move involving Duhan van der Merwe and Huw Jones.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YRNDN3ATWJFLHHXNIVMDHKC66M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland had some sloppy moments when they got into promising positions, paving the way for Wales to reduce their deficit in the 24th minute as Anscombe’s deft chip over the top sent Murray scampering in for an easy touchdown. Anscombe hit the post with his conversion attempt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BUWBL4ZK2FDCFKRTSYENONPMOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The hosts reasserted their authority in the 27th minute when Graham burst over for the 30th try of his Test career after some sublime play from Russell, selling Anscombe a dummy, to set him clear.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFCXLGMAOVCHHE5FR6COWAOE7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"A Welsh meltdown just after the half-hour allowed the men in dark blue to extend their advantage to 20 points. Prop Willgriff John was sinbinned for cynical play in the 31st minute, and Scotland swiftly scored again following some calamitous play from the visitors inside their own 22.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RLULMXVLJBCFTOPF5DAKRDZVMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ben Thomas’ kick to the right was overhit and as Murray – at full stretch – just managed to flick it back in to Thomas, the centre fumbled the ball allowing Jordan to dash in for his second of the match.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJ7U4KXABVCFVECFL55P63J6RU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland’s backs were having a field day and Kinghorn followed Jordan in doubling his tally eight minutes after the interval after good play from Jones and Russell to send him through a gap.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7ZYUE7GWNGC3JHNDNNQKXCHFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wales’ deficit was trimmed to 20 points once more in the 61st minute when Thomas made amends for his earlier error by evading Van der Merwe and Zander Fagerson to bolt over, with replacement Jarrod Evans adding the extras.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPDCYQJZO5BIJASVM5VB74X5LU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland, having looked so comfortable on the hour, suddenly seemed rattled and Wales roared back to within just six points by close of play as Williams and Llewellyn both crossed the whitewash to earn two unlikely losing bonus points.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W64IZ2LRLFCZ5HAHC3PL3PMOCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>SCOTLAND</b>: B Kinghorn (Toulouse); D Graham (Edinburgh), H Jones (Glasgow), T Jordan (Glasgow), D van der Merwe (Edinburgh); F Russell (Bath, capt), B White (Toulon); P Schoeman (Edinburgh), D Cherry (Edinburgh), Z Fagerson (Glasgow); J Gray (Bordeaux), G Gilchrist (Edinburgh); J Ritchie (Edinburgh), R Darge (Glasgow, capt), J Dempsey (Glasgow).","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z6SI435TJVGMVEIA5JLRTZZP3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> M Fagerson (Glasgow) for Darge (35 mins); G Horne (Glasgow) for White, E Ashman (Edinburgh) for Cherry (both 56); S McDowall (Glasgow) for Russell, R Sutherland (Glasgow) for Schoeman, W Hurd (Leicester) for Z Fagerson (all 62); G Brown (Glasgow) for Gray, K Rowe (Glasgow) for Graham (both 67).","type":"text"},{"_id":"S5EMNB3OGBFSDNDKE3JPDYNKC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>WALES:</b> B Murray (Scarlets); T Rogers (Scarlets), M Llewellyn (Gloucester), B Thomas (Cardiff), E Mee (Scarlets); G Anscombe (Gloucester), T Williams (Gloucester); N Smith (Leicester), E Dee (Dragons), W John (Sale Sharks); W Rowlands (Racing 92), D Jenkins (Exeter); J Morgan (Ospreys, capt), T Reffell (Leicester), T Faletau (Cardiff).","type":"text"},{"_id":"KLCDQTNJSRERVCPBACWCYIWOVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> J Roberts (Scarlets) for Rogers (9 mins); K Assiratti (Cardiff) for Refell (35-40 mins) and for John (45); D Lake (Ospreys) for Dee, A Wainwright (Dragons) for Refell (both 45); J Evans (Harlequins) for Anscombe, G Thomas (Ospreys) (both 56); T Williams (Cardiff) for Rowlands (63); R Williams (Dragons) for T Williams (69).","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCATHTLVNVGOLDX7R5C5QT3TQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Yellow card:</b> John (31 mins). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"N4GTHIS5PJGAHNG55XFYTIJNX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> A Piardi (Ita).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Wales cut the deficit after the break as Scotland took foot off the gas"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T19:08:43.546Z","headlines":{"basic":"Scotland run in five tries as Wales continue losing run despite late fightback","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"CR4KON4WTP65ZW2HEDTM4YWHKA","auth":{"1":"6888a77ff76210dc40f00e195ed8411c9a85a4032f483a38c733d5de5778247d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CR4KON4WTP65ZW2HEDTM4YWHKA.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"X23QZDD6GFG2LONH5XQDY5PFKM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":259,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/aea761d7-1f00-4397-8f1b-1cbb0131ce0c/versions/1741460660/media/7aef663894d6008fd2ccd48c1a0899ad_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-boss-simon-easterby-pinpoints-chances-not-taken-and-ones-given-up-too-easy/","content_elements":[{"_id":"MQ4MZGGF6FDQBG67S6PTK2PHBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s been a long, long time since an <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby\">Irish</a> team has been rolled over in such a lopsided manner, especially at home. The home team and the home crowd, who were even more comprehensively second best, were left reeling as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\">France</a> scored 34 unanswered points in a blue blur of power and pace.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JEMVH4NL6JFTJEHC25QL34TYUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Unbeaten at home in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\">Six Nations</a> since France won here behind closed doors in 2021, Ireland had seemed relatively well set, or at any rate highly competitive, when Dan Sheehan’s 43rd-minute try and Sam Prendergast’s touchline conversion put them 13-8 ahead. Even interim head coach Simon Easterby felt so too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UXAY73DQXBE5ZPQ2FJFOM3MMQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We felt like going in at half time 8-6 down, we were well in the game, and we were confident that if we started well – which we did – in the second half, we could kick on and make them pay, in terms of our fitness and our ability to go well in second halves, which we have done in previous games.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KZFZT6HLINDV3LW2ODDEJKC2YY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But, unfortunately, we probably didn’t take enough of our opportunities in their 22, and vice versa, we conceded too easily ourselves.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZJ7ITXU4VFCHPEQG2LWKMMF6NY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland can have few complaints after such a sound beating by a French team whose performance made their somewhat self-inflicted loss in Twickenham even more inexplicable. They have a points difference of +106, compared to Ireland’s +13, but more pertinently are also two points ahead of Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNUDR23HJZB6FLCT3UODJBKOMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hence, even if Ireland beat Italy with a bonus point in Rome in next Saturday’s first game of the final day’s triple header, a win of any hue at home to Scotland in the evening’s finale in Paris will guarantee France the title.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FU3K2PFYFASPC5WAQXCABWETE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Like many French teams, they are a brilliant side with momentum, although their flurry of 34 points began with a very contentious call by referee Angus Gardner, with little input from his assistants or the TMO. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DJHU4QBEM5H47BFR7PUEVDVAYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Paul Boudehent took a brilliant offload from Maxime Lucu and plunged over in the 47th minute, the French loosehead Jean-Baptiste Gros had paved the way with a pick and go through a gap created by Thibaud Flament taking out Peter O’Mahony beyond the ball. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CANO7PEJZDRFCJDGLFAPJHYWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The replays clearly indicated it was an illegal act by Flament, but somehow Gardner deduced that O’Mahony was “retreating backwards” and therefore, illogically, that this was no grounds for ruling out the try. Easterby clearly did not agree with Gardner’s interpretation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHWJCYAFW2GF5IOMEHIFI5K564","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"USP4SZBZYJHN7DYWEF5PTHKSD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We didn’t defend well enough in our 22, but certain things that happen in a game, in an instance like that, which are going to prevent someone from potentially making a tackle, and being in a position to try and stop that.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ID3E65RTMRFBNDSBHQJ7PTGXLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“All teams try and do it to a point, they try to create a bit of space through the ruck and that allows the next person to pick. It’s to judge whether that contact on Pete was close enough to the ruck for them to feel like it was legal, which is probably about three or four metres from the ruck. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTDWBPVAXFEFFAB6NMWP3DVTY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That’s something we’ll reflect on and feed back to Angus Gardner and his assistant referees, and obviously the TMO came in and felt like it was legal.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PEQBW7DFT5C65A6PEROXH7SWNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"What’s more, on a previous review after that Boudehent try, Gardner sinbinned Calvin Nash for a head-on-head collision with Pierre-Louis Barassi.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KEPKOBV3QRG5VLQDD6TBTPTM74","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It could have easily just gone as a rugby collision and it could easily have not resulted in a yellow card. But I think the incident with Pete happens in the same set of phases, so that’s not reflective of that try, being down to 14 men.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DBSAITIQJVEZZE2QNICZLQY6SE","additional_properties":{},"content":"France had scored five points during Joe McCarthy’s sinbinning in the first half for a clearcut and ill-advised off the ball tug on Thomas Ramos’s collar, and they added another 10 during Nash’s absence with the fleet-footed Louis Bielle-Barrey scoring tries in each spell against 14 men. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUIZAL52RBAMBCPKDXOYP6URII","additional_properties":{},"content":"Asked if his team had lacked composure after Boudehent’s try, Easterby said: “I don’t know about that. I think we were down a man and they probably got themselves in a position where they took advantage of that 15 against 14. We had it in the first half as well where we conceded a yellow card.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JH4DHJ3IXJAO3ILNUXOOACTIAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"5UL342MUGJFWTH3JMC32NKNH5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardner had also been excessively dismissive of Caelan Doris in his dealings with the Irish captain, once asking him if he knew the laws of the game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D2JVE2ORK5BWHOMFU7QUWMFVTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We spoke before the game about picking my moments and not bothering him too much,” said Doris afterwards. “I didn’t feel like I did that. I felt I only approached him a few couple of times early on but it’s always a balancing act and I thought it was okay.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"SETSYHQGEBBLPDBBSXJGD2YJ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gerry Thornley"}},"name":"Gerry Thornley"}]},"description":{"basic":"Interim head coach questions referee’s decision not to penalise France in lead-up to Paul Boudehent’s try "},"display_date":"2025-03-08T18:59:15.609Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland boss Simon Easterby pinpoints chances not taken and ones given up too easy","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KU6NYJK6MALFPGV4FHEY6EXPZA","auth":{"1":"7f1f109249eac66ca151cf6a27952c1b1bd273b71961f216a9d6750cb6ac948c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KU6NYJK6MALFPGV4FHEY6EXPZA.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-boss-simon-easterby-pinpoints-chances-not-taken-and-ones-given-up-too-easy/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"FZWHUWVZJBHDXIXD7Y7OPA2BCA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":223,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/815f2d4d-46be-43e9-b68c-cbe4b957698d/versions/1741458946/media/84366c9a2a82e541ea88a911ed6af524_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5OLVAD7ZC5BEDPPFUREGPRGX7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598497},"content":"Fabien Galthié was in no mood afterwards. The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\">France</a> coach pointedly didn’t take any questions in English but you didn’t need Duolingo to understand that he had a bone to pick. Losing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont\">Antoine Dupont</a> to a serious knee injury midway through the first half coloured his reaction to everything. His captain was in tears in the dressingroom, Pierre-Louis Barassi didn’t make it through a HIA. Galthié was annoyed on both counts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G2EZD7EAINC2XFG3LIUU5PA6FE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598498},"content":"“Our players did not return to the pitch,” he said. “We would like to understand why. On this issue, we are angry. We want to protect our players. There are means, [there are] rules. The [citing] commissioner must study the actions that are reprehensible or not. Neither Antoine nor Pierre-Louis returned to the pitch. One for a cleaning, the other for a contact.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J7DCHA6ZGVCX5NOMWZ4TWPHXTE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598499},"content":"“For Antoine, there is suspicion of a fairly serious knee injury. I won’t go into details due to medical confidentiality, but Antoine is suffering. We have cited players to appear before the [Six Nations disciplinary] committee – Tadhg Beirne and Andrew Porter. Calvin Nash has also been summoned before the committee, for Pierre-Louis Barassi because he did not respond favourably to the protocol.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZUGLDPXP25GYNDCP7X6LK2QRAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598500},"content":"“We feel bad for [Antoine]. In terms of the action, in my opinion it was reprehensible, and there are ways to study and analyse it. We feel for him today. He is suffering and we are suffering with him.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDOIMZZNT5BWLDSANT63OKBPBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598501},"content":"When Dupont went off, Grégory Alldritt took over as captain. He wasn’t as visibly disgruntled as his coach afterwards but he didn’t put a tooth in it either. Losing Dupont was a lot to take.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5WPOUXJ4YRATXL4XIZPNL5S5CY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598502},"content":"“At half-time, it’s hard to see a friend like that. It’s still complicated to talk about it … We felt anger, which served as fuel for the second half.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PXQKQ7BGNREQLLNDYB3G2NCHIM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598503},"content":"Do they have cause? It’s incredibly hard to say either way. The incident itself isn’t clearcut and the intent or otherwise is probably in the eye of the beholder. The French were understandably aggrieved to see their star man and spiritual leader go off and to find him in crying in the dressingroom. But inferring deliberate foul play from Beirne and Porter? That seems a stretch.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDZSQMS6LNCYPINTO64ZJECBGE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598504},"content":"“I think it’s just a rugby incident where Tadhg cleans out someone in front of Antoine Dupont and he gets hit on the back of that,” said Ireland head coach Simon Easterby. “You know, this happens unfortunately. We have definitely moved away and players have a real awareness now of cleaning out on the lower limb of a player, which can create the type of injury that might have happened today. But that wasn’t the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYKXXWQRHFEQRN4PEGV756BY4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598505},"content":"“He was securing his own ball and not making contact on Dupont and unfortunately that happens. The guy that Tadhg hit was hit on to Dupont and it’s just one of those things unfortunately. It happens in a game. I’ll probably have to look back on it again but we feel like the right decision was made there.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EC2XD2P4PZDRBO43D2AGXEUO7E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598506},"content":"In the end, they didn’t need either Dupont or Barassi to see it out. France saw Ireland’s good start to the second half and raised it a level. Their 7/1 split was a risk and it looked dicey at times, particularly with the injuries. But the bench did its job, as Alldritt acknowledged.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7P56WLO7FEVBEP6TQZQM5L54U","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598507},"content":"“We knew it was going to be a tough second half but we had a lot of confidence in the bench. They had a big, big entry against Italy and they did another good job today. The contract was to play for 50 minutes and to leave everything on the pitch and then they would come on and finish the job. And I think it worked quite well today.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Malachy Clerkin"}},"name":"Malachy Clerkin"}]},"description":{"basic":"France have cited Tadhg Beirne and Andrew Porter for the incident that injured the French captain"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T18:30:38.823Z","headlines":{"basic":"Fabien Galthié: ‘We feel bad for Dupont. In terms of the action, in my opinion it was reprehensible’ ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"4ETYB3SEQOTRLL4UBSD6LOUP4Q","auth":{"1":"0ccfbf99e04493ffce1175d2d8cf540cc5f06d9ef5c92795445879ac4f0b190f"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/4ETYB3SEQOTRLL4UBSD6LOUP4Q.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"KR3NZ7M5FVANPCXDV2PTVS4O4U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":132,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/10780232-d7fb-42e7-9243-c862775d1698/versions/1741453908/media/2ac49812a8d9fdeb6ce1e84406f1eef0_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/james-lowe-sorely-missed-as-ireland-forced-to-go-without-his-extensive-bag-of-tricks/","content_elements":[{"_id":"U6CLF5EUORAJVH6LD24NVVMZCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211068},"content":"Half an hour before the beginning of the match <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-lowe/\" target=\"_self\">James Lowe</a> was warming up with a group of Irish players simulating a ruck move. Lowe took no obvious hard contact but fell to the ground on his back. He immediately began to appear in some discomfort and raised his hands to cover his face.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNZXFWSPMVFIHC3VRRHFRBPOR4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211069},"content":"A trainer came over and a disconsolate looking Lowe was escorted slowly away from the pitch and down the tunnel.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNPZZM63ZNFDFAFJ7RPLT3NZKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211071},"content":"Conformation from the Irish management arrived soon after that Lowe had suffered a back spasm and would not be able to start against France. He was replaced by Calvin Nash, who started in the number 11 jersey.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDCJRUHJ65H6ROKRUDSVWX7G6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211070},"content":"French power game blows Ireland off the park as Grand Slam hopes obliterated","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"CTSVCHZWI5CPNP3AMQZDYD56P4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211072},"content":"Losing Lowe was an enormous blow for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\" target=\"_self\">Ireland</a> in their toughest match of this <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\" target=\"_self\">Six Nations</a>. He may wear the 11 shirt, but he has always been much more than a winger to the team.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M66LQGPF7REUREBLCSHWQDHTKU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211073},"content":"His left boot, his natural strength on the ball, his abrasive defensive work, his ability to find the try line and, as fans saw against Wales, his beautiful timing when he rose to meet a kicked ball that was going out and tapped it back to Jamie Osborne for a try.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7PXW3EDYWWM3CGQKSTYIGJOVUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211074},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PWQNEV5Z2JHDBJTUN6KUQVDY5Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211075},"content":"Lowe is also a bundle of energy for the team and his fearless hunger to become involved in matches means that he is an ever-ready presence whether cleaning out at rucks or making last ditch tackles in defence. He also scored a try against Scotland pointing to his dangerous presence for all his 39 caps.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GVT4BOLVH5DMJG2GCGTZIUMJZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211076},"content":"Although Nash, who had nine caps before the match, came in at short notice, Ireland were not replacing like with like. The talented Munster winger plays a more conventional way out wide and although he was effective in other ways, Ireland missed Lowe’s robust knock around game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GQYXEH3WVFB43BHT2G43FZWSEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211077},"content":"Ireland 27 France 42: How the Irish players rated at the Aviva Stadium","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HQSJD6TANZCOPOEZY4WTKUEWNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211078},"content":"The yellow card aside, Nash was busy and involved, but missing such a key player who scores tries hurt, especially in the dominant first quarter when Ireland might have moved the scoreboard but could not.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WSPUTQRQ5FCJNK2LJ7ZKWZVF3U","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211079},"content":"It has been said during this campaign, when things have not panned out as expected, that Ireland are a good team in the face of adversity and manage to get the job done. They faced adversity against a very strong French side and came up short.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUUU5XNSGBCM3CKCO7WE5735ZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211080},"content":"Lowe’s prematch injury may not have changed the outcome, but his regular gutsy contribution was missed by Ireland.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Johnny Watterson"}},"name":"Johnny Watterson"}]},"description":{"basic":"Calvin Nash called into action shortly before kick-off after Lowe went down injured during the warm-up"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T17:06:44.344Z","headlines":{"basic":"James Lowe sorely missed as Ireland forced to go without his extensive bag of tricks","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6XZQ4EIGU4TCVMU7L6RHAG3EEI","auth":{"1":"485be29c2f226b0b84ebf9577684811e4b49a1827ee2a97fa69709bd4073791d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6XZQ4EIGU4TCVMU7L6RHAG3EEI.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/james-lowe-sorely-missed-as-ireland-forced-to-go-without-his-extensive-bag-of-tricks/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"4HCWO2RBPNBLPHJGI6RU4YCJD4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":603,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/6726cc52-9c66-4c3d-9e27-26e3166e2dbc/versions/1741453495/media/d1d6eef314bf40d4be80dfd55d39b789_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/french-power-game-blows-ireland-off-the-park-as-grand-slam-hopes-obliterated/","content_elements":[{"_id":"MLKG2ZK3FZDQXGJGENRCCKELPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six Nations: Ireland 27 France 42","type":"header"},{"_id":"M32K7THYCZGFHF6MCYPBR7GNZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france\">France</a> put <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland\">Ireland</a> to the sword and utterly obliterated hopes of a Grand Slam, also ending any realistic designs on a historic three-peat next weekend. What’s more, France did so despite losing their talisman early in the piece, so shredding any notion that they might be overly dependent on <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont\">Antoine Dupont</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NMKDOQZJFCCJCTYLX6CXY3WTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite one of their battery of backrowers also playing much of the second half in midfield, France’s 7-1 split reaped a rich dividend as their amalgam of power and pace shredded Ireland in the third quarter. Ireland just do not have finishers like the jet-heeled Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Damian Penaud.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SYPOW5FPNVHRDIHC63LFFQKRIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Their defence also smashed Ireland in the collisions, and the injection of the Bomb Squad did not dilute this in any way. Their backrow were immense, particularly Paul Boudehent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSOGPZ4EGNGGFD5W5YGH7UX6XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It might have been a different game if Ireland had scored early but the ferocious tempo set by Ireland as they dominated possession and territory in the opening quarter crucially went unrewarded. Unlike the game two years ago, this high tempo did not reap some dues later on, even though the home side led 13-8 early in the second half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4M5UCLQWYFFDXCVJHV7F4YFRWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"But a stunning 24-point salvo in 12 minutes by France turned the game on its head and with it the crowd’s soundtrack, as Les Bleus ultimately scored 34 unanswered points before a couple of late consolation scores brought a modicum of respectability to the scoreline.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LGD624FEXVEFHAMA2OCLZW73UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, as much as this was monumental day for France, it was a very sobering one for a comparatively blunt Ireland, who looked comparatively short of pace and power.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFBVBERKCQBGBUHTTYC56NJB5M","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NS457QLUC5ELLDLJ5HRVAVLLPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The build-up was given an additional, unwanted twist when James Lowe pulled up after what seemed an innocuous drill in the warm-up and was withdrawn, to be replaced by Calvin Nash. This felt like a significant blow, and was relayed to the paying customers just after the game started.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7U3EGCCNEZF4DJ27LLNAA6LYQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"As chants of ‘Allez Les Bleus’ filled the brief lulls from the prematch music, over 40 minutes later the 8-6 scoreline in France’s favour didn’t come close to reflecting the unrelenting intensity or eventfulness of the exchanges.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7W6JRRQM6NGKVPF3EV2O3PPJE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland dominated the first quarter, but four visits to the French 22, including a couple of penalties to the corner and multiphase attacks off ensuing launch plays met a ferocious blue wall. Dan Sheehan was tackled just short of the line by Francois Cros and then again after his tap penalty, before Caelan Doris was held up over the line superbly by a combination of Peato Mauvaka and Grégory Alldritt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FYB4Z7HXBNGQ3MPYXKBECMPR2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sam Prendergast hit the upright with a 40-metre penalty and this seemed to be briefly compounded for Ireland when France repelled a 13-phase attack with increasing vigour and Penaud had Dupont in support from an ensuing turnover. But replays showed that Dupont had knocked the ball forward in deflecting Hugo Keenan’s pass to Jamie Osborne.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NBESPS6YYNB7LAOQYIFE2RVIL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Initially, Ireland put together some strong defensive sets featuring a couple of superb turnovers by Doris, but France struck with their first launch play in the French 22. It emanated from Dupont and Romain Ntamack countering from Osborne’s long kick by recognising space on the edge before Ramos linked with the fleet-footed Bielle-Biarrey to kick ahead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7KLXLEMAJDJXIO4MBVLGYINHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He was slightly tugged by Prendergast, but far more blatant and ill-advised was Joe McCarthy tugging Ramos by the back of his collar. The yellow card was inevitable and it almost felt like the try was too as the French catch-and-drive rumbled forward before Dupont peeled blind to put Bielle-Biarrey over in the corner.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEE4ZJCAPGP2PRTQKZCHG64C2E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"C2UGJ4BALJBXDE7VDKZBXHWAGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"As La Marseillaise echoed around the stadium, the only consolation for Ireland was that Ramos missed the touchline conversion. French confidence rose, evidenced by Bielle-Biarrey’s outrageous and audacious kick-pass across his own goal line to Penaud. Ireland held out the remainder of McCarthy’s sinbinning, during which Dupont was helped off to be replaced by Maxime Lucu.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YYMBVK6K3NHGLOM4XPIEL43WRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"This was the consequence of Sheehan turning a loose lineout into go-forward ball with a big carry, Dupont tackling him and then going down when Tadhg Beirne made a clearout. It looked legal, and didn’t seem malicious at all, although there might have been a slight side entry, and both Dupont and Alldritt made their complaints known to referee Angus Gardner. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RKX23BCE4ZAZHARXJ6MWPY23AA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prendergast did open Ireland’s account with a penalty but this was immediately cancelled out by a very soft penalty, supposedly against Andrew Porter, seemingly given by Matthew Carley for blocking Penaud’s chase of the ensuing restart, for Ramos to make it 8-6.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OT2ZZFVIMZA4DJI3G7563XCCDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Penaud needlessly took a quick throw which Ramos kicked away and then dallied near his own line and Prendergast ended the first half with a monstrous penalty from just inside halfway with the last kick of the half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"47YHWLIQLFEEHFCWCR23XZPUVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the resumption, Ireland struck. Prendergast tapped a penalty against Jean-Baptiste Gros for a lazy run and Sheehan hit Beirne for the pack to set up a quick maul which inched forward before the hooker arrowed over by the corner flag through Lucu.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BOHFM5LUIBBERJCFYYYA5LUZXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Championship minutes and all that. When Prendergast landed the touchline conversion for a 13-8 lead Ireland seemed well set but the French response was ominously swift and imposing, their close-in power game culminating in Gros offloading inventively in traffic for Lucu, who did the same for Boudehent to score. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ST4FRNC5AZCQDPIAGU5X6FRU5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardner curiously did not interpret Thibaud Flament’s clear-out beyond the ball on O’Mahony to be illegal while Nash was also binned for a head-on-head hit on Pierre-Louis Barassi. And how France, to the delight of their more vociferous contingent of about 10,000 colourfully clad supporters, made hay.","type":"text"},{"_id":"447UMECXGJW2TPSSBSV2JRIHUA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"IXNQORTIX5AXVNIPFPAF4AJFIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The introduction of five of their Bomb Squad then had an immediate impact as France counter-rucked for turnover ball and Lucu fed Penaud, in his element in such circumstances. He weaved untouched deep into Ireland’s defence before floating a long pass to Bielle-Biarrey. With most mortals, there’d have been nothing on, but the jet-heeled winger set off, grubbered infield into the in-goal area and sped past covering defenders to win the touchdown just before the end-goal line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AMBI25MKBNGLLKGWRK7AMXDWCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"That felt like pretty much game over and after a Ramos penalty that was certainly the case when another power play culminated in Oscar Jegou, the openside ostensibly playing in midfield, plunging over. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWTOTXX5ANBQDK6MILNOMJEAJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ramos converted and added a penalty before Ireland’s noses were rubbed in the grass when they created extra numbers but Prendergast’s short pass intended for Robbie Henshaw for a walk-in was picked off by Ramos and he gave Penaud a run-in from halfway to equal Serge Blanco’s all-time French record of 38 tries. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DQKEQIQCFFBSBASOCUWOOCIDWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"That 14-point turnaround gave the scoreline a distorted look, but Ireland at least kept their heads up and kept going.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ERBPKLRPCFG5JLXFVFIW3R66OU","additional_properties":{},"content":"First Cian Healy rolled back the years to take a pass from the other centurion bidding farewell and plough through two defenders. Then Prendergast and Jack Crowley combined for Jack Conan to touchdown in the game’s final play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DQ6OZB2HXBB5NHJHXKNJV5UDOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"But it was the French fans who continued to sing loudest, as they had done all day, and also, despite presentations to the three centurions, to linger longer. This was their day. And how.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VE25LWGWTBGQPPUKMMLFJYCAQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>SCORING SEQUENCE – 21 mins: </b>Bielle-Biarrey<b> </b>try, 0-5; <b>35:</b> Prendergast pen, 3-5; <b>36:</b> Ramos pen, 3-8; <b>40+3:</b> Prendergast pen, 6-8 (<b>half-time 6-8</b>); <b>43:</b> Sheehan try, Prendergast con, 13-8; <b>47:</b> Boudehent try, Ramons con, 13-15; <b>49:</b> Bielle-Biarrey<b> </b>try, Ramos con, 13-22; <b>56:</b> Ramos pen, 13-25; <b>59:</b> Jegou try, Ramos con, 13-32; <b>68: </b>Ramos pen, 13-35; <b>74: </b>Penaud, Ramos con, 13-42; <b>77:</b> Healy try, Prendergast con, 20-42; <b>80:</b> Conan try, Prendergast con, 27-42. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XREIOM56W5FQHDJ7ZYLNRUDNL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND: </b>Hugo Keenan (Leinster); Jamie Osborne (Leinster), Robbie Henshaw (Leinster), Bundee Aki (Connacht), Calvin Nash (Munster); Sam Prendergast (Leinster), Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster); Andrew Porter (Leinster), Dan Sheehan (Leinster), Finlay Bealham (Connacht); Joe McCarthy (Leinster), Tadhg Beirne (Munster); Peter O’Mahony (Munster), Josh van der Flier (Leinster), Caelan Doris (Leinster, capt).","type":"text"},{"_id":"5T63Y3EF3BH55DUX5X352POYYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> Jack Conan (Leinster) for O’Mahony, Ryan Baird (Leinster) for Van der Flier (both 48 mins); Jack Crowley (Munster) for Aki (55); James Ryan (Leinster) for McCarthy (57); Thomas Clarkson (Leinster) for Bealham (59); Van der Flier for Doris (65-75); Cian Healy (Leinster) for Porter, Rob Herring (Ulster) for Sheehan, Conor Murray (Munster) for Gibson-Park (all 68). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DA545CSVFBCKBCYVEHBNIGCTRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Yellow cards: </b>McCarthy (20 mins), Nash (47).","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVS52QMNHFAG7KOYUWXD5QM4QY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>FRANCE: </b>Thomas<b> </b>Ramos (Toulouse); Damien Penaud (Bordeaux-Bègles), Pierre-Louis Barassi (Toulouse), Yoram Moefana (Bordeaux-Bègles), Louis Bielle-Biarrey (Bordeaux-Bègles); Romain Ntamack (Toulouse), Antoine Dupont (Toulouse, capt); Jean-Baptiste Gros (Toulon), Peato Mauvaka (Toulouse), Uini Atonio (La Rochelle); Thibaud Flament (Toulouse), Mickaël Guillard; François Cros (Toulouse), Paul Boudehent (La Rochelle), Grégory Alldritt (La Rochelle).","type":"text"},{"_id":"25T4WUJSM5D45NGJ34BXJLJANI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements: </b>Maxime Lucu (Bordeaux-Bègles) for Dupont (29 mins); Oscar Jegou (La Rochelle) for Barassi (46); Julien Marchand (Toulouse) for Mauvaka, Cyril Baille (Toulouse) for Gros, Emmanuel Meafou (Toulouse) for Guillard, Dorian Aldegheri (Toulouse) for Atonio, Anthony Jelonch (Toulouse) for Alldritt (all 48); Hugo Auradou (Pau) for Flament (75).","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVBSSHIFW5GSZDR23YXMJCZUBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Yellow card:</b> Cros (73).","type":"text"},{"_id":"374NMBJHUZCGBLZ4NQL76SGXTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> Angus Gardner (Australia).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gerry Thornley"}},"name":"Gerry Thornley"}]},"description":{"basic":"A stunning 24-point salvo in 12 minutes by France turned the game on its head"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T16:58:29.639Z","headlines":{"basic":"French power game blows Ireland off the park as Grand Slam hopes obliterated","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"36CW7XETITSHKRKNOFC5C6Y67Y","auth":{"1":"7a9f7477a78e9a226ef077a03527646825e16754b8cbab65afa3840a3f5a6bb8"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/36CW7XETITSHKRKNOFC5C6Y67Y.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/french-power-game-blows-ireland-off-the-park-as-grand-slam-hopes-obliterated/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"3YONCDTEFRAZ3DDPC7BJGZKW7A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":212,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/1168f0fd-d91f-4505-9422-e415e17917fe/versions/1741452397/media/f2e48d9b5972944b658642c3e5dc4010_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-27-france-42-how-the-irish-players-rated-at-the-aviva-stadium/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HCIFDCJ2XNFKZOMQHEFB53K5BA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hugo Keenan","type":"header"},{"_id":"PIJZTKREBZAMTAPP65EVKENUOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Straightened up a nice run early. As always busy coming forward and running lines. Kept the high energy levels until the end of the match. Good in the air. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NBPKAZLHZAC7L3YRZWNZA4QYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating:</b> 7","type":"text"},{"_id":"B6ZIXLHECVBKJDXDCXNAQECNR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jamie Osborne","type":"header"},{"_id":"D3RDHII7JRCMTNVC5W343WTAIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Good one-on tackle on Barassi. Some nice left-boot clearances and great kick and chase on Penaud at the end of the first half. High energy levels throughout.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KD5YAU2VZFHBK3SNPNGQJCNCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating:</b> 6","type":"text"},{"_id":"HS54W7745JBV3CMV3BEFDEIJUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Robbie Henshaw","type":"header"},{"_id":"2OCWXLIE5RDPLPTFSEEW6BALZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"As ever, in the thick of things. His mobility and abrasive game coming up trumps around the pitch. Again, punching through was difficult against this French team.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFT65W3APNGX3BKLGMF3BT6LW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating:</b> 6","type":"text"},{"_id":"HTHYV275QNGB7P4TSIHRIKEI5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bundee Aki","type":"header"},{"_id":"233PTK2L4BBGVMEY6UEJWUOHXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Took a boot to the face early in the game but didn’t deviate from his physical brand of play. Excellent French defence made life difficult to find go-forward gaps.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JCN52VJE45AKTAZHMSCJBBIIHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"SPU2OK7KUFEC3A7N7QAQDDR4J4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Calvin Nash ","type":"header"},{"_id":"2ACJYIK7FZEFLB56EO6HVXY3PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Took a great early high ball which brought him into the game and kept himself involved throughout. High tackle for a yellow card gave him 10 minutes in the bin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZS4VGH6WWZG7LD2UCFV7FKK7H4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"YSDWMWQYZVB75JIQSJNDAMXHQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sam Prendergast","type":"header"},{"_id":"AFO26SQ7PZHUVAA46QHK2LMMM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Followed a missed kick with a bullseye and then one from the halfway line. Did a lot of good things and had poise. Will regret Ramos interception late in the match. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"577EONTH4FGI7GZ64GB3YI5XPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOSHCKQLDFBWRFFIECMCKFD6Y4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jamison Gibson-Park","type":"header"},{"_id":"O5CLLQ4VTBARLPSQMXCTIYHYPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Flicked around as he normally does, forcing the tempo and box kicking. Was blocked once and played a lot of the game with the French in his face.","type":"text"},{"_id":"733ZKUHMP5HS5EPABZ25W7NJDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"PP7LLPB4RJFODJEAIRVC5LL2BU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Andrew Porter","type":"header"},{"_id":"FHNDFWAVTJEA5JBJOKK6FDWK4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"High-energy contribution and took hard carries when Ireland were pressing for a score. The scrum was solid and strong close-range tackling and cleanouts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWB5V6ED45GGVJG4NRNMZOYZSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"3WV67IU4RBFJVIWEWACR7MI3RM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ACTNE45IH5EOTJE7AGQUO4T4ZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dan Sheehan","type":"header"},{"_id":"DKMJYE425NDD7MIMS3P2QUXTXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He took his try well in typical style from the back of a lineout maul. Tackled all day until replaced but would have liked more ball in hand to show off his running game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R2ANYJBPQZGOZGO4WZKJXX5A3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"VYGE3BKQW5FSBHYS4O4LUB434Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finlay Bealham","type":"header"},{"_id":"7AHTFYTDP5EXVEFQFBYFZ2PFYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Busy first half and offered himself for tough yard work. The scrum was good too. Got his hand on the ball plenty but it was a hard day to make inroads.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y66GB6575RBQJEDH5FNIT4KAHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"HB5KT3WQGZBEDAZUKGH7IHIC5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Joe McCarthy","type":"header"},{"_id":"66QNTU43KVDO5JY72O7HI57OYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"A silly yellow card in the first half that everybody saw. Good lineout option and aggressive around the pitch both with his carries and making one-up tackles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5EH4KZCC4VECHNOK26R7ATMM5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"7GTHMR4F7VFCHDSPN2FLJQ5YZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tadhg Beirne","type":"header"},{"_id":"6FYRGRRXWBGCVPBVK4DJLMJWCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The lineout worked and he was a good Irish option there. Made some big tackles, notably on Thomas Ramos in the first half, and ground away in the engine room.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJR6BNZASZDIVNSLXQKN3SVLWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>7","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEE4ZJCAPGP2PRTQKZCHG64C2E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"EYXB6GHRORHZTFIRSPD6ZCUHUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Peter O’Mahony","type":"header"},{"_id":"3ZAKTX3PRZC2FOFGZV6YUEZ4KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Caught lineout balls, carried when he could and tackled from the beginning of the match. Kept his work rate high until replaced by Baird in the second half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXCGKN5Z6VH3PD5XO67PKWLMEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"WFWV26SUKRCWRKIYEBUFAZWGJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Josh van der Flier","type":"header"},{"_id":"IEIPGB5WXRBR5GJK3QVAVIMUPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Showed early, taking the ball on when Ireland dominated. Close in tackling and disruption made French life difficult. Would have liked more ball in hand.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WGNXLWYQ3RGSLBDYWOUDDXEG7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"PGZ44SN4M5EM5P3ZKRCKB5JFUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Caelan Doris (capt)","type":"header"},{"_id":"GWHV7GA4OZDX7CMYVANVZS56D4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Was Ireland’s principle ball carrier throughout the match. Made the line too in the first half but could not ground the ball. Led well against a strong French side.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5T2O7IHRZVGJVIYFUGMNLPXJ4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>7","type":"text"},{"_id":"RAAGU5VR5RFSVL2XS6L56YDE7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Replacements","type":"header"},{"_id":"C5FPRUMJVJD47C2S3CHH2LGUXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A few tries went in at the end of the match from Jack Conan and Cian Healy but really the contest was over by then and to get the game back was a tough ask.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UTCUKHAWUFHSRLTT7XOVUG56AU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6W5FS36GZD53KV6W6N7NK5DXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Head coach – Simon Easterby","type":"header"},{"_id":"TSS4ZXX4CZE6FIOLH3AOZYZSW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Had a patch-up job to do before the match with James Lowe limping out. Had the team well prepared for the opening stages but no penetration during their dominant spell.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZOP3LCWM6FDLJH7EX7GAMALBJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Johnny Watterson"}},"name":"Johnny Watterson"}]},"description":{"basic":"Two yellow cards had Ireland on the back foot for most of the game"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T16:41:21.788Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland 27 France 42: How the Irish players rated at the Aviva Stadium ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7DZ4QG4QCYIWEKZQLWXNHFIDHM","auth":{"1":"a0059e16db81cb51748c013115176d1f149baebc8a81a16cddbc65db1043b66b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7DZ4QG4QCYIWEKZQLWXNHFIDHM.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-27-france-42-how-the-irish-players-rated-at-the-aviva-stadium/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"7PXCAX7DV5GWRDF72IZCAP3V4Q","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":48,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/f8541e1a-da8d-420a-bebe-d1a9feac2dc5/versions/1741450731/media/760f6600e1b4c5946cb1d1dd73752a0e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/08/ellen-walshe-breaks-longest-standing-irish-record-in-200m-butterfly/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ellen-walshe/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ellen-walshe/\">Ellen Walshe</a> has broken the longest-standing Irish swimming record at the Leinster Aspiring Champions Meet in Dublin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNVRAMRPDRCWPKQLZ5F6BECVFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 23-year-old clocked 2:08.42 in the 200m butterfly event to best Michelle Smith’s long course record (2:09.91) which has stood since August 20th, 1996.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LSG7JRP25BD5JEQS7QJUZBCLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Templeogue swimmer now holds four national senior long course records, having previously set Irish records in the 100m butterfly and 200m and 400m IM.","type":"text"},{"_id":"THVEJUSGGJAUZK5HKXUUWLVEKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"She also holds five Irish short course (25m) records; the 100m and 200m butterfly, and 100m, 200m and 400m IM.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Muireann Duffy"}},"name":"Muireann Duffy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Templeogue swimmer bests long course record held by Michelle Smith since 1996"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T16:13:43.043Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ellen Walshe breaks longest-standing Irish record in 200m butterfly","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BYDGYL2KFBCW5IP75DCOS5HVG4","auth":{"1":"14fc9879a93b01db983ef593f47de908fc138fb6d419d41f650c8ee8830efbf4"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BYDGYL2KFBCW5IP75DCOS5HVG4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/08/ellen-walshe-breaks-longest-standing-irish-record-in-200m-butterfly/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"HOLN72SFO5EA5GURY5ENFCWHPE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":165,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/e81aa973-2c0c-46cf-85d3-31d5cb1cce4a/versions/1741437531/media/19e129826b0db1b4ba686e78cebf83c9_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/match-days-will-never-be-the-same-again-brendan-cummins-voice-of-meath-gaa-dies-aged-76/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KCEWETAQFNGPPFHS7LI4FGX3EQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The death has occurred of the voice of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/meath-gaa/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/meath-gaa/\">Meath GAA</a> Brendan Cummins at the age of 76.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YPF5OJCNRBEZRGRIFTFAJQYBBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Cummins, who had been ill for some time, was head of sport at LMFM from 1992 until 2017. The Dunsany clubman, who died on Friday, was the public relations officer for Meath County Board from 1988 to 2009. He retired from full-time employment with LMFM in 2017 but retained his work as a commentator with the station.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTQ477J6XFFX3PXKKBFX63XFZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement Meath County Board said Mr Cummins “leaves behind a rich legacy”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FF5JKM3S5DNVLXSSGHX2P3HWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Match days will never be the same again without Brendan on commentary duty but no doubt he along with his former colleague in LMFM, the late Kevin Mallon will be commentating in their own inimitable fashion from heaven.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XTTWE5AFJZBODPPK2HOJHKCCKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"They offered their condolences to the Cummins family – Mr Cummins' daughter Mairead, his siblings Mary and Nuala and all his extended family.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGH2LAWBZ5FCZPFNANH2IX7UEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"LMFM said their much-loved colleague did a huge amount of work above and beyond his role in commentary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SVEMCTJP6BAN3A4OLMGGW54QCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He presented the weekday sports bulletins, weekend sports shows and also provided cover on the popular Sunday Morning request show.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GY6CXNIDUZA6RB2CXBUSDUO5ZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It said that Mr Cummins was also one of Meath GAA’s most “highly respected officials and served in numerous roles on the county board”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GY2JSXHQOFB6NCGBZED7NTLEAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, Dunsany GAA said in a statement that the Cummins family played a pivotal role in the club’s founding.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LOND5RTW3ZF4BCXKY6L3C4NA6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Gaelic football ran deep in his family. His father, Jack, was on the first Meath team to reach an All-Ireland final in 1939 and helped found Dunsany GFC in 1963, with Brendan’s brother, Pat, on the inaugural team. Brendan – known as ‘Sput’ – played for an unofficial Dunsany side in 1962 before becoming a regular with the fledgling club.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JHETKQXVPRDTDM2QTDWHNCC6XA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Cummins represented Meath at minor level in 1966 and 1967, playing corner-forward and later centre half-forward in Leinster championship matches. In 1970, he lined out for the Meath senior team in O’Byrne Cup and challenge games.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GNO5KTR5ZFBETIV3JKPPQYYBLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He served as Meath GAA’s long-time public relations officer during the Sean Boylan era, also holding roles as fixtures secretary and delegate to both Leinster and central councils.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RMSGJX3TH5F4BBTSH5ZLVSERUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Though he moved to Wilkinstown after marrying the late Margaret McKeown, he remained deeply connected to Dunsany, serving as a club delegate, committee member and club president at his passing.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Olivia Kelly"}},"name":"Olivia Kelly"}]},"description":{"basic":"LMFM commentator leaves behind a rich legacy, says Meath County Board"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T12:33:42.087Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘Match days will never be the same again’: Brendan Cummins, voice of Meath GAA, dies aged 76","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"J2DF3VBPYJHOPFMM47RDCTU7ZY","auth":{"1":"fe7d1401ae97c64cc6064d7625299441558e797fbb99644dca9e9c92ba944f96"},"focal_point":{"x":1096,"y":529},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/J2DF3VBPYJHOPFMM47RDCTU7ZY.jpeg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/match-days-will-never-be-the-same-again-brendan-cummins-voice-of-meath-gaa-dies-aged-76/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"NG5DTC4OHNCI3NUZR63JGTIUPA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":113,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/07a6d705-2bcc-4d59-be6f-fd7eb992994e/versions/1741436990/media/e071ea9f224d560510e07811f02ad813_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/stuart-pearce-recovering-in-hospital-after-health-scare-on-transatlantic-flight/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UT4SAJXAJVHQRJ263JKCVRS6JY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Former England and Nottingham Forest defender Stuart Pearce suffered a medical emergency on board a flight from Las Vegas to Heathrow and is being treated in hospital, according to reports.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UNKYQDDIW5AM5HNFJ266XDXA6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Virgin Atlantic flight was diverted to St John’s in Canada, with medical staff boarding the plane to assist the 62-year-old, who had been in the United States to attend the Super League match between Wigan and Warrington last Saturday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7X7EC3JBWFCBHG6BR63N2U7ROQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A statement from Virgin said: “Due to an unwell customer on-board, the VS156 on 2 March flying from Las Vegas to London Heathrow diverted to St John’s International Airport, Canada and was met by the medical services.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSUCPWSY5VBCNFCIJYHTVYLUPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pearce is recovering in hospital in Canada, the Sun newspaper reported.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UD3E365LQRGIHK3V3WGUAVZMQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The flight, which was carrying 255 passengers, took off at 8:45pm local time and, following its diversion, arrived in London six hours behind schedule.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6HIMOHCK7FDAFPFMQSWZKHXEVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pearce, who now works as a pundit for TalkSport, won 78 caps for England and played in the semi-finals of the 1990 World Cup, in which he missed a penalty in the shoot-out defeat to West Germany, and of Euro 96.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6E7LPQQIFRFQ7OPJZ7TVMH4ZOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He scored in the shoot-out win over Spain and defeat to Germany at Euro 96, with his celebration of his successful spot-kick against the Spanish becoming of the defining images of the tournament.","type":"text"},{"_id":"26DGHY3ZSJGTPMTOEXBUUQ2K2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"He made 401 appearances for Nottingham Forest during a 12-year stint and also played for Coventry, Newcastle, West Ham and Manchester City, whom he later managed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CUGHQKX3NBDFLE725BUFE5YFDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"He spent six years as manager of England under-21s and served as caretaker manager of the senior team for one game. He also coached Britain men’s team at the London 2012 Olympics.","type":"text"},{"_id":"35EQ3MP63RHVXBZ732GZLRZTLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"His last job in football was as a part of David Moyes’s coaching staff at West Ham, a role he left in 2022.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"The Virgin Atlantic flight from Las Vegas to London had to be diverted to Canada"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T12:24:45.382Z","headlines":{"basic":"Stuart Pearce recovering in hospital after health scare on transatlantic flight","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OSWIBXY3AHVETXYHTUXOWIONMA","auth":{"1":"9dac99ea6527753868bca722cb110b2b19be168d38ef64514f6af7ebfd968cdc"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OSWIBXY3AHVETXYHTUXOWIONMA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/stuart-pearce-recovering-in-hospital-after-health-scare-on-transatlantic-flight/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"F2CBZKIJJZBI3GH45IX72YCCR4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":376,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/32faf68f-d6c6-40cb-a057-c536d15aa059/versions/1741373455/media/e258143fb663d6940ff077f5334b5323_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/08/malachy-clerkin-cheltenhams-thrill-is-gone-as-the-best-stories-are-replaced-by-the-betting-the-betting-the-betting/","content_elements":[{"_id":"VG4E3O246BEIFDWT3FEO6NWLU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival/\">Cheltenham </a>week always divides people, like one of those American high school movies. Over in this corner, you have the real horsey folk, sturdy footwear mucking up the floor and the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/racing-post/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/racing-post/\">Racing Post </a>spread out in front of them. Over in that one, you have the punters, cynical bastards when it comes to basically everything in life except hopeful word of a tip. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZYOM2U553ND7TFEW5ZI7VIZDHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Out the back, you have the sneers who make a point of declaring themselves above it all. I have friends who will watch any sport on any channel at any time and yet Cheltenham leaves them utterly cold. Horse racing in general, come to that. “Competitive farming,” was how one described it, delighted with himself.","type":"text"},{"_id":"USZNB4WIGFAWFJQNTBQPXMDGMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the middle, you have the floating sports fan, wandering free, trying to find a place to fit in. The great English <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/gaelic-football/tipping-point-mayo-will-have-enough-chances-taking-them-is-another-matter-1.3215977\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/gaelic-football/tipping-point-mayo-will-have-enough-chances-taking-them-is-another-matter-1.3215977\">sportswriter Simon Barnes </a>liked to quote from <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2023/10/04/what-happens-in-vegas-stays-in-vegas-but-my-night-with-u2-will-stay-with-me-forever/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2023/10/04/what-happens-in-vegas-stays-in-vegas-but-my-night-with-u2-will-stay-with-me-forever/\">Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas </a>when people asked him what his favourite sport was to cover. When the stoned attorney in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/hunter-s-thompson/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/hunter-s-thompson/\">Hunter S Thompson</a>’s book claims to be a professional motorcyclist, he is asked what team he rides for. “The really big f**kers,” comes the reply.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VMFMSX5NLRCAFHHXIRHO5HRNBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Well,” writes Barnes in his timeless book The Meaning of Sport, “when it comes to watching sport and when it comes to writing about sport, I like the really big f**kers”. By which he means the Olympics, World Cups, Wimbledons, the Ashes and so on. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SXMRQ4SRS5AUFET75WXKKNHF4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"And if we’re all honest about it, isn’t that what most of us are into? Grassroots, yes. Club game, sure. Friday night curry chips and a moan at the ref in the rain, absolutely. But when all comes to all and you have a couple of hours of your packed and varied life parcelled away for a bit of sporting release, it’s the really big f**kers that get us jiggy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TQYW5VI4JC7NFJA4US7C23RUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cheltenham easily falls into that bracket. Capital R, capital B, capital F. It has long since eaten jumps racing whole and it takes the eye of the regular world in a way the rest of the game can’t. It’s horse racing for people who aren’t really into horse racing. Every sport needs an event like it, an easy shortcut into a whole subculture.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7LNTKORJZRGCJHQW6DROMXZP5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"This is especially true of horse racing, which can feel so forbidding and unknowable when you come to it for the first time. Going any further than one flutter a year on the Grand National means you run face-first into jargon about a pull in the weights and listed maidens and getting done for toe and a million other pieces of assumed knowledge. It’s hard to get into a sport that makes you feel stupid.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L3OSN2Q6QJD4PMHAQBS47F432M","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"VHPIKDR665C2XAPQWMCCNS4O5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cheltenham is easy to understand. It can still make you feel stupid obviously but at least it offers you a way in. All sports fans have an immediate feel for winners and losers, favourites and underdogs, for big achievements that start in small places. Cheltenham has always been so good at telling stories about itself and even if plenty of it was mythmaking, it wasn’t hard to get on board.","type":"text"},{"_id":"USSPIKVWP5BRPHJLKKWAWUQ3XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fifteen years ago this very week, I went to Grangemockler in Tipperary to interview a jockey called Brian O’Connell. He had only turned professional a few months beforehand and was down to ride a horse called Dunguib in the Supreme. Having won the Champion Bumper in fine style the previous year, Dunguib wasn’t just odds-on for the festival opener, he was already favourite for the following year’s Champion Hurdle. An Irish banker in the first race of the week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J3HM457K2JATXCLZWLIKHR32DM","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-23138","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I3MKT7EAXFDHRDLWVWL2BUHATA","additional_properties":{},"content":"And in the middle of it was O’Connell, 23 years old and trying to find his feet. He had been an amateur rider when winning the bumper the previous year and now he was in the biggest spotlight of his life. “There’ll be a few sleepless nights between now and Tuesday and it will be nerve-wracking on the day but it won’t change the way I ride the horse,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VLE4RNMJ5BHZNE4XQ3VJXFC7MU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NGW27DB3LNHVJGORS45R5RQ5ZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dunguib went off at 4-5 but never got into the race and eventually finished third. O’Connell came in for plenty of criticism for the ride – Dunguib was never up with the pace and ended up with too much to do when they turned for home. Whether or not the occasion got to the young jockey, only he knows. But for the floating sports fan watching on, the whole thing was incredible theatre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZHTQNA7QMFHRVCCAX3XQSXL7UY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Though it was only in 2010, it feels like a story from another age. Willie Mullins had just two winners all week. JP McManus only had one. Nowadays, it’s highly likely that a Dunguib would have been either bought by the latter or housed in the former’s yard long before it made the Champion Bumper, never mind lining up for the Supreme. And a Brian O’Connell would have been back in Grangemockler while Paul Townend or Mark Walsh cantered down to the start.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K4APQBQNXJGBLGVCXVJ43RT4JE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cheltenham, like everything, has had its edges planed off as time has passed. The small yard stories don’t happen any more in the graded races and they’re pretty unheard of in the handicaps either. And so it’s harder for the floating sports fan to find the hook these days. Rachael Blackmore was it for a few years and if Galopin Des Champs completes the Gold Cup three in a row next Friday, maybe he will become a crossover star. But it feels unlikely.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NACKAAGBGRG7BJWM2IXKW2M2ZI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PA4K4KOI7BDHRFPWGOXS4FFGXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Instead, what ends up filling the gap is the betting, the betting, the betting. Gambling was always ingrained in the Cheltenham experience and it’s a huge part of the fun. But since there are so few stories to tell any more outside of the biggest beasts in the jungle, everything gets shot through the prism of what to back, what to lay, what’s drifting on the exchanges, what to put in the multis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGFKL77ESRHRHPCJDENSZOJ2BQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Something has been lost along the way. The communal experience of Cheltenham feels like it has fizzled out a touch. The preview nights that were once such a rattling good night out are now mostly online. People are going to Benidorm to watch the races by the pool rather than buy overpriced tickets to the festival. Even the betting shops, which used to be heaving, raucous sweatboxes during Cheltenham week, are half empty now since everyone bets on their phone. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"R4HDFAVV45CETE2XRP5K5GEBMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Plenty of us will still be glued to it. It’s still one of the really big f**kers on the sporting landscape and we lack the imagination to find something else to be at. But for plenty of reasons, Cheltenham doesn’t feel as vital as it used to. The thrill is gone.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BKRWOPVJ4FG5DLPCGWMS5PXWOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"At least for now.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Malachy Clerkin"}},"name":"Malachy Clerkin"}]},"description":{"basic":"Why would you care how many winners Willie Mullins or JP McManus add to their already huge total this week?"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Malachy Clerkin: Cheltenham’s thrill is gone as the best stories are replaced by the betting, the betting, the betting ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"FRQG7IHZMJC4NKFG7ABEVXEF5Q","auth":{"1":"73bb8e13ea4a0ba7a01b1026ae04a1ec5623b5a5252a5adb3ab047b550f08f5a"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/FRQG7IHZMJC4NKFG7ABEVXEF5Q.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/08/malachy-clerkin-cheltenhams-thrill-is-gone-as-the-best-stories-are-replaced-by-the-betting-the-betting-the-betting/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"K3A4WE3MTNEJ5MLLTQDU3C6YIY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":351,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/c18c1114-c6f6-44bf-901d-f453981c13d4/versions/1741375335/media/3fc6a3aedb8016a9e3f07a335dfa47a3_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/gaelic-games-previews-moving-weekend-across-the-divisions-in-hurling/","content_elements":[{"_id":"CJY4HHIABZHJ3GPJQFF4KI6DXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Saturday</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"W7O6IFQYENF53DRJSJLS3YSFPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Allianz Hurling League","type":"header"},{"_id":"EDGHQYOM4FCH7EN6X2TWVTXFVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 1A </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"WKHYLSJWWJDURJV23Z42M62LMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Limerick v Galway, TUS Gaelic Grounds, Limerick, 7.30pm (Live, TG4)</b> – Limerick’s first defeat, last week against neighbours Clare, will presumably buck them up for this. John Kiely has certainly made changes, restoring a clutch of star players – Kyle Hayes, Seán Finn, Tom Morrissey and Will O’Donoghue – to the starting 15. Amid the talk of Limerick’s new faces, the most consistently impressive has been Aidan O’Connor, who also starts. Galway have re-established an even keel after the opening-day calamity against Tipp but they were far from sparkling a week ago, as even by Wexford’s standards they left a lot behind – 14 wides to six. Galway persevered after a below-par display which is all a manager can ask for. <b>Verdict:</b> Limerick","type":"text"},{"_id":"7AN2LFLHX5GWHFEOZSFCZFJW5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 1B</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y3R5OF7A5ZGAPLYGOJRWQDNLBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Dublin v Carlow, Parnell Park, Dublin, 6pm –</b> Dublin have been making a habit out of getting beaten late in the day and with the defeats of the past two weeks coming against their main rivals for promotion, they don’t look likely Division 1A tenants next season. Unlike their hosts, Carlow are unbeaten in the league but should have bested Antrim last week to add to their impressive CV this season. This will be a test and Dublin can get back on board – even if it’s a bit late now. <b>Verdict: </b>Dublin","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEX6IRX2GFE5BD4UUWQWVG2DNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 2: </b>Derry v Meath, Celtic Park, 4pm; Kildare v Tyrone, Cedral St. Conleth’s, Newbridge 3pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2QSCC4KPHZFN7EG74X2WOEORCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 3: </b>Roscommon v Cavan, King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park 2pm; London v Sligo, McGovern Park, Ruislip 1pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L56ARDO6EJH4PBDJRY4MQDM6QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 4: </b>Monaghan v Lancashire, Inniskeen; Fermanagh v Leitrim, Brewster Park, Enniskillen; Louth v Longford, Páirc Naomh Bríd, Dowdallshill (all 2pm).","type":"text"},{"_id":"4STZAJYXKJF3NJMHIUAGSNAQCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Allianz Football League","type":"header"},{"_id":"N3UWLTKHJJAC3ONSO3EV7FMDEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division Four</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YD3JIOWNKZG4LNAJJMBBTTEBX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Wexford v Wicklow, Chadwicks Wexford Park, 6pm</b> <b>–</b> Wexford are on the cusp of promotion with two matches to go in the division. A win here will put them three ahead of Limerick and four ahead of Wicklow with the latter two counties to play each other next weekend. John Hegarty’s team have the tightest defence, with an average concession just over 0-11, but Wicklow also have good form as the highest average scorers but haven’t been quite as impressive as the home team. <b>Verdict: </b>Wexford","type":"text"},{"_id":"VMVBBU3QFJCAHOKSDOLE3IYEYQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GGJT25SRFJBLJCOCT2CLWUOIH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Sunday</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"UNGOY5JXVREDNMFYXS646WMQKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Allianz Hurling League","type":"header"},{"_id":"KQL23HGZ2NCQLFZJ26Q6JNNE24","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 1A </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJA5T4CONVDZTDLEGRPJUMNDBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Kilkenny v Tipperary, UPMC Nowlan Park, Kilkenny 1.15pm (Live, TG4)</b> <b>– </b>The previous decade’s most familiar of league opponents, the counties arrive in a slightly different place. Tipp with typical Liam Cahill early-season energy have blazed a trail to the top of the table while showcasing young talent and radiating a punky attitude as they go. Whether the diesel runs out by next month remains to be seen but they are buoyant. Kilkenny have been treading water, beating who they should beat and not anyone else. They were uncharacteristically wasteful in Cork. Derek Lyng has been trying to reassemble his best team from the recovery wards and they must be aware that the shadow of relegation is in the neighbourhood with just a game against Limerick left. This represents a good opportunity to burst Tipp’s bubble and float themselves up the table but have they got the wherewithal?<b> Verdict: </b>Tipperary","type":"text"},{"_id":"HF3BH2RDJRAOPHQS5B6FEISLRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Clare v Cork, Cusack Park, Zimmer Biomet Cusack Park, 3.15pm (Live, TG4) –</b> One of the liveliest rivalries over league and championship has swung Clare’s way in recent times, culminating in last summer’s All-Ireland win. For this they are in dire need of the points. Last week’s belated signs of life got them up and running but they need to keep winning to maintain their chances of staying in the top division. They survived an intense match by league standards in Limerick and looked in much better form. Youngsters Seán Rynne and Jack O’Neill acquitted themselves particularly well. Cork had to pedal fast to beat Kilkenny and have been struggling to find a convincing rhythm even though last week brought lustrous displays from rookie Diarmuid Healy, taking 1-5 on his debut, and All Star Rob Downey. They’ll be focused for this but maybe Clare have found their inner Houdini. <b>Verdict:</b> Clare","type":"text"},{"_id":"THQAUNTJXFDMHPVRL4DMR3IOAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 1B</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"JU2LUVUNN5B7PBO6O3RTXMNXDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Antrim v Laois, Ballycastle 1pm (Live, TG4 app, deferred) –</b> As the county’s footballers gear up for the latest “or nowhere” campaign, Antrim’s hurlers appeared to be dicing with plague during the week but David Fitzgerald dismissed claims that his team were looking for a postponement. They could do with the points to put distance between themselves and their opponents, who have matches in hand and for whom a win would mean survival in the division. <b>Verdict:</b> Antrim","type":"text"},{"_id":"HMU2NWXVARHDNFYCMVULOSXII4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Westmeath v Waterford, TEG Cusack Park, Mullingar 2pm</b> <b>–</b> Westmeath have been better than their position, chained to the bottom of the table, suggests but losing even narrowly on a constant basis isn’t good for morale. Leaders Waterford have shrugged off the poor start to get into something resembling their stride, clipping Dublin late last week. <b>Verdict:</b> Waterford","type":"text"},{"_id":"KH26ERIELZFOZHAIIUJMGQTRQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 2:</b> Kerry v Down, Austin Stack Park, Tralee 1pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VYGBTUVI55CZ3N74RWGQOMTAMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 3: </b>Armagh v Mayo, BOX-IT Athletic Grounds, Armagh 1pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IK3ZYNXGDZBEDGRSLM3QXPDYEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Allianz Football League","type":"header"},{"_id":"Y5GPOXJZMRGZXDHWVIGGWRAKPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division Three</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQGF7U7XXNAAZBM7VUAPAXHAIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Sligo v Clare, Markievicz Park, Sligo 1.30pm</b> – Clare catapulted themselves into the promotion frame by inflicting a first defeat on Kildare thanks to a great finish by Keelan Sexton. They still have to play the other two teams currently above them, Laois and Offaly, but that sharpens the opportunity. Sligo, who came into the season quietly fancied, have spluttered to defeats against the top three. They’ll do well to avoid another setback. <b>Verdict:</b> Clare","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Seán Moran"}},"name":"Seán Moran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Cusack Park in Ennis hosts rematch of last year's All-Ireland hurling final between Clare and Cork"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Gaelic games previews: Moving weekend across the divisions in hurling","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HWFYEAAIY5A73GOGSR4RLXQYSE","auth":{"1":"401513a38d471c15d1a321164128c3d6d97c4d93de135a6816545668599a7794"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HWFYEAAIY5A73GOGSR4RLXQYSE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/gaelic-games-previews-moving-weekend-across-the-divisions-in-hurling/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"3XNIHIJUHVFDRCYGB72DWVANZI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":452,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/18bcc12a-3a67-4be7-92bc-76da15a293bc/versions/1741380247/media/b25487350035fa14da7f060d9ba04585_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-at-their-collective-best-can-overcome-french-force-and-flair/","content_elements":[{"_id":"7PMYWENYHRF2PPJHV56UL6WZW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six Nations: Ireland v France, Saturday, Aviva Stadium, 2.15pm – Live on RTÉ and ITV","type":"header"},{"_id":"DORHLUDEWVDEHBQ3YSFEJF74OM","additional_properties":{},"content":"For the fourth year running, this is it, the same two countries going head-to-head in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\">Six Nations</a> title decider in all but name, and thus the match of the championship and perhaps the season as well. That’s all then. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MW4IWTTRRNECVFAQVQD3MBAG34","additional_properties":{},"content":"It may not be a Grand Slam shoot-out but most likely <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby\">Ireland</a> will need to complete a second Slam in three years to ensure a historic three-peat. That’s because <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\">France</a>’s routs of Wales and Italy has made their points difference vastly superior, so if Les Bleus win this game Ireland would need to pick up two bonus points and deny France a bonus point to remain ahead of their rivals going into the last weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O6SRC7A555BWDP4UFCVDYI2SFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Otherwise, any kind of French win here and they will lead the table entering next weekend’s final round, in which Ireland kick-off first in front of the travelling St Patrick’s weekend Green Army in Rome and France host Scotland in Super Saturday’s finale. England, at home to Italy on Sunday and away to Wales on the final day, are rated 14-1 outsiders of the three title contenders. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SR2C2GYHFGRPK4QJM6UXWVBUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland come into this game off the back of a third successive win in Cardiff, albeit they had to recover from an 18-10 deficit with 17 unanswered points. By contrast, France exorcised a few demons from their wasteful and somewhat self-inflicted defeat in Twickenham by sharpening their blades against an increasingly supine Italy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YI5PTUFKHRASHANFKOFBYQFKEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Each has been strengthened by the return of some key men, although Ireland are missing the suspended Garry Ringrose, while this game has come too soon for Tadhg Furlong and Rónan Kelleher. Fabien Galthié has reinstated Damien Penaud, one try shy of Serge Blanco’s French record of 38, and Romain Ntamack at outhalf to partner Antoine Dupont.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34ODIGZQVFHSXCWA5XLSUB6A7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"He has also beefed up his 7-1 bench with the heft of Emmanuel Meafou and Hugo Auradou,which looks to have been designed specifically with their hosts in mind, intent to beat up Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"B5EL3OYZQZGWDAB4IIPETC4V7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Even so, Ireland’s 6-2 bench looks well equipped to meet fire with fire, and furthermore France’s 7-1 split comes with plenty of risk. For one, injury in their backline automatically will ensure Maxime Lucu is introduced and Dupont has to move to outhalf. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"42T5XSKSMBAXDKQAFDSFK2LCBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"That has to be a result for any opposing team, as no matter how adaptable he is at outhalf, Dupont is the best player in the world at scrumhalf. His duel with Jamison Gibson-Park, equally influential as Ireland’s pivot, will go a long way towards determining the outcome. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YOPI2ANFOJNFKYHWOJY7XVZZVQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"YWAORYNXXRCXZL3ABZZVO3G27I","additional_properties":{},"content":"A host of other familiar rivalries abound, be it Dan Sheehan v Peato Mauvaka, Andrew Porter v Uini Atoni, Caelan Doris v Gregory Alldritt, and each of the back three, not least James Lowe v Penaud. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASS5WKZOCNGADPQRRNEYDWMF5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Galthié has already publicly aired his views on Ireland’s work on opposition rucks at the breakdown and it will be interesting to see how referee Angus Gardner and his officials oversee the scrums, although the Irish frontrow will bring more around the pitch.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BQIH7JK2IBFOROX563QDARJBIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"France will certainly bring plenty of ball-carrying oomph to work off Dupont’s pull-stringing, although, for starters, the Joe McCarthy and Tadgh Beirne secondrow pairing ought not be overpowered by Thibaud Flament and Mickaël Guillard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPDB2L6YCRGA3FWERT44PRJWYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"For sure, too, Les Bleus bring plenty of pace and finishing among their back three, although then again they are not all brilliant defenders, while outside centre Pierre-Louis Barassi was exposed by both Elliot Daly’s match-winning try in Twickenham and Tommaso Menoncello’s opener in Rome. Ireland are also equally as threatening in the air, both teams capable of bringing plenty of long-range and nuanced kicking in what will be a fascinating tactical battle. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"I54BZI7SUZCRXBCKQFW2GETQ7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"A 2.15pm kick-off is not normally the most raucous slot, but if ever the Aviva will be all a fever then the sheer seismic magnitude of this encounter should ensure an atmosphere befitting the occasion. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3NRDEDLAUZHMLGHIW5DS2E3MRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-easterby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-easterby/\">Simon Easterby</a> cites the opening game against England as encouragement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X4SF2LLE5BH5FM55FCLU5U2MZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It was a cracking atmosphere. It gives the players an extra edge. it gives them another metre. I think it does, it creates something that allows, they feel like they want to go and they’re striving to do something special.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BMJ63KXWXJHTJIDRBLWPBKBF6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m not saying that at times when the game swings a bit, when momentum swings, I think those are the moments where I feel in the England game, actually, that we felt like that atmosphere was still there and I’ve no doubt that will be the case on Saturday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCGDBQ5C4AWAAZOP6AMCKE2SVA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WJGYNCSVUZCFBBKQYE7OUCPOMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think the Irish public will know the magnitude of what’s at stake and those that are lucky enough to come to the stadium will I’m sure as well, and that will create an atmosphere, but we’ve also got to make sure that they’ve got something to get their teeth into as well.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2BS3YPOVMZHZZFKK6XXIBDJTGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The weather forecast is for a relatively mild day but even if it doesn’t quite scale the epic heights of the corresponding clash two years ago, and even if it is a taut and tight affair, in modern times these two simply don’t do dull.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q45X67ZHE5FOBL5RK4EL4IPNDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"That French performance in Twickenham never looked like a good outcome for Ireland given France were never going to be that wasteful again. Italy may have felt the brunt of the riposte but France looked primed for a big performance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FWW3U324ORDC7BSAANGBVEAAH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"So, to beat them, Ireland will need to produce something close to their collective best, but as the game has neared so has the feeling hardened that they will. As well as winning two of the last three title deciders, in those three clashes Ireland have outscored France by 12 tries to five.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7KBJPRYVNGHBDYG4YHMAYSZAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"As with the Leinster collisions against La Rochelle and Toulouse in recent times, Ireland’s more precise and nuanced game has enabled them to go toe to toe with the French and compete strongly. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UHPJV4NOQZFHJISBDRJMIQ5ABM","additional_properties":{},"content":"What’s more, home advantage might come into play in a close game. French teams have had their troubles on their travels, while Ireland have won 23 of their last 24 games at the Aviva. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IXNC3TYXHRCUJMHDAIH7E6K2R4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND: </b>Hugo Keenan; Jamie Osborne, Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki, James Lowe; Sam Prendergast, Jamison Gibson-Park; Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Finlay Bealham; Joe McCarthy, Tadhg Beirne; Peter O’Mahony, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris (capt).","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZQJVQG3QNCVFJ6CLIXGM2HOKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> Rob Herring, Cian Healy, Thomas Clarkson, James Ryan, Jack Conan, Ryan Baird, Conor Murray, Jack Crowley.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NHJY4YB3U5DLHKOTYIAHTXZULE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>FRANCE: </b>Thomas<b> </b>Ramos; Damien Penaud, Pierre-Louis Barassi, Yoram Moefana, Louis Bielle-Biarrey; Romain Ntamack, Antoine Dupont (capt); Jean-Baptiste Gros, Peato Mauvaka, Uini Atonio; Thibaud Flament, Mickaël Guillard; François Cros, Paul Boudehent, Grégory Alldritt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RT6R25P4QZC67LGBBF2ZESBXNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements: </b>Julien Marchand, Cyril Baille, Dorian Aldegheri, Emmanuel Meafou, Hugo Auradou, Oscar Jegou, Anthony Jelonch, Maxime Lucu.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UGMPLSZZK5A3HPL2XSMHL4XWF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> Angus Gardner (Australia).","type":"text"},{"_id":"MURRFMAWTJEV7KETXSP2ICMBZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Assistant referees: </b>Matthew Carley (England), Christophe Ridley (England).","type":"text"},{"_id":"A55QFM7D2RHEHB67JUN7RQVZPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>TMO: </b>Ian Tempest (England).","type":"text"},{"_id":"B7YBAFQSIVF3DG3BHIHJBEOAII","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Overall head-to-head: </b>Played 103, France 59 wins, Ireland 37 wins, 7 draws.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CKENWPXGBESHCOLGBCQ4RRRCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>In Ireland: </b>Played 50, Ireland 23 wins, France 22 wins, 5 draws.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R2ECRS64KFGEZJZCAPTPM4KJHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>In France: </b>Played 50, France 35 wins, Ireland 13 wins, 2 draws.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SA6CVWN24BGXXL3MEXUJTXRLJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Neutral venues (all RWC):</b> France 2 wins, Ireland 1 win.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M73HLMMMZVDU7I6B7LEFBFOKLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting:</b> 5-6 Ireland, 19-1 Draw, 11-10 France. <b>Handicap odds (France +1 pt)</b> Evs Ireland, 16-1 Draw, Evs France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZU6JM6RTWJGIHFDSFZNRXIACGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Forecast:</b> Ireland. Maybe. Just. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MY4BGVCB6VCRFMTZUV7HUTGWPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gerry Thornley"}},"name":"Gerry Thornley"}]},"description":{"basic":"With so much on the line, proceedings at the Aviva are sure to be far from dull"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland at their collective best can overcome French force and flair","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"D5Y4TIJZYU7AQAFVFTNTSJS3BY","auth":{"1":"cdbfb3e78b4b6da16632490844d366d1b00672cc9bf6b1b989745b1c73a646a1"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/D5Y4TIJZYU7AQAFVFTNTSJS3BY.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-at-their-collective-best-can-overcome-french-force-and-flair/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"RVO6C7B37VEX3KBVT5WKVLVO4M","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":459,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/ff4ea51b-99e9-4814-8ab3-3e29722b4c98/versions/1741278893/media/72f769632cd54b6ba019c978c2ad8131_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/08/will-willie-mullins-with-nothing-left-to-prove-bow-out-after-cheltenham-dont-bet-on-it/","content_elements":[{"_id":"R4U55MKXG5GJFFNAUXDU6HABIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s a question only a tiny sporting elite ever face – what to do next after you’ve won it all. Alexander famously blubbed when he had no more worlds to conquer. Emotional incontinence isn’t <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\">Willie Mullins</a>’s style, though, and he shows no sign of loosening his grip on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival/\">Cheltenham Festival</a> anytime soon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBTOWWYIFZAN5DBBH7E6CSI75E","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is 30 years since the man who has changed the face of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/national-hunt/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/national-hunt/\">National Hunt</a> <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/\">racing</a> saddled his first winner at the biggest meeting of the year. Tourist Attraction landed the 1995 Supreme Novices Hurdle at 25/1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YAJKONMEXJDOPKE5YJGPA6WAKE","subtype":"youtube","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"NVCZG3XMWVFD3CQ5GKT5CIF3RU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Her 38-year-old trainer had taken out a license six years before and still juggled training with riding. In 1996 he rode his third Cheltenham winner as a jockey on Wither Or Which. He was a good rider, champion amateur in Ireland six times. But what followed has proved transformational.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XDX7VRNWKFCIPBLPTUP4MR2Z5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The year before Tourist Attraction, the story of Danoli and Tom Foley captivated racing. A year after it, Imperial Call and his idiosyncratic ex-soldier trainer Fergie Sutherland did the same. Such plucky underdog stories are all but impossible to imagine at Cheltenham any more. The Mullins revolution has dragged the old game into the modern age. Success has bred levels of success that once would have been unthinkable.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ST74IF3WIBBDFMCUOLHCLVMQAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last year Mullins crashed through the “century” mark of Cheltenham Festival winners. He’s on 103 ahead of next week’s action. In 2022 he had 10 winners in a single week. There isn’t a race of note he hasn’t won at least once. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/2025/02/01/galopin-des-champs-has-pride-of-place-in-massive-willie-mullins-squad-as-he-pursues-irish-gold-cup-hat-trick/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/2025/02/01/galopin-des-champs-has-pride-of-place-in-massive-willie-mullins-squad-as-he-pursues-irish-gold-cup-hat-trick/\">Galopin Des Champs</a>, the horse labelled his crowning glory, can join Arkle as a triple-Gold Cup winner this Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W44HGAS5ENET3K366KBRUVHEZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s 100 and counting as Willie Mullins continues stunning Cheltenham run","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"BBBHWKAIH5B4VG457IW4O77VTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Statistically, perhaps the broader impact of that revolution is underlined by him being champion trainer in both Ireland and Britain right now. More than 4,500 winners in Ireland alone is an all-time record here. Echoing broader trends, a concentration of ownership resources into a handful of training yards means that Mullins has become the most super of superpowers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ATJ6HB5IVJFZXG5D4TAM3J3UOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"To do all this and not generate significant personal animosity in a backbiting business is a dexterous double. Always “William” to his late mother, he is invariably Willie to everyone else. He is an approachable sporting titan. Just as deft a double is how rare it is to get a peek behind the personable exterior and glimpse the driving professional ambition lurking underneath.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J53DR7YEEFDWDN4R7VXIS7HADE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WMBCVLTYMBDZDMLILBSJITPBYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Results are the greatest evidence of those understated competitive instincts, and they show no sign of waning. Mullins will be 69 in September. He had big heart surgery in 2019. His son Patrick, the most successful amateur rider of all time, is 35 and an obvious heir apparent. Then again, you’re a long time retired. His English rival Nicky Henderson is 74 and still up for the fight.","type":"text"},{"_id":"62QH4MJKKFH7JD2GP6KRRFVJGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There are three questions always being asked. Will he ever stop? Will he do a joint license with Patrick? Or will he just keep going?” says a friend who has known Mullins for over 50 years. “I would be inclined to say he’ll keep going. His father did.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"HRIXNGHBERGP7IO5FKWGCYCYVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Paddy Mullins, the patriarch of one of racing’s most accomplished families, officially retired 20 years ago at the age of 86. Declining health at the end meant his youngest son Tom did much of the heavy lifting. They even enjoyed classic success on the flat during that time. The old man’s eldest son has also won a Curragh classic, but stamina is the family foundation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RWKBBNF56BAFFFNVE2O64OVZ3A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TUF7AEEQGJBAVGYOC5GJUMVWOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"There’s also the reality that the cornerstone of the most successful operation in racing history is ultimately rooted in one man’s eye for a horse. A team of talent scouts and buyers focus on every point-to-point in Ireland and juvenile hurdle in France. All of it, though, ultimately depends on a thumbs up or down from the boss.","type":"text"},{"_id":"36QNSUBI75EOBD5RIHWGS5H2M4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He’s always training off his eye,” Patrick Mullins has said of his father who can have up to 250 horses in his Co Carlow yard at any one time. “He doesn’t have lists. He’s on the gallop every morning looking at the horses. That’s always been impressed upon me, that you have to be looking at them every day to see how they’re handling the training.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JG7RJNPEORD4XKGHZ3JRYJJBEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Having built up an unparalleled system, the idea of retirement any time soon is surely a big-odds outsider. That’s almost as unappealing a prospect for the opposition as facing into the task of trying to beat 70-odd Mullins runners next week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LS3RRVAYRZFVJG2LH57XX4PTYA","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"OW2NQ4VWD5D4PC2P4NUDKJD7ZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Recently retired trainer Michael Hourigan says the sport is almost unrecognisable from 30 years ago when he was ruling the roost with stars such as Dorans Pride and Beef Or Salmon. Much of that is due to the man he knew as a kid when riding a winner for Paddy Mullins 60 years ago. He can’t see why the relentless drive for success should start to slip in his former colleague’s case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LB54XOGVRZBZXOROETD4FPZO6E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"KS46VPCKN5GBZFECQQODGE6OY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It would be hard to stop when he’s so successful. It’s all running as a well-timed machine,” says Hourigan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IDM5QBUZYBFU3PMXKL223FYVKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He has great staff, honourable staff, fellahs that would die for him. That’s a great sign of a fellah. He’s very honourable himself. Paul Townend stood in the shadows for years and eventually fell into Ruby’s boots. David Casey is still there too. He doesn’t step outside his own yard looking for jockeys. If you’ve a fellah in the yard, you can have words with him tomorrow but not on the racecourse. It will reward you the next day,” he adds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UYIBDWSRLNGUXNS7WLI6GS3VTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mullins delivers Dublin Racing Festival one-two as shadow boxing with Horse Racing Ireland continues","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"4OYPQ6XZKRFDRIIUVF2J3BIL6E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Reports of Mullins losing his cool are rare, although apparently it can be an impressive sight. Much more recognisable are cool diplomatic skills that have allowed him build up a list of hugely rich owners with the financial clout to buy the raw material on which everything relies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SJHJJ6AHNG4NMKDF4BU3WDH7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You couldn’t have a row with him. But you can get a sort of indifference. At the end of it all, though, he’d shrug the shoulders or hold the hands out like the police ‘OK, that’s your way – this is my way.’ And it’s forgotten. He never holds grudges,” explains his friend, the former Turf Club stipendiary steward, Michael O’Donoghue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AAGDZQELNH7RMC4I6GRSISGIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"That capacity famously paid off when Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary removed 60 horses in a dispute over an increase in training fees. Mullins wished O’Leary well, filled the boxes with other eager owners and squashed talk of a decline by accelerating his success rate even more. In 2022, O’Leary sheepishly returned to the fold. Mullins contented himself by just saying – “We had a difference of opinion.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"J6S5BMHK55G5VKTPUCPCJCFWRE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"CT7PPUKJ2FB5VNWKJMIHHO6BEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fighting your corner with Mullins on racing is a long shot at the best of times, but it’s also notable the ease with which he switches from professional to personal. Switching off includes a night out with friends at his local hostelry in Leighlinbridge. The old wooden jockeys board with his name on it, that used to be displayed at race meetings, hangs over his favourite table.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SW3NTKRWZDJ7D4QXF4OKYWP6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He doesn’t talk much about horses when he goes out. There would be no big interrogation about what you’re running tomorrow, or last winner he had. A night out with him is not a racing night. He can talk about anything – the economy, politics, travel, different countries. He has a wide knowledge and he’s very good on other sports, particularly rugby. He’s also very good on history. He loves history,” O’Donoghue says.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WHMZSBQHE5HC7EZ2HXE7FULCBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since Mullins is rewriting racing’s record books with every passing year, an appreciation for the historical context involved might spur him on even more.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"Champion trainer has transformed the face of National Hunt racing and begins Cheltenham next week on 103 festival victories "},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Will Willie Mullins, with nothing left to prove, bow out after Cheltenham? Don’t bet on it","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KF2HABDKUNDV5BVFYYGRWGKXHM","auth":{"1":"11cb29f3b6e087018ca71956e9b7c0f629c8b9ac7f8dbf4f60327d17bcb81d4c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KF2HABDKUNDV5BVFYYGRWGKXHM.jpg"}},"subtype":"feature","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/08/will-willie-mullins-with-nothing-left-to-prove-bow-out-after-cheltenham-dont-bet-on-it/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"MTAOXLOSH5BNFJ2JPN6H7HRCEU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":324,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/9a009df5-e88b-4556-a044-382d1344d94e/versions/1741257303/media/374655358d38709d867caf0d213c65b1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/08/my-betting-policy-these-days-is-to-slavishly-follow-willie-mullins-ivan-yates/","content_elements":[{"_id":"T6RZ6H4OUFAJJL6TXJNPVYHPTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Jimmy Barry Murphy (Cork All Ireland winner)</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"KXFSD6ZB7JASROAXIF3EZBXXCQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BF4ES2QBSRFHXA2ULCMPG73P3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>1. Bet of the Meeting –</b> “Dinoblue in the Mares Chase. I think she’ll stay the 2½-mile trip fine. I was impressed with her at Naas, the way she came up the inside there which isn’t easy.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"IO3ZS4L7ONAV5CYS5PHT5ZH3ME","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>2. Lay of the Meeting –</b> “I’m not convinced about Constitution Hill and I love that Brighterdaysahead is taking him on. If Lossiemouth goes as well, it will be a wonderful race.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"KHGYLJ66K5ESLBF534UIZOQANE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>3. Number of Irish Winners – </b>“I’d say 16 of the 28. There are some really good English horses there this time.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RMW4KXYLQVFRBD674NZ2ZHFIJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>4. Number of </b><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\"><b>Willie Mullins</b></a><b> Winners – </b>“He has great chances in the Novice Hurdles, in the Gold Cup too, Majborough looks a certainty; I’d say seven.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"5XDPLCA4AFGHHHCWTXF7VWCAAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>5. Gold Cup Winner –</b> “You couldn’t look beyond Galopin Des Champs.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZXDQE4ARXZHQ5FIDJWGFJSK5TM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>6. Champion Hurdle Winner – </b>“I love that Jack Kennedy is back to ride Brighterdaysahead. It would be great to see him win after all the injuries he’s had. And I think she must have a great chance.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"55SZ56JESFAO5OS62H7SA5N52M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Ivan Yates (Broadcaster)</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"ZIEIF5FUIJPBZBUGZMJDSHEVBQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"SQSTACCFCFFYPJIAVKNFVYBBEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting - </b>My betting policy these days is to slavishly follow Willie Mullins. It works more than it doesn’t, particularly on the big days. So Majborough and Ballyburn for me. And I’m keener on Ballyburn.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5W4C62UNSRH4LJLY6C5ZCQWMZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting –</b> Il Est Francais in the Ryanair. He has burst blood vessels before, and I don’t like him. An Irish horse will beat The New Lion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LNQELIQM5JBUDBNP2GKGKBD3LY","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners –</b> I’m going for 19 Irish winners.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NO4732FINES7CURBEFT4PKUGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of </b><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\"><b>Willie Mullins</b></a><b> Winners – </b>I’m oscillating between seven or eight for Willie. But a minimum of seven.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKQEGD7POFCA5C3D5IB3ENTN3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner –</b> Can’t see beyond Galopin Des Champs. It’s his to lose. Ground’s not a problem and Paul Townend can lead or hold him up.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X6CSGBAUA5CPJGSQSN36WXXYQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champions Hurdle Winner -</b> Brighterdaysahead at Christmas was deceptive. The fact State Man couldn’t beat Winter Fog for second says to me he was at least a stone below his best. She’s almost a lay for me. Constitution Hill to prove himself one of the greats.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VLE3WYMOOREYHGFA4BVAWRBLWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Paddy Power (Bookmaker)</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"2QE6UULLVZEHBGSJS4NKV6FYZY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"XFHYZ3VKARHGTEZ45YSTJFIYGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting - </b>Copacabana in the Bumper. I loved the attitude he showed winning at Navan. He should devour the hill.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ARGSB45PENBOXNH23YKQQPP4NU","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting -</b> Jade De Grugy in the Mares. She disappointed at Cheltenham last year and there are a few good mares in this.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZMATMO6RBNBM7PLX5OLMZIHWJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners -</b> We’ve had 18 the last three years but the tide may be beginning to turn, and Nicky Henderson’s horses weren’t right last year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EZG77DGBV5ADVENYO5OGJGP6YE","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of Willie Mullins Winners -</b> By my reckoning there will be slightly less Irish winners to go around, and he can’t train them all, can he?","type":"text"},{"_id":"HAD5R5JBIJEY7EUEOTLUKZ4A2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner</b> - Something needs to go wrong for Galopin Des Champs not to make it three on the trot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PT3LBTWFCBBHDGRTHVSF5B3F5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champions Hurdle Winner -</b> Brighterdaysahead. I’m hoping her Leopardstown romp was no fluke. It’s a cracker of a race. I’d love to see all the big guns in contention turning for home.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNMURT632JCVRC2DBOOHIBGCOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/martin-heydon/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/martin-heydon/\"><mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Martin Heydon</mark></a><mark class=\"hl_yellow\"> (Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine)</mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AIBYW6V54CFCLMAR3Z6S6W5S2A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"QL44HSFMZ5AFZF5SL75UOPF44E","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting -</b> Kopek Des Bordes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DVN4J4OBSRHBNDCVLJOZTOO4A4","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting -</b> Nothing in particular.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJN7BT3JEBCBBHVUR54QJ4HJXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners -</b> 14 Irish winners this time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTW55REJKVEHVNYWBVXPDNKTA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of Willie Mullins Winners -</b> Eight for Willie.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KW63KXGFFZC63CD45GDISF6O3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner -</b> Galopin Des Champs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFLOJSDGZRH73AZ6CZ6EBXQRHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champions Hurdle Winner -</b> Can’t get away from Constitution Hill.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WJ4HQEWDSZGSDFIDBALU3E3GCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Darragh Ó Sé (Kerry All-Ireland winner)</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"RFIYGZFJGBBRHMSE4LOP4DFXZQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"2JKH74YFG5A4FGOCKF3ZVQLA7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting -</b> Sixandahalf in the Mares Novice. She was high class on the flat and jumped brilliantly on her jumps start.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBQY45EJ5RALTOR4HLEG2J73GI","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting -</b> Constitution Hill beat an under-performing Lossiemouth at Kempton. He’ll have to better than ever to win and I have my doubts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5BCH5MA66ZFOHEHBNUWSGEDKJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners -</b> 19ish. We’re blessed with the trainers we have here.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEGQNBBUIFHWRBLC6O73KMZX6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of Willie Mullins Winners -</b> Willie has an army so 10 or so.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQMWSFAV2JB5NHRKYN6XUTXQ6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner -</b> Galopin has it at his mercy. He’s no bet but it’s a race to watch and enjoy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVQBDWKKRBH2PE6P6LJ6TDNUJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champions Hurdle Winner -</b> If Brighterdaysahead produces her Leopardstown run at Christmas, she’ll win, and the parade ring will be buzzing!","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOYAPWMZVVGZFPCNMME7ICW7TE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Nicky English (Tipperary All Ireland Winner)</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"WH5EDGR7PZGV3CCNNAJQY7A7UY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"AXM4ZKLE4BGDZMQX2LDOX7Z5L4","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting -</b> Kopek Des Bordes in the Supreme. He was ultra-impressive at Leopardstown.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P6GFPPHBPFEMNN2I3LBBWPBOQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting -</b> East India Dock looks short enough in the Triumph considering the Irish horses and Nicky Henderson’s good juveniles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OLQD4WXXBBBFLIYWLJFYMPRSPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners -</b> Around the 14 mark. The change in status of some of the races, more handicaps, might suit the English horses more.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NLWNDUA46BE65LLLXJ3LL537XA","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of Willie Mullins Winners -</b> Willie will have the bulk of the Irish winners, say eight.","type":"text"},{"_id":"74SOACEKAVGK3DZZ7GAQLOC7WU","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner -</b> Galopin Des Champs is an outstanding horse and he deserves to win a third Gold Cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UIX3KCBRRBHELMUCFBG3TRQF3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champion Hurdle Winner -</b> I think Constitution Hill will be back to his best.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FVH7DCFKEBDSBE4I2MWU2FMYT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"We asked a range of well-known racing observers for their Cheltenham Festival tips, and several foresee English horses challenging Irish dominance particularly hard this year "},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘My betting policy these days is to slavishly follow Willie Mullins’ - Ivan Yates","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"A3ZZDSNNC7CYHFGOUW6AO5X2UA","auth":{"1":"a6f25d252b1d6188292e025a5165ead25861d84e6e37ebfd6ac09bfa97330696"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/A3ZZDSNNC7CYHFGOUW6AO5X2UA.jpg"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/08/my-betting-policy-these-days-is-to-slavishly-follow-willie-mullins-ivan-yates/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"QBF6TVHW7ZBNNL6II4IR3I7DVQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":571,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/31679e3a-c7dc-4265-91ac-f4e8a3972f06/versions/1741298868/media/ec3e1646500268301bd429234623f38d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/young-guns-like-darragh-mccarthy-give-tipperary-the-start-they-need/","content_elements":[{"_id":"X7CO6FOAXJHRHA3GJWDDBKV62E","additional_properties":{},"content":"With 53 minutes on the clock against Cork a fortnight ago, it was open to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/search/?query=Liam%20Cahill%20\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/search/?query=Liam%20Cahill%20\">Liam Cahill</a> to choose any adventure he fancied. His <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/search/?query=Tipperary%20GAA\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/search/?query=Tipperary%20GAA\">Tipperary</a> team stood level at 1-17 apiece but had conceded four points on the bounce. They were exactly at the point where they were the rubber and Cork were the road. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JZ556SCD3JDZZIE22TKAQH5CK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Stop the clock. What would you do?","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZHNBH3EAXNBSLMMP34RQ2O2NF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Consider that your players had taken an 18-point beating from Cork the previous time they’d played. Consider too that the league campaign so far had generally been middling-to-good and that not scaring the horses was an entirely acceptable option. The future has been a long time arriving in Tipp. Another 17 minutes wouldn’t have outraged anyone.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ZF4V4WIIRCT5IO7WCCDOHIKO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cahill, however, has an instinct for exploration. He made two substitutions in the space of a minute. Off came Willie Connors and Bryan O’Mara, replaced by Oisín O’Donoghue and Michael Corcoran. Connors is in his eighth season as a Tipp senior, O’Mara is in his sixth. By contrast, both Corcoran and O’Donoghue made their senior debuts in this campaign.","type":"text"},{"_id":"57UCJAEPV5BDTDRB24VIYFLL4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"This wasn’t giving a couple of fresh faces a run out at the end of a nothing game. The fat was in the fire and Cahill’s message was unambiguous – let the young chefs cook. Nobody would have held caution against him. It was much more likely, in fact, that he’d have taken heat if it all went rancid.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYQ3HM3OBFBWLGC4AUFQGWN2FI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Instead, here’s what happened. Tipperary outscored Cork the rest of the way by 1-5 to 0-4, a nifty 1-2 of which came from Dylan Walsh, Darragh McCarthy and O’Donoghue. Walsh and O’Donoghue were both making their second senior appearances for Tipp off the bench. McCarthy is the league’s top scorer but this was still only his fourth game out of underage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HAEUOXLV4VEEJN4VJQWUOEHAGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“To be fair,” says Shane McGrath, “we knew about Darragh McCarthy, we knew about Robert Doyle, we knew about Ois<i>í</i>n O’Donoghue and Sam O’Farrell and these guys. But we didn’t think we’d see the level of performance we’re getting from them now for another couple of years almost. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HLJ4XW76MBEA5O62NXZUH4XAVY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"AGTYVEPMCFDZTIMLIREV6ZR2B4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“People who would know the hurling landscape, who would know what’s going on in the schools and colleges and clubs, they would have known all these names. But the big thing so far is seeing how well these lads have adapted. It’s very early but you’d have to be encouraged by what you’ve seen so far.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"34ZRBWC7DFE35CK2AZYI7KAHUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Top of Division 1A. Highest scorers in the top flight. Best points difference. Any county would take headline stats like those after four games of the league. But it’s the underlying numbers that tell the tale of what Cahill is looking for out of the spring campaign. And maybe even hint at what he’s getting.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GNVKAWC5KRDXTJO4KW5LMULUVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"So far, 10 new players have made their senior debut for Tipp in the 2025 league. Corcoran, McCarthy, O’Farrell and Walsh all started against Galway, with Doyle and Conor Martin coming in off the bench. Gavin O’Halloran and Josh Keller started against Wexford, with O’Donoghue a half-time sub. Joe Caesar played the full 70 minutes against Cork. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNAXHFZUXNC7LML4AMYWR5NHXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"They won’t all last the road and some may not even see the summer. But they’ve come in and survived and Tipp are top of the league. A sound few months’ work in anyone’s language.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WW4RXFFP6FDVLAOESRDJDDIKN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think they were helped massively by the Galway game,” McGrath says of their league opener in Salthill. “However good, bad or indifferent Galway were that first day out, it told some of these lads that they were able to mix it. If your first day out isn’t a good day, you can go into your shell and it can take you a whole campaign to come out of it again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SKQLNR2ZDZHIPDTDKWEDXEGPTA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"SHUHHK5JTRGEJDLMEUIJPPF2BQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You need to be able to find that confidence to say, ‘You know what? I am good enough to do this. I can live with this level.’ I know myself, it does take a year or two to get to that stage where you feel comfortable and you don’t have this impostor syndrome. Once you’re able to come in and do it against good teams, it’s a massive thing.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PZQ2UAACLVCHDPCUV3SBD5PLGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"If there’s a reason to imagine this might be different from other years, the wholesale league restructure might well be it. Everyone accepts that the league is still the league and none of this amounts to a hill of beans until they do it in the championship. But even so, this league has jeopardy for the first time in years and Cahill isn’t sending his young colts out and having to wonder if they’re facing a bunch of non-triers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QIYJNCNJ6BBYTL252ULIY5CRDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Contrast it to last year’s league in which Tipperary blooded eight rookies over the course of six games. Three of them came against Westmeath, another two against Antrim. By the time the Munster Championship opener against Limerick arrived in late April, only Seán Hayes made the starting 15. He has since been cut from the panel. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4ITPFORSJANZDMLSU3BC76TCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A lot of them are still in and around the place, all the same. Seánie Kenneally, Andy Ormond and Darragh Stakelum are both fighting for game-time in the full-forward line now that McCarthy and Walsh are on the scene. Danny Slattery and Billy Seymour are still on the panel but haven’t got a spin yet this year. Every minute is being earned.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CM6U3OKQWNDTBJMCM5L3DARVSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Little green shoots again as we go through this league,” said Cahill after the Cork game. “We are very conscious it is springtime. Summertime is when you are really going to be judged but springtime is important for this group of players, that we get our house in order and give ourselves a fighting chance in the summer.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KBYT5TKDBJHYDEV5NBJHIY6VLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We just have a real good feeling about what we are doing. From myself, right through the squad, we are really enjoying our hurling at the moment. It is brilliant to be in that kind of a space, that you are enjoying your hurling and you are working so hard on other aspects as well to all feed into the success of trying to get back and compete with the bigger teams again in the championship come April.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LGKSOEAUFGKTM5DQL7Y6KGR4I","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"2PVCLDA4J5HRDLQMXBOGAPM4YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In some respects, the wheel was bound to turn eventually given the amount of underage success in Tipperary over the past decade or so. Walsh was on the All-Ireland winning minor team that Cahill himself managed back in 2016. Corcoran and O’Farrell were both Tipp minor captains – Corcoran of the 2020 team that lost a Munster final to Adam English’s Limerick crop, O’Farrell of the 2022 team that won the All-Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LTZPUX3OZFOFINGUEAMNRXLEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"More recently, McCarthy, O’Donoghue and Martin were all on the team that just came up short against Offaly in last year’s All-Ireland under-20 final. All three are eligible at that grade again this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IMA2AL75GJCDDIZQBGANB7B62Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Go deeper again and Tipperary schools are going through a golden spell in the Harty Cup. When Thurles CBS beat St Flannan’s in this year’s final, it meant that Tipp schools had won Munster most famous schools' hurling trophy for the third successive year. Not alone that, but they’d won it with three different schools – Nenagh (led by Darragh McCarthy) won in 2024 and Cashel (with Oisín O’Donoghue to the fore) had done it in 2023. In the 105-year history of the Harty Cup, this is only the second time a county has done a three-in-a-row with three different schools.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V4CK6JG55BCLBHZ4T2SPAEMTVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And the thing with that was that the year Cashel won it, they beat Thurles in the final,” says McGrath. “So there’s definitely good stuff coming through. You’d still like to see some of them come through and beat St Kieran’s some year. That’s always the big hurdle. But the main thing is you have a load of guys coming through underage ranks who are used to winning.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W4CCEFI2Z5BFZLJYO4ZSHDRGXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They’re not afraid of Cork teams or Limerick teams. They’re well used to beating them. Tipp have a very good under-20 team this year that should have a great chance of getting out of Munster. These are all good, solid building blocks when it comes to getting players ready for senior hurling.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OFZGVX5CQZGSNORP4AB4EUJ5XY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WN7UHVWZRJHWZFUTXGO2YFNEWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Small straws in the wind. Last September, the Clubber TV streaming service showed the Waterford county final between Ballygunner and Abbeyside as its main weekend pick on the platform. When they crunched the numbers on Monday morning, the second most streamed game of the weekend was Toomevara v Borrisoleigh in the North Tipp under-19 A final. The reason? Darragh McCarthy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CVLCQMFVVG53FNAIF2ZGJJ3PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Toomevara forward turns 20 this year and already he has played every minute of Tipperary’s campaign. Despite the presence of Jason Forde and Gearóid O’Connor, he is the designated free-taker and has barely put a foot wrong. With Tipp enjoying last weekend off, he was Man of the Match for UL as they added the Freshers' hurling title to their Fitzgibbon Cup. The spring couldn’t have gone better so far, for him or for Tipperary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHAZNAODL5FX7MFOLLMOMKR2E4","additional_properties":{},"content":"And obviously, they know. It’s the first week of March and they’ve beaten a Galway team that didn’t turn up, an understrength Wexford, and a Cork side that is still finding its feet. Limerick beat them with half their starters missing. Kilkenny will take endless pleasure in kneecapping their fine start to the year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AG72VHQEJNG7DE5TQQZBPD3LD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“When it turns in Tipp, it turns quick,” notes McGrath. “They know that. The championship starts with Limerick in Thurles and then you’re straight off down to play Cork in Cork the following weekend. So nobody is under any illusions, getting out of Munster is going to be incredibly difficult.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OTRAS2YD6NHFXKICZ3UXQH26L4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But there was a great feeling around Thurles on that Saturday night after the Cork game. That’s important. The crowd love to see a Tipperary team that is honest and hard-working and that has a few new lads coming through and showing they can do it. There’s a real honesty in the group, you can see that. It’s the number one sport in the county and people are enjoying seeing what might come together.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GFTM66YHFVCQXHVZOEF3AHOSH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s a start, no more than that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSBOZC276JHYRKZDFV3NXXBJQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Starts matter, all the same. No point pretending they don’t.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Malachy Clerkin"}},"name":"Malachy Clerkin"}]},"description":{"basic":"Green shoots as Liam Cahill hands out 10 debuts in campaign to date as Tipperary lead hurling’s top flight"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Young guns like Darragh McCarthy give Tipperary the start they need","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"GN374DGXDZCR7E43JR3PBSILVU","auth":{"1":"8400283522cd6f3572803ded6ca826baf2c29392c27357445b2aa8ed7ccd7513"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/GN374DGXDZCR7E43JR3PBSILVU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/young-guns-like-darragh-mccarthy-give-tipperary-the-start-they-need/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"QKDLYYYVDJCTLBV2DHNIS3RYUM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":340,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/bd5def9a-fbc9-4e30-bd8a-0b651cef9c41/versions/1741361333/media/937367fe903c1cc3d390ace87fd6b4af_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/kevin-kilbane-fai-must-aim-at-league-of-ireland-players-being-picked-for-the-republics-squad/","content_elements":[{"_id":"UMPINHZLHZDITLQ664V4XJ757Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602036},"content":"We are not as far off a League of Ireland player being capped by Heimir Hallgrímsson or so he might have us believe.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A7YD7JN2C5GEZLOYVRQFBOTNRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602037},"content":"The Republic of Ireland head coach has allowed the reaction to his December comments, about Shamrock Rovers players having a better chance of playing international football by moving abroad, to simmer.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KYBF7TGRXNF2ZMSD76OGKJ7FIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hallgrímsson could have started a healthy conversation around the topic by replying to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/2025/02/16/shamrock-rovers-stephen-bradley-rebukes-out-of-touch-heimir-hallgrimsson/\" target=\"_blank\">Stephen Bradley’s criticism</a>. I share the Rovers manager’s perspective that the comments were disrespectful to the league.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QLYJCPQHENFIVDK6GP6W2HIBD4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602039},"content":"It also brings into question how much the Ireland manager knows about the work being done, on the ground, to enhance the club game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J4OOEYIMAVB7XHIFR4AVYSSBII","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602040},"content":"Even from Canada, where I live, the league has captured my attention like never before. Virgin Media is producing a decent package around the games. And there’s a chance to watch teenagers like Michael Noonan and Mason Melia before they move to England where fellow forwards Troy Parrott, Adam Idah and even Evan Ferguson have struggled to succeed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WPFGAA4TWRFERLRI7Y5T5VA6T4","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"LT5RCDWSXVDSDPMRIFRIOPF73Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602041},"content":"The next wave of Noonans and Melias might see the benefit of staying home until they are 20 or 21 to play European football so they are ready, like Parrott going to the Netherlands and Idah at Celtic, to perform at a higher level.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J42R2BDCDBEGVJVJZORLODAS3E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602042},"content":"The Molde team that knocked Rovers out of the Uefa Conference League included four Norwegian internationals with a combined total of 85 caps.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7IKVE5CPIJB2ZIUU45K7SWTSPE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602043},"content":"The League of Ireland is not there yet, but Rovers, Shelbourne, St Patrick’s Athletic and Waterford are travelling in the right direction. If the FAI and Hallgrímsson are to guide Irish football back to their stated ambition of regular tournament football, Dublin derbies like Rovers versus St Pat’s last night will feature plenty of internationals. Old and young.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UOFZT74GCFCHXDUHKQCIONPV2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602044},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/2024/02/20/world-cups-euros-and-champions-league-new-fai-plan-targets-glorious-future-for-irish-teams/\" target=\"_blank\">Marc Canham’s player pathway plan</a>, published last year, asked us to “imagine what it would be like for Irish football if we had a League of Ireland club regularly competing in the Uefa Champions League [by 2036]?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFAFRW6E7JAEVNRSFQNTADYITQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602045},"content":"An academy system would ensure that Irish clubs could produce every international not born outside Ireland. The intention is to keep talent until a British or European club pays market value for them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BM2NZSVHDJHUNMDWMQLIJFV2QQ","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"ONHAYH2NSZHYVMK3KA7HAAJ3HQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602046},"content":"Hallgrímsson’s brief is not complicated: qualify for the 2026 World Cup in North America. It is almost certain that no League of Ireland players will make the cut for the squad he names next Thursday to face Bulgaria, but when call-ups eventually happen, the player will get offers to go abroad and the club will turn a tidy profit. That is how a functioning system works.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TYAT5KDMMRGTZBRBG3ZE7KAWC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602047},"content":"The absence of home-based players in the senior squad is not a good reason for the manager to avoid Shels versus Cork City at Tolka Park or St Pat’s versus Bohemians at Richmond Park next Friday night. Even better, he could make the trip to Drogheda and speak to Bradley in person.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LVLGZCL3J5AM3PGZVUSMQ5H53E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602049},"content":"Thomas Tuchel was dragged over the coals by the British media for attending “only” 17 matches in the six weeks since he became the England manager. The FA took this seriously enough to release a statement explaining his movements and reasons for missing fixtures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDLCCOJG35FENEFATNRIFLPSXQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602051},"content":"Tuchel is a failure if England do not win the World Cup. Hallgrímsson could be kept on for Euro 2028 if Ireland reach a qualification play-off. Different expectations. Different standards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDSK3B2GPRAZ7G5YEYXGZBT2ZQ","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"2DKOEH3LKREEDDNAGHDWTJSWNM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602052},"content":"Hallgrímsson is correct about the inevitability of the best players in a small market earning a lucrative move to a bigger one. That is presumably what he meant about Rovers’ players. But the FAI must aim towards League of Ireland players earning selection to the senior squad; like Norway and every mid-tier European nation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4HZVQ6JOKJCJNCZY5CPIKEWWYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602053},"content":"Ideally, our most talented players should leave Ireland and they should squeeze the most out of short careers before finishing up back at home like Greg Cunningham at Galway United.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XDEUNHDS2BEWBNRLLHLDCJDHXY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602054},"content":"Back in 2010 then Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini told then Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni about a natural successor for Kevin Kilbane at left back. I remember Cunningham coming into the squad and replacing me in a friendly against <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/2022/12/02/kevin-kilbane-not-to-blow-my-own-trumpet-but-i-did-a-comprehensive-man-marking-job-on-messi/\" target=\"_blank\">Messi and Argentina</a>. His career was interrupted by a leg break before he recovered to make more than 300 appearances in England, mainly at Preston North End.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5XISS3A2UFCLZOHL4STH7NA3SA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602055},"content":"Now, at 34, Cunningham is captain of his hometown team. That’s a proper career.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M4F53IHV4BC7BOR6ZQ7PD326MM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602056},"content":"Hopefully, Hallgrímsson continues to express his opinion. After working in Iceland, Qatar and Jamaica, he offers a unique perspective. But whoever eventually replaces him should come from the League of Ireland. If that decision was made today, it would come down to Bradley or Damien Duff.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KOXVTHVZA5GPBHDMFTKMAM6IBU","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"TRPPPOYBF5BJNARS6SEPJ3TB6A","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602057},"content":"Eventually, bridges need to be mended with the two managers who regularly lampoon how the FAI conducts its business.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HLEXCNXKEVA5XKVS3GBK5PTTWU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602058},"content":"In the meantime, Hallgrímsson has important decisions to make in advance of Bulgaria as Gavin Bazunu and John Egan, both mainstays under Stephen Kenny, are fit again and Evan Ferguson is inching back to match sharpness at West Ham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NTCEC66PHRDFNKX6PFW7CLQNNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602059},"content":"Nobody expects Ferguson to finish his career in the League of Ireland but over the coming years, the recent predicaments faced by Bazunu and Egan could be solved by a move home – however briefly. Bazunu needed games to recover from an achilles injury so his agent secured a half-season loan from Southampton to Standard Liege in Belgium. Egan’s achilles tear saw him released by Sheffield United with challenging moves, at 32, to Burnley and now Hull City.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQJMUAYZIJFN7F3CBSB4UHFHP4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741280602060},"content":"Neither player had many options. If we are to take Hallgrímsson on his last statement, the League of Ireland was not a feasible destination. We’re not there yet but, sooner rather than later, a return home to get fit for international selection should be a no-brainer.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Kevin Kilbane"}},"name":"Kevin Kilbane"}]},"description":{"basic":"Manager Heimir Hallgrímsson’s contentious view on players moving abroad to further international chances may have sparked a healthy conversation "},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Kevin Kilbane: FAI must aim at League of Ireland players being picked for the Republic’s squad ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"YLXL7EWTBNAJXC6JQHKGMY2HRY","auth":{"1":"88b4d67ab2a57225cb3767d4bedbfc44823846d662ac8a8bc8c9796e13093ce9"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/YLXL7EWTBNAJXC6JQHKGMY2HRY.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/08/kevin-kilbane-fai-must-aim-at-league-of-ireland-players-being-picked-for-the-republics-squad/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"TVICBNDQMRDPHIXB5C4LEEA4M4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":272,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/76cf8a1b-54ef-412a-81a5-19c8fefafd14/versions/1741387250/media/cd4dce2fe7f1970e9c59104e1eeb261a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/danny-grant-shoots-shamrock-rovers-to-first-win-of-the-season-against-st-pats/","content_elements":[{"_id":"CSODLQ3FXZGKJNBRJP76OQDBVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Premier Division: Shamrock Rovers 1 (Grant 64) St Patrick’s Athletic 0","type":"header"},{"_id":"VUFXZXAMBBAQZCFOK5DRBRZGSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Danny Grant settled this tactical Dublin Derby before 8,093 supporters in Tallaght Stadium and the Virgin Media television audience.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UEBBRNUICFEOVNI3MKPNN3ME3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"There was little fanfare when Grant recently swapped Bohemians for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shamrock-rovers/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shamrock-rovers/\">Shamrock Rovers</a>. An attacker by trade, he has been forced to fit into Stephen Bradley’s wing back system as Darragh Burns and Neil Farruiga swapped the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/league-of-ireland/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/league-of-ireland/\">League of Ireland</a> for the fourth tier of English football.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S62FE4IBSVFXJJKWEQXHKFTBAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 25-year-old has operated on the left and right as a Swiss army knife, plugging whatever gap Rovers need plugging.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUDZFLY6MRA6BIIGK3S3BKIZBQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"As <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/st-patricks-athletic/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/st-patricks-athletic/\">St Patrick’s Athletic</a> threatened to grab hold of this contest around the hour mark, Grant picked up possession wide right a good 60 metres from goal. The St Pat’s defence was not set so he stormed inside Tom Grivosti, which forced the back-pedalling Joe Redmond and Barry Baggley to invite the clean finish.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JD2FP7YNKVHPLNYRKIWOQOVHRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Buzzing,” he said afterwards. “It is a chance to kick-start the season.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QEU4B3DAKZAJDIDT4EZLZXV27A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Grant’s first goal for Rovers was enough to settle this meeting of title contenders as results elsewhere conspired to bunch the Dublin clubs in an convoluted midtable.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7P7VZX6H55FFLDSENSQXM564YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Drogheda United went top of the Premier Division after a Warren Davis screamer at Tolka Park handed champions Shelbourne their first loss of the season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4G3EZ2HOJZF7HCXIPDXSU54JII","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GJCYPQM6D5C6BNXPV5WGWR2KZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The result of the night, however, was in Waterford as Colm Whelan scored a first-half hat-trick to secure a much needed 3-0 win for Bohemians at the RSC.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QGL6J7IZZJG67P733TOKDRC5SE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Back in Tallaght, Stephen Kenny came with a plan to stymie Rovers. Essentially, St Pat’s went man on man as Mason Melia was handed a working brief in the number 10 slot with Jake Mulraney and Zach Elbouzedi either side of the teenager while Chris Forrester and Baggley manned the midfield barricades.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J6ISTRGYQFFBNONNCOY22CNNQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tactically, it was the smart approach. Visually, it turned the game into a cautious chess match.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6MYJJUGVZREBTPJC2DAAMPF46Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Baggley came into the St Pat’s team after Monday’s 2-0 defeat of Derry City to dilute Graham Burke’s creative juices. The midfielder took to his man-marking duties with relish. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BEJTM4BBNBAB5L3NJCP36YCZ5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not so long ago, Kenny was considering Mulraney for international selection. Here he counted on the winger’s curving deliveries into the Rovers box to break the stalemate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2E2JZHBMNH65IGSEMTXTAAPF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mulraney earned a yellow card for diving after minimal contact from Dan Cleary. A second coming together in the box should have resulted in referee Rob Hennessy sending Mulraney off or awarding a penalty. Instead, the official waved play on.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YT3KCZJEMVGWLHLU2LP5SL5YBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Melia struggled to find space to turn and test Ed McGinty in the Rovers goal. In fact, there was a combined total of zero shots on target in the first-half. At least Rovers ripped off five inaccurate attempts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBX5LFRDYNDAVC2OR6CVMDWCCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Kenny plan was audible: “We got to move it quicker (in transition),” he implored Joe Redmond as the broad-shouldered centre back strolled over halfway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2NO7M7SF2ZDUVJRUX6CKUUNL7M","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"OQEMLSCH4BD5BL5RZTXMAWLIH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Josh Honohan was included this week in Heimir Hallgrímsson’s provisional 40-man <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/republic-of-ireland-mnt/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/republic-of-ireland-mnt/\">Republic of Ireland</a> squad for the Nations League relegation play-offs against Bulgaria. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WDP3ZKPCINB3LHBXP5MWMCVDUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yet Hallgrímsson choose The Late Late Show couch over a trip to Tallaght to assess whether the 23-year-old can do a job for his country.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVTLJPRH55FM5OMSTMWH5PRUPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Ireland manager is due at West Brom on Saturday to catch Mikey Johnston and Jayson Molumby against QPR and Jimmy Dunne at 3pm before a 25-minute spin from the Hawthorns to Molineux to watch Matt Doherty in action for Wolves against Everton and Jake O’Brien in the 8pm kick-off. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VEOFJ63ICVGDZOXGVLNWICB2UM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Honohan, like every other wide player on display, got on the ball plenty of times only to be blocked by St Pat’s dogged right back Axel Sjöberg.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YTYCAM4CGVELDNVTJNZAGOR4GU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Swede did gift Aaron Green a chance on 55 minutes, but the veteran striker’s lob landed on the roof of Joe Anang’s net.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X6TOKZQQ65ACBGIJ4SLGVD5VSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Elsewhere, Galway United secured a 1-1 draw away to Derry and Sligo Rovers versus Cork City also finished 1-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HTEY7TGNBBAXBNM45FSTLYFJ7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>SHAMROCK ROVERS: </b>McGinty; Cleary, Lopes, O’Sullivan; Grant, Healy, Watts (Byrne, 71 mins), McEneff (O’Neill, 84), Honohan; Burke (Noonan, 70); Greene (Gaffney, 78). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RFZLJDIJSVECZAXZBBSCN7MK2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ST PATRICK’S ATHLETIC:</b> Anang; Sjoberg, Redmond, Grivosti (Turner, 79 mins), Breslin (Kazeem, 57); Baggley, Forrester; Elbouzedi, Melia (Kavanagh, 70), Mulraney (Power, 70); Keena.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YZDTRO3M7ZHIJJBTEOCLILZQ64","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee: </b>R Hennessy.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gavin Cummiskey"}},"name":"Gavin Cummiskey"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former Bohs recruit bags first goal for Rovers at Tallaght Stadium"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T22:35:43.542Z","headlines":{"basic":"Danny Grant shoots Shamrock Rovers to first win of the season","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"P26TDQHYQVHSLLL56K66DPGLXA","auth":{"1":"19d2bce15f069e206ecec331801f5f2815e93134f727dd0dbb2a864a1f41d892"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/P26TDQHYQVHSLLL56K66DPGLXA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/danny-grant-shoots-shamrock-rovers-to-first-win-of-the-season-against-st-pats/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"R6NCNKWRGBEWDOKF6TUCOKMVCQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":279,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/2db4d865-fbac-40e9-b61c-2736ce16bc18/versions/1741377534/media/51b366ca1a19ecd23c706cac164e6229_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/liverpool-on-verge-of-90-year-old-scoring-record-but-arne-slot-wants-more/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Luis Enrique described <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liverpool-fc\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liverpool-fc\">Liverpool</a>’s front three as “fighter jets” before their visit to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paris-saint-germain\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paris-saint-germain\">Paris Saint‑Germain</a> on Wednesday. He may have succeeded in grounding them but <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/arne-slot\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/arne-slot\">Arne Slot</a>’s side still found a way to soar.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKDTLOKZERCFBGE5NO2JQKXXFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The exhilarating, aggressive football of Jürgen Klopp has given way to quality control under his successor, but Liverpool are no less effective for that shift. The league leaders, who can go 16 points clear with victory over Southampton on Saturday, have scored more goals after 28 games of this <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/premier-league/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/premier-league/\">Premier League</a> campaign (66) than at the same stage of their last title-winning season, under Klopp in 2019-20 (64). Plymouth, Tottenham (in a Carabao Cup semi-final they ultimately lost 4-1 on aggregate) and Nottingham Forest are the only teams to prevent Slot’s team scoring in 44 matches this season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KG6TA3PT3ZB7ZOJIBCJOXJWCMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Liverpool have scored two or more goals in their last 18 games at Anfield in all competitions. Another two at home to Southampton and it will be the longest such sequence in the English top flight since Sunderland scored two or more in 19 consecutive games in 1935. And some people call them lucky. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWQJITQ3HVFCHH6Y7FFOYOJZV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not that equalling a 90-year-old feat is Slot’s priority, as he called on Liverpool’s players and fans to treat the visit of the league’s bottom club as “the first of three finals in the next week”, before Tuesday’s Champions League second leg against PSG and Sunday’s Carabao Cup showpiece against Newcastle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V656SOWHL5F7XDRMXDWZF7QSZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s always nice but it is not the record I came to England for,” said the Dutchman on the opportunity to equal Sunderland’s run. “We are not focused on those records, we focus on Southampton and then the Champions League and then the cup final.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VCQB2PVXBRDYRJXJWULV2W2SWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But it’s a sign that we are balanced and a sign that we have a lot of quality with players who can score goals in our squad. It’s also a sign of consistency and that is what you need, not only scoring goals but also not conceding in a season where you are fighting for the things we are.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"BRDDFIQ4RDYYJQEMVFJVGXBDMQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"EK5TP4TUMZET3BS5IDZ3VJOE3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mohamed Salah’s phenomenal output includes a goal or an assist in each of the last 11 league games at Anfield. He requires one goal to become the third-highest scorer in Liverpool’s history outright with 242 and two more league goals to go joint-fifth on the all-time Premier League goalscorer’s chart, alongside Sergio Agüero with 184.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OCNAGLJDFVEQJLYYA2ASI6WK34","additional_properties":{},"content":"No one can touch the 32-year‑old’s contribution of 30 goals and 22 assists in all competitions this season but the load is being shared. Cody Gakpo and Luis Díaz are both in double figures, with 16 and 13 goals respectively, Diogo Jota has eight despite another injury-hit campaign and the midfielders Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones have a combined total of 15.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PT7RFPQS3NEWFGMZ7GTI743KEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Slot envisages a day when Liverpool are even more prolific. The head coach explained: “Wolves was difficult, Southampton away was difficult, the League Cup there was difficult and against Paris Saint-Germain it was really, really difficult. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NJHW4NUHBNH5XPZQCTK4MDNFZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Yes, we are a really good team but we are not a team that every week wins 4- or 5-0 and after half an hour it is already 3-0. We have seen a team doing that a few times in recent years and I think, longer ago, Liverpool also had that where, after half an hour, it was already 3-0. We are not that team yet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A5J2F7AAJVBAVB2PKL42NKU3AI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is somewhere we are trying to go to and therefore it is something we need to improve a lot. But what this team does have is fighting spirit and until now they have always found a way to win a game and not always in the same manner, not always dominating ball possession, sometimes also by defending really hard and being good in transition. We know we have to be on top of our game because even if we are on top of our game we mostly win by one-goal margins.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y7LABMNQTFA6RMXIEJNHV3EQHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The latest example, in Paris on Wednesday, was forged on an astonishing goalkeeping display by Alisson. It would be remiss to focus entirely on Liverpool’s striking prowess after that performance. With Giorgi Mamardashvili arriving from Valencia this summer for an initial £25 million and the Brazilian showing why, in Slot’s eyes, he is the best goalkeeper in the world against PSG, the Georgia international has a major fight on his hands to claim the first-choice role he craves next season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGWYGPAV6NABHIZVLPG26UN65I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He is in just as important a phase of the season with Valencia as we are in so it wouldn’t be smart for me to talk about him,” said Slot of Mamardashvili. “But in general I can say that if you want to play for Liverpool, you have to accept there is competition. If you don’t want to face competition then Liverpool is not the best place to go to.” – Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Andy Hunter"}]},"description":{"basic":"Manager says team can be more prolific despite 1935 Sunderland scoring streak being under threat on Saturday"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T22:31:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Liverpool on verge of 90-year-old scoring record but Arne Slot wants more","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"4D5CTYPOETJYVG7IBD7DZDEWRE","auth":{"1":"9b7d5f33c0eb332ff36e3c0d4ab5d0fbe3f6aa33726c0857557cf380bdc88a14"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/4D5CTYPOETJYVG7IBD7DZDEWRE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/liverpool-on-verge-of-90-year-old-scoring-record-but-arne-slot-wants-more/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"5DPAVZSAAVEGFAEXV55MQKAZBE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":151,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/78e373a4-800e-4b01-9a48-5a9dd34220f0/versions/1741368991/media/124e3197b9ab856add70c5734b12af9d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/a-day-off-is-a-day-off-pep-guardiola-relaxed-over-jack-grealish-pub-pictures/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KNO3NZAWGBGSTFITOBD5YO6FVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/pep-guardiola\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/pep-guardiola\">Pep Guardiola</a> is not concerned about images that emerged this week showing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/jack-grealish\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/jack-grealish\">Jack Grealish</a> socialising, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/manchester-city\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/manchester-city\">Manchester City</a>’s manager stating he judges players on how they train and play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTGNXEISENCNBE3ICAZUZJWWZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Grealish had two days off after last Saturday’s 3-1 FA Cup fifth-round win over Plymouth. On the Sunday he was pictured in a pub in east Manchester and then at two different places, both of which also served alcohol, in the north-east later that day. Guardiola was asked if he is at ease regarding these pictures of Grealish, who was City’s record signing when he joined the club from Aston Villa for £100m in August 2021.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFY44XNN2JHKBIRCAVM3LK2BFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They know what they have to do,” said Guardiola. “A day off is a day off, there is no training. They have private lives to do whatever they want. I’m not going to control what they do in their private life. I judge what I see on the pitch, the training sessions and the performances in the game. That’s where I judge the players.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YQEOKITMZZBUPJ6STOPTT4LHPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Grealish has suffered another injury-hampered season which, together with uneven form, has limited him to only 14 starts in all competitions. Guardiola was asked if he would understand the player seeking to depart in the close season to try to guarantee game time elsewhere with a view to securing an England place before the World Cup in 2026.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KP4AE3A76VDD7CRXBPOGV4R2CE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I understand all the frustrations of all my players,” said Guardiola. “It’s so good to have a dream to play in the World Cup and the European Cup with his national team. I’m not bothered by that. What happens in terms of Jack, in terms of everyone, they will be treated at the end of the season. But now we are playing for many important things for the club. I want the best not just for Jack but for everyone. He is a player for Man City. What will happen? I don’t know what is going to happen.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q37TLMJ3PVH2LJ22VMVKAQCZOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"City will travel to the United States after the current campaign to compete in the month-long Club World Cup. Guardiola is intent that his players enjoy the experience. “They told me the golf courses are really nice in America,” said the 54-year-old. “We are going to try to enjoy the experience. After 11 months [playing constantly], I don’t want them to sit in their rooms for 24 hours – of course they have to behave well, or we’ll be in trouble.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NXXQRQXO2VHIPG5NZD37PQIKV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Following surgery on a foot problem, Nathan Aké could be out for 11 weeks, Guardiola said. — Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Jamie Jackson"}]},"description":{"basic":"City manager says players judged on pitch performance: ‘I’m not going to control what they do in their private life’"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T22:30:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘A day off is a day off’: Pep Guardiola relaxed over Jack Grealish pub pictures","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BPBG6TWNH7IQEWS2WGKMKAFWFU","auth":{"1":"5297f07b1578f5d38bcdbc54a7471eed88416aeaf9e94d9a49806bb1a9fdb3b6"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BPBG6TWNH7IQEWS2WGKMKAFWFU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/a-day-off-is-a-day-off-pep-guardiola-relaxed-over-jack-grealish-pub-pictures/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"LX4GUUOC6NGR5CEF7FPZSUCHS4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":293,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/6dfdfb2f-60a6-4d6c-b799-5b159d15c7aa/versions/1741386120/media/646eb38dd3dfc868d01b4ab3a51bdb9b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/three-yellow-cards-do-little-to-halt-france-against-ireland-u20s/","content_elements":[{"_id":"ERBHDA6FV5BWXNPKQXH4E5DYXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under-20 Six Nations: Ireland 12 France 22","type":"header"},{"_id":"YDJJ2YWDE5DADEOSDCITO33QQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"There was disappointment for the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\">Ireland</a> Under-20s at Virgin Media Park in Cork as they fell to a 10-point defeat against <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\">France</a> in the fourth round of the Under-20 <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\">Six Nations</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ADXCVTSVKVCBRC5GH7MKN43XVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Thanks in no small part to clinical finishes in either half from Lyam Akrab, France emerged from the Leeside venue with a bonus point triumph. Having previously established an unbeaten run of 15 games across the three previous editions of the tournament, Ireland have now suffered three losses from four games in their 2025 campaign.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GEY43QF3VZGU7BILS6UHOOPBDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Owing to the concession of three penalties inside the opening eight minutes, Ireland found themselves under intense pressure from the early stages. The persistence of Les Bleus looked set to pay off when Tom Leveque gathered a cross field kick on the right-flank, but superb defensive work by outhalf Tom Wood forced the Bayonne winger into dropping the ball just as he appeared destined to dot down.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDF7XJVHMJGKPCVPDHW2DCKJLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite failing to finish off this particular move, the visitors continued to attack in waves and finally opened the scoring in the 15th minute. Fresh from registering the quickest try in Top 14 history against Perpignan last weekend, Bordeaux Begles fullback Jon Echegaray rounded off an outstanding team move with a finish to the left of the posts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IT7Y473KLRFJFKNGMWZI3DFKTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"While the resulting conversion from Luka Keletaona drifted past the target, France were in for a second try just shy of the first-quarter mark – Echegaray breaking powerfully into the Irish 22 before passing out wide for Leveque to sprint over in the right-corner.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SMMYVXHGK5C7XH2AV2GGCZOBKI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"EKX2BQC5A5BKTMNEK4UBSM3IYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Echegaray was proving to be the standout performer of the opening period and he subsequently released Noa Traversier for a seemingly routine run over the line on 28 minutes. Yet a premature celebration from the flanker opened the door for Will Wootton to produce a try-saving tackle and Ireland received a much-needed boost when Traversier was yellow carded for a dangerous tackle on Wood moments later.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVOM64KL6NDU7EXKQ53E55CGWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Remarkably, France would finish the half with just 12 players after Bartholome Sanson and Echegaray both joined Traversier in the sin bin. The temporary dismissal of Echegaray also delivered a penalty try for Ireland, but an earlier five-pointer from French hooker Akrab meant Neil Doak’s men still trailed 15-7 at the interval.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7KIJPUIABHINA6UPT5A5IRS7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The cards left the hosts with a major numerical advantage on the resumption, albeit France had welcomed Traversier and Sanson back into the fray by the seventh minute of the second half. The half-time scoreline remained intact by the time the visitors were eventually restored to their full compliment, and Cédric Laborde’s charges almost immediately wrapped up a bonus point when Akrab applied the finishing touches to another lineout maul in the 52nd minute.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QCD3XWONJATLFS3SOFVN2OBFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In contrast, Ireland largely struggled to create sustained attacking momentum during the opening hour, but coinciding with the introduction of a plethora of replacements they started to gain more of a stranglehold towards the French posts inside the final-quarter. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNFLEPXGJ5BKLJVX2AXKSPO6KY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hooker Henry Walker was one of the replacements and was perilously close to touching down at the back of a lineout maul on 66 minutes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IK2DZEQ4O5ASBDWZ7QCLZ23PJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"While France stood firm during that attacking spell, Ireland finally took their reward when Leinster winger Ciaran Mangan completed an extended move with a stoppage-time try.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EMHJXARSH5GJBHTGY5GMOP3BME","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>SCORING SEQUENCE –</b> <b>15 mins:</b> Echegaray try 0-5; <b>18:</b> Leveque try 0-10; <b>33:</b> Akrab try 0-15; <b>40:</b> penalty try 7-15 <b>Half-time 7-15</b>; <b>52:</b> Akrab try, Keletaona con 7-22; <b>81:</b> Mangan try 12-22.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WRZNR5DGRJGQZPKGZ3XLPWKKRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND:</b> D Green; C Molony, G O’Leary Kareen, E Smyth, C Mangan; T Wood, W Wooton; B Bohan, M Yarr, A Mullan; M Ronan, B Corrigan; M Foy, B Power, E McCarthy (capt).","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZO7KIZX6CBHGRF6MWFEYG2WII4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements: </b>H Walker for Yarr, T McAllister for Mullan (both 51);<b> </b>D Walsh for Power, C Kennelly for Ronan (both 57); P Moore for Bohan, C Logan for Wootton (both 62); S Wisniewski for Wood (67); C Fahy for Smyth (69).","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z7UJNEMMHJFQDJVG4O5IRRMNSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>FRANCE:</b> J Echegaray; T Leveque, S Daunivucu, F Brau Boirie, N Donguy; L Keletaona, B Tilloles; J Christophe, L Akrab, M Megherbi; B Sanson, C Mezou (capt); A Deliance, N Traversier, B Britz.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X766BU3U6FGF5K45F22CL2OXQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements: </b>EJ Jabea Njocke for Megherbi, J Nguimbous for Britz (both 52 mins); S Tolofua for Sanson (57); S Daroque for Tilloles, J Cotarmanac’h for Keletaona (both 60); JY Liufau for Christophe (65); Q Algay for Akrab (66); O Cowie for Donguy (71).","type":"text"},{"_id":"R4S2G5C2OJGLHGXMF5UP6VCU7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Yellow card: </b>Traversier<b> </b>(31 mins),<b> </b>Sanson (37), Echegaray (38).","type":"text"},{"_id":"HEPAI7Z2ONB2TLCALLNG6TREQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee: </b>G Colby (South Africa).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Daire Walsh"}]},"description":{"basic":"Visitors take 22-12 victory at Musgrave Park"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T22:16:54.649Z","headlines":{"basic":"Three yellow cards do little to halt France against Ireland U20s","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6THLZP37HFGZBOAULTMSKXOD7M","auth":{"1":"d1a663775af32cda49f52e33986294a38b926687203c94dd2d8344bb48247cf0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6THLZP37HFGZBOAULTMSKXOD7M.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/three-yellow-cards-do-little-to-halt-france-against-ireland-u20s/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"JST26UWRYBC5BH675RZ7JDEOIY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":395,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/7d61dcbe-13cd-43e8-aad2-720e079b0d71/versions/1741383707/media/409a56c0cb5999444cf11e20aba765b7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sarah-lavin-finishes-fourth-in-60m-hurdles-final-at-european-indoor-championships/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NNKIQSFFNJB5JHXNNNQN7MMA6A","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829592},"content":"It was the fastest race in the history of European women’s indoor sprint hurdles and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sarah-lavin/\" target=\"_self\">Sarah Lavin</a> was right in the thick of it, before just falling short of making the medal podium despite running her best time all season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2MVABBF4V5DHRH4TCD7SZBHYPE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829593},"content":"In the end it was heartbreak for the 30-year-old from Limerick, Lavin finishing fourth in the 60m hurdles at the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-indoor-championships/\" target=\"_self\">European Indoor Championships</a> in Apeldoorn behind a trio of women who all ran their best on the night too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6U4RMIZCGNGVZCYER4XZCSJLAI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829594},"content":"Ditaji Kambundji from Switzerland powered to gold in 7.67 seconds to break the European and Championship record, and naturally a Swiss record too. Two-time previous champion and local Dutch hope Nadine Visser was second in 7.72, also a national record, and Poland’s Pia Skrzyszowska won bronze in 7.83, also a season best.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJ4NCKY3UJHDBJJ2SOWLFLOCQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829595},"content":"All three had made championship podiums before, the brilliant 22-year-old Kambundji third last time out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5AKGQZZMIBC4FMKEJJFPLB6NPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829596},"content":"Then came Lavin in 7.92 seconds. Despite getting an excellent start, she simply couldn’t get herself into that medal winning position in the five-hurdles race, each 33 inches high.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YSX4N6GD3FBETHAL73XWZHBIJM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829597},"content":"Such are the close margins in sprint hurdles. It was also Lavin’s fourth consecutive major indoor final, having previously finished fifth and seventh in the World Indoors (2022 and 2024), and sixth at the last European Indoors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VXH55DWBGNADBM3E6REPSB56YE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829598},"content":"Derval O’Rourke twice won bronze medals at this level, in 2009 and in 2013, and yet for Lavin this might well have proved her best chance to join her, even as she becomes a model of consistency on the major championship stage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFE6JISTZBC7PFXRKR7QFUJOHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829599},"content":"“It’s probably the fastest fourth place ever,” said Lavin after the race. “I’m competing with the best girls ever, that have been in Europe. I still have the World Indoors in two weeks’ time in China, but at the same time, I’ve gone seventh, sixth, fifth, fourth (in the last four indoor championships), so I’m going in the right direction.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLK3KIDCGND7BJJQPSLRUCGXJY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829600},"content":"“But fourth is fourth, no one is happy with fourth. It’s just one of those things, but at the same time, considering where I was a few weeks ago, I’m sure I’ll look back in a few days and be more measured about it. I just need to raise my own standards, and we’ll find a way.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JCBHUYFA7AVYDAPBOCITRMGLGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829601},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TQXJJN2UBZBOTOTX4KAMZ2DXQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829602},"content":"Earlier on Friday night, Jakob Ingebrigtsen added another European title as if jogging down his driveway to check his letterbox, winning the 1,500m exactly the way he wanted in 3:36.57 after moving from last to first with four and a half laps to go, running 26.1 seconds for the final lap.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7CQOP73KJGW7JRKEZBGFKE3DU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829603},"content":"Still only 24, that makes it 22 European titles in all for the Norwegian, including cross country and junior titles – along with his five world records, two Olympic gold, and two World titles. The incredibly gifted Ingebrigtsen who keeps on giving.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IYPXQIOY2NFKVND2OWLUAWIHPE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829604},"content":"He’s not finished in Apeldoorn yet, back on the track on Saturday morning looking to make another 3,000m final, and complete a third consecutive indoor double.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JEMFHMKEAJBIDNMHGKNQRPB7QE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829605},"content":"Britain’s Georgia Hunter Bell wasn’t quite as fancied to win the women’s 1,500m, but appeared poised for victory when running at the front for most of the seven and a half laps, the 31-year-old looking to complete her medal set having won silver at the European outdoors last June, and bronze at the Paris Olympics.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TPB722G2W5C7RJQFUOHWNIUHGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829606},"content":"Instead, Hunter Bell was passed by three runners in the final sprint for home, Agatha Guillemot from France surprising herself as much as anyone to win gold in 4:07.23.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RBJPBPPQ6FFANHQ735RSVXE7IY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829607},"content":"In the Friday morning session, some 14 hours after <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sharlene-mawdsley/\" target=\"_self\">Sharlene Mawdsley</a> ran the fastest anchor leg of the mixed 4x400m relay final, she <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sharlene-mawdsley-withdraws-from-400m-heats-at-european-indoors/\" target=\"_self\">withdrew from her heat of the individual 400m</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z7RYAVNJQBFCXOA4WHOVRCVWLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829608},"content":"Mawdsley later explained she had suffered a minor hamstring injury during the warm-up: “Unfortunately I’ve had to withdraw from the 400m this morning due to a slight hamstring injury in the warm up,” she posted on Instagram.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YLEPDVD3OZHB5LLRARB52PAAK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829609},"content":"“I’m devastated after my run in yesterday’s relay splitting a 49.9 but I’ll be back for outdoors.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQSIZ4SWLNFQ4PYSMR2TKL7MI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829610},"type":"image"},{"_id":"QRWMCD37D5B75MN2RGLOIJL3LU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829611},"content":"Despite Mawdsley’s 49.93-second split on Thursday night, the Irish quartet still fell short of a medal, finishing fifth, victory going to the home team, the Netherlands. Mawdsley’s interest in Apeldoorn is now over and she will also miss the women’s 4x400m relay, run as a straight six-team final on Sunday evening.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W3AQJ2P5VVFB7EEGSA26HRDGKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829612},"content":"Another Dutch favourite Lieke Klaver won the second heat in 51.52 seconds, having played no role in their mixed relay success the night before. In that same heat, Ireland’s Lauren Cadden finished fifth in 56.77 seconds, well off her best, having gone out a little too fast in the opening lap. Rachal McCann also went in heat four, and despite running a personal best of 53.16 to finish fourth, that wasn’t enough to progress.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O3A3TEB6QRHBVI5HQ2B4UZXJZU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829613},"content":"Both Mark English and Cian McPhillips endured a tense experience in their heats of the 800m, McPhillips bring tripped down the final backstretch of his race and ending up on the track, as did Bartosz Kitlinsk from Poland in front of him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3JPDRRDX6REI7CROR7IUOOT4GE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829614},"content":"Crucially, both runners got up to finish the race, McPhillips coming home in 1:57.35, and after Kitlinsk’s successfully appealed the contact which had earlier knocked him off his stride, McPhillips too was reinstated on appeal. Both runners will now take their place in the semi-finals on Saturday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MHFOILED5ZBI7LJXZDSP4G6F6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829615},"content":"English is the only member of the team who has won medals at this level before – 800m silver in 2015 and bronze in 2022 – but rode his luck a little too, still in fourth coming off the final bend, before a gap opened up and he finished second in 1:46.42.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ET5M6K7OGVFZXINOYAS6B4HYVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829616},"content":"“It could’ve went anyway to be honest,” said English. “The seedings were a bit strange so I was quite nervous going into the race but thankfully I came through. I figured if I want to do anything at these championships I needed to finish in the top two.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QXPFCIAWD5H5DN5TC5G33TEELA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829617},"content":"<b>Saturday schedule (Irish times)</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RNR5VK3YQ5CXFBRZWSXD7JPZGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829618},"content":"9.20am: Sarah Healy, Jodie McCann – Women’s 3,000m, Round One","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJCSVJ5LPBCRTBJVHKTNM2VAC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829619},"content":"11am: Bori Akinola – Men’s 60m, Round One","type":"text"},{"_id":"D2VKDROALBGMHEGDJEEA3AWHUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829620},"content":"11.45am: Andrew Coscoran, James Gormley – Men’s 3,000m, Round One","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSWUDMA7LRDJJDKMQA44BUFIUM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829621},"content":"12.17pm: Orla Comerford – 60m Para Mixed Classification","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4DPG3IBGNABJHLZGQ5NCA2WPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829622},"content":"7.13pm: Mark English, Cian McPhillips – Men’s 800m, Semi-Final","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Limerick hurdler just outside the medals with season best performance in Apeldoorn"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T21:36:04.732Z","headlines":{"basic":"Sarah Lavin finishes fourth in 60m hurdles final at European Indoor Championships","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2NHFYTJO5D24N4UOQWIPKWUHXM","auth":{"1":"32d3f5a46a8a52393f7f1f7368e916d83512a3179bfab226045fb3bef5edbb9f"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2NHFYTJO5D24N4UOQWIPKWUHXM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sarah-lavin-finishes-fourth-in-60m-hurdles-final-at-european-indoor-championships/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"QAHVIE3U3JHTVLWNJTW2EAGUKM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":168,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/35a9da4e-32df-47b3-a0ef-a7e6acf6b466/versions/1741378923/media/e035f435517251017c1ec2617f408876_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/07/shane-lowry-goes-top-of-leaderboard-at-arnold-palmer-invitational-after-67/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The actions spoke louder than any words. When <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry\">Shane Lowry</a> rolled in an 18-footer from the fringe of the 18th green for his sixth birdie of the second round, a 67 for a midway total of eight-under-par 136 to assume the 36-holes lead in the $20 million Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill Country Club in Orlando, his immediate reaction was to punch the air and to accept the clap on his back from caddie Darren Reynolds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R6IUKWV4IJAELAAKN7M7T4Q6R4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Then, he shook hands with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a>. Lowry’s superb round at Arnie’s Place may have moved him into the lead, but McIlroy’s second successive 70 for 140 meant the Northern Irishman, too, entered the weekend in contention, if cast in the role of one of Lowry’s pursuers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6N2IZHLKTRHENDNJRAAICWODKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry, with a new Srixon driver in his bag for this fourth signature event of the PGA Tour season, has made a great start to this Ryder Cup year and his form over the opening two rounds at Bay Hill – where he finished third behind Scottie Scheffler last year – again reaffirmed just how comfortable in his own skin he is around this piece of Florida real estate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RCJR6UQNJNCHZOHMAAHSWPB2SQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The key? “I think it’s my iron play is good, and conservative when it needs to be. You need that around places like this. I just like the grind of pars are good, you know. There’s a lot of weeks out here where you get where you shoot level par for nine holes and you feel like you’re beating your head against the wall. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNVDEBA7A5G7ZCUZKLDDKGRCUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Whereas, weeks like this, level par after nine you’re actually doing okay, you’re a little run away from having a lovely day. I like the type of golf where any time you break 70 you feel like you’ve had a good day,” said Lowry, whose birdies came at the second, third, seventh, 10th, 13th and 18th, with his only blemish coming on the par-5 16th where he pushed his drive down the right behind trees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DL7Y4S3BBBXXLMIYGKYOO5WTA4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TNFBQUCZV5CRFJNGWM4OHVJ3BI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Playing with McIlroy for a second day was, Lowry, reckoned, good for him: “Look, you’re out there with one of the best golfers in the world, with big crowds, great golf course, lovely weather, what’s not to like? It’s easy to get up for something like that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"POTXY3HFSZBOHPVQSA7CBQFGLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel like I thrive in those situations. And, yeah, I enjoyed my couple of days and I feel like we did play off each other a little bit. I know he probably feels like he could be better, but he’s still in a great position going into the weekend.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RKWVP2FSJNFXNJQTWX2Z4OLRCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry assumed the clubhouse lead two shots clear of first-round leader Wyndham Clark, with McIlroy lurking four shots behind. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6VJGBFKTRCPZK7ND7QZZZR624","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of his mindset headed into the weekend, Lowry remarked: “It’s about putting the ball in play, just fairways and greens are key. If you can hit a load of greens out here, and then you’re probably going to end up with four or five par putts that you need to hole at the right time, and if you can do that you can win the tournament.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"IUZ7AVVHYVC75FETYABXTWRRKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHGBJKH2JRFM7BXPGBGD6ONN5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJ5BRDVFVRHSBPEN2H24UGL6GU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy four shots off the pace but well in the hunt in Florida"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T20:16:56.258Z","headlines":{"basic":"Shane Lowry goes top of leaderboard at Arnold Palmer Invitational after 67","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JEPCCWG5HVP3L4UUXP7TMW57G4","auth":{"1":"a389db3ed12078d01b961fae2477f4ab75f952b5225bb6e3b28e993b73c6f0d1"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JEPCCWG5HVP3L4UUXP7TMW57G4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/07/shane-lowry-goes-top-of-leaderboard-at-arnold-palmer-invitational-after-67/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"UJFD3C327NGRJAOYZAJ6YCLNHU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":303,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/d9323db0-9468-48e4-be9b-c21ca45e074a/versions/1741373764/media/2f38806b6fe951807e09f76b782c0070_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/maro-itoje-urges-england-to-prioritise-victory-over-big-points-haul-against-italy/","content_elements":[{"_id":"WPM74NB5BVBPLC4CGNJGHNQLQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six Nations: England v Italy, Twickenham, Sunday, 3.0 – Live RTÉ 2","type":"header"},{"_id":"LSUD3V6DHZDA7KOWTU3L474FCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/maro-itoje\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/maro-itoje\">Maro Itoje </a>has called on his <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/england-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/england-rugby\">England</a> side to put <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/italy-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/italy-rugby\">Italy</a> to the sword on Sunday before worrying about a bumper points haul that could boost their hopes of clinching the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\">Six Nations</a> title.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KHOEK4QQVBH53NTJIRUCUKREXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"England go in search of a third straight victory of this year’s championship and are hot favourites to do so, having never lost to the Azzurri. Both their recent victories, against France and Scotland, were secured by a solitary point, however, with question marks raised over their clunky attack.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZXSOROEIRBFNBHQFWU3UTL36A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Should France overturn the defending champions Ireland in Dublin, an emphatic victory would improve England’s points difference and with it their chances of lifting the trophy on the final weekend of the championship.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XX7CQNLY6NANHKD4YXSX3OI3C4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Itoje warned his side against chasing a big score from the word go but believes England can turn on the style, insisting that their attack has come in for undue criticism after scoring eight tries in their three matches to date.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNJLAOW725CWPKSOGVCVT3HX4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We want to win, we want to win well,” he said. “But to do that, we have to do all the tough stuff that rugby requires. It’s not going to be an easy game. It’s not going to be a straightforward game. There’s expectation in games like this. In the last two games we didn’t come in as favourites but there was still a level of expectation from ourselves and even external voices as well that England should do well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E55MX5PUKNDRZNOL225RB2JH6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So the level of expectation is there, always there. But I would just say it’s about us, again, going for that performance, having the courage to play the way we want to play and having the bravery to see it through.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDK76FWLLBC43LLM7MNRA7ROUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“My main thing is, win the game. I have been in situations, I remember the [Saracens] game against Castres at the end of the block before we came here. We definitely should have beaten them, our team was stronger, but our mindset was a little bit off. We were probably trying to create a big scoreline before we actually deserved it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ES6HVZG3EFF5NIBD5UL56ADEFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So for me, first and foremost, get the boys right, myself right to win the game and win it well. Hopefully we get to that position, then maybe [points difference] will play a factor in my mind. But first and foremost, win the game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XD5G5HBZZVC3POGADPMIOAXAOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“[The attack] is an area that we want to improve in. But I would say I don’t think our attack is as bad as everyone is saying it is. Obviously we only scored one last week. But I don’t think that’s reflective of an attack that can’t even start the engine. Don’t get me wrong. We want to improve. But I don’t think we’re starting from a bad place.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GIEE26KRWZETDISIND3TGY34QA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Itoje captains England for the fourth time but it will be Jamie George leading the side out to mark his 100th cap on his first start since he was replaced in the role by his Saracens team-mate. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UHVBVKIQRBCQZMJAT22RO4MVGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Itoje was full of praise for the impact George has had on his career, revealing he is saved as “Jamie Under His Wing” in his contacts book – a nod to the mentoring role he provided in his early days at Saracens.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RND63CALJBCDMBQPQOKQDDEO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I don’t know if ‘letting him lead the team out’ is the right phrase, he will lead the team out,” added Itoje. “I’m 30 now, I joined Saracens when I was 18. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have played with him for so long. I’ve definitely become a better player as a result of spending time and playing with Jamie. He’s a great rugby player, he has a great rugby mind, he’s also a great human being as well. He’s great to be around, he’s the man of the people.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHLQTKJI5FGZJHJDS3ISDU6ACE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I haven’t changed what he saved his number as. It’s ‘Jamie Under His Wing’. He put me under his wing, he helped me, gave me words of advice. He also set the standard. Despite his appearance he is an incredibly athletic player, fit, strong. He set a standard to live up to in many ways.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VIIS5IENJRDAVOPSOXTB4233BY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Him being a hooker, me starting as a secondrow and then a lineout-calling secondrow, that is a relationship that we have been building for a number of years now. I think when I got his number he typed it, but it was fitting.” – Guardian","type":"text"},{"_id":"TGKDH6EQX5A65DJGHHHZE3Y3JY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ENGLAND: </b>E<b> </b>Daly; T Freeman, O Lawrence, F Dingwall, O Sleightholme; F Smith, A Mitchell; E Genge, J George, W Stuart; M Itoje (capt), O Chessum; T Curry, B Earl, T Willis. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XLDZHTYFWRECHMEB7KXWV2CX6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements</b><i>:</i> L Cowan-Dickie, F Baxter, J Heyes, T Hill, C Cunningham-South, B Curry, J van Poortvliet, M Smith.","type":"text"},{"_id":"53KMM7G23RACRBODOJB5J3YTR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ITALY:</b> A Capuozzo; M Ioane, JI Brex, T Menoncello, M Gallagher; P Garbisi, S Varney; D Fischetti, G Nicotera, M Riccioni; N Cannone, F Ruzza; S Negri, M Lamaro (capt), R Vintcent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQDPSMZHWJDFBP2PV2XMWRYWYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> G Lucchesi, M Spagnolo, S Ferrari, R Favretto, M Zuliani, L Cannone, M Page-Relo, T Allan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GG5KLE7FHZAK3G5MSVOUBIZSHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> A Brace (Ireland).","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOIVYG47X5CFZF7JCH357UB22E","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gerard Meagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"England’s slim hope of winning Six Nations depend on Ireland losing to France"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T18:50:56.246Z","headlines":{"basic":"Maro Itoje urges England to prioritise victory over big points haul against Italy","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HG4DBYCD4RLHOVZFK7VGGJEV6Y","auth":{"1":"d20056d5fc03189951ffe4300a092dad4f3ea39f644173cbcbac8ba4421d7a20"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HG4DBYCD4RLHOVZFK7VGGJEV6Y.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/maro-itoje-urges-england-to-prioritise-victory-over-big-points-haul-against-italy/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"VSRS5L32GFAXZOYRG5O5YADIKA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":214,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/e0cd972b-cbae-4e49-a393-83c71b95a071/versions/1741359023/media/be082b9ed570a35bbb65773b5eebf3eb_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/07/tweaks-by-frc-to-rules-are-minimalist-but-likely-to-have-a-major-impact/","content_elements":[{"_id":"N3J6T2CPNJBNZJG5KUXFA3HHAE","additional_properties":{"_id":1652360907181},"content":"The minimalist nature of the FRC tweaks didn’t come as any major surprise. To engage in wholesale change would have cast doubt on the whole enterprise and also an admission that the initial proposals had been significantly flawed. Neither was likely to happen – and rightly, given the broad success of the project to date.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D74YBAJXTJFPFKFR2AYKJHBEIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"One slight surprise is that when Central Council next week - on Monday, brought forward from Thursday - signs off on the proposals, which were approved on Thursday by the GAA’s management committee, it is expected to green-light their introduction for the final two rounds of the league, which will come as a relief for managers preparing for the championship, which is now just weeks away.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NJI7YOC4FHIBGODCOLJ74FWOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Changing such a key provision as the 3v3 to 4v3 – teams must now have four players in defence, including the goalkeeper – might appear a major rethink but it’s an effectively simple way to address the two most problematic lessons of the league to date.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ZLZR256E5ECZGN45TDKYFWV2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"The one provision that went badly askew was permitting teams, who had lost players to disciplinary sanction, to restock their outfield numbers by borrowing from their attack so that the 3v3 became 3v2 or 3v1, enabling 11 team-mates to continue to roam the rest of the pitch.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NDSIHHWOWJHDPGFUPC4W7J3K4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ironically, Tyrone manager Malachy O’Rourke, an original member of the FRC, fell foul of it two weeks running in defeats by Mayo and Kerry, both of whom lost players to the sin bin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VZJIXGPXYFA2RLDPY7TYNAPNEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You were thinking that the black card would give us an advantage and it didn’t really,” he stoically observed after losing in Castlebar despite a one-man advantage for 10 minutes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNY6ZDONK5DXFCRRJ4P6ZDAH4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was an obvious issue for remedy, as accepted by FRC chair Jim Gavin during the week on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKKTLKT2NVEARHEHQ2NTSJXACY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We have heard what people have said and we have responded to that. There are adjustments, yeah. We have made some recommendations for some adjustments.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUDTTPFVW5GLROEHFHYZCJ7JUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 4v3 structure will now have to be maintained regardless of how a team is depleted by black or red cards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O436TQK4D7QSYJ4LPY5OIM6YEE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"MUDTTPFVW5GLROEHFHYZCJ7JUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"This change will also address another challenging situation: the concerns that had developed over the 11v12 overload, facilitated by goalkeepers joining their team’s attacks. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"33LSXRZ5WNBZVKOZV4FFPQL3BM","additional_properties":{},"content":"A number of managers had complained that this was unbalancing play, as the attacking side had a numerical advantage. More worryingly, the stubbornly high level of handpassing was partly attributable to goalkeepers providing an additional outlet in attack.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZOAHE5VLW5HXZBKJSHDMOU3GTY","additional_properties":{},"content":"This went contrary to the FRC’s mission statement to rebalance the horizontal direction of play with more vertical attacking because lengthy bouts of handpassing over and across the field were creating a great deal of horizontal play but just switching its location from defence to attack.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RCE6J6LORFRNGTNKDYILLICIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Now, teams will have to have four players back so that when the goalkeeper enters the attacking zone, a team-mate will have to drop back to cover him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKP62BNEVFC7HLKU6NCRW6DSUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Seán Moran: FRC steadies itself before submitting finalised rules for coming championship","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"FQ7YODOKFJFDTGPD7J6NIUZ6DE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Penalties for breaches of the 4v3 structure have also been eased with a provision that inadvertent overstepping the line by a player will be advised rather than penalised as long as it is no farther than four metres beyond the halfway and not impacting on play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AVAEM3DZYVEJ5DMMRR7S3CWOAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Interestingly, according to the GAA Games Intelligence Unit, breaches of the now modified 3v3 reached a peak in round five of the league of 24 – as opposed to an average of 15.5 for the first four rounds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNVFDOLTO5FORCHTID7XB2LAE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"There had also arisen aesthetic concerns about the requirement for kick-outs to travel outside the 40-metre arc, which fulfilled the hoped-for wish for more contests but also led to scrappy play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVLYT2FXWRCY7MMUR4P5YHQ2UA","additional_properties":{},"content":"To address this, any player taking a mark will be able to play on without challenge for four metres, as is the rule governing the solo-and-go facility when frees are awarded.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6OMTMKMUN5CT7HVGVLHJUJVN7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finally, it has also been proposed that recommendations from the CCCC on the ending of matches be adopted so that when the hooter sounds at the conclusion of a match, the ball must go dead or frees, penalties and 45s already awarded must be taken before the final whistle is sounded.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5DS3GBQ4P5CSNM5KLL3ESTGLZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"KCSK44HRJ5H3BPOCA654XDNH74","additional_properties":{},"content":" ","type":"text"},{"_id":"57ZDLVED6ZHZPATHOHSWKBKJGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Seán Moran"}},"name":"Seán Moran"}]},"description":{"basic":"New 4v3 structure will address thorny issue of roaming goalkeepers creating overloads in attack"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T18:16:10.691Z","headlines":{"basic":"Tweaks by FRC to rules are minimalist, but likely to have a major impact","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"Z2SPSNALYZHQBFZX3KT5CX562I","auth":{"1":"3ce0e7bcd705ae8a2ba2403e86db34ef6259a922fcca5bd86a9dc20d5b9db56c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/Z2SPSNALYZHQBFZX3KT5CX562I.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/07/tweaks-by-frc-to-rules-are-minimalist-but-likely-to-have-a-major-impact/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"CGY6KHER6BGVHMP4NDIYRC7PCY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":506,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/06165a67-a3ac-4e60-aacd-100b19dc48d5/versions/1741371429/media/48f5c19fefd65c806c018772f872ce09_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/dangerous-heat-is-a-real-threat-for-the-2026-world-cup-are-teams-ready/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HFDFPBBUUVFNXKVKCK64SS4DKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Over the course of a playing career that wound through Spain, Mexico and the sun-baked fields of Major League Soccer’s summers, American midfielder Tab Ramos was never hotter than at the 1994 <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/world-cup\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/world-cup\">World Cup</a> in the United States.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S25ECR76KRCBNJ3ZPJTNQ7TRYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The day before the United States opened its tournament against Switzerland in the Pontiac Silverdome, it had been 37 degrees in Michigan. By the 11.30am kick-off on matchday, the temperature reached 32 degrees again. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"M45KSJ3G2NFZTP3NZ5IVC7DERQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Worse still, the Silverdome was an NFL stadium designed for winter – to keep heat in, rather than out. The first World Cup match played indoors was conducted in a dome without air conditioning. On the field, the temperature reached 41 degrees. The grass laid over the artificial turf had been watered so eagerly that, with the sun beating down on the stadium’s fabric roof, the air turned soupy with humidity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WGGIQVTSNJA7XCVKV25KKD63PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We were boiling in there,” Ramos says. “They were carrying people out from the upper deck; fans were passing out.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"VGFIAW7JGNDUBMPW2OB4OHPBQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The heat was one of the players’ biggest gripes all the way through to the final between Brazil and Italy in Pasadena, California, where it was 38 degrees at kick-off. Fifa was unsympathetic. “Journalists predicted players would die [in Mexico],” a spokesman told the LA Times, pointing to the lack of casualties from the 1986 edition, where it was also hot and the air thin and smoggy, as some kind of perverse validation. “We encourage them to drink water.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAILYNLALNBSTCXP6KWLQHUZ4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"More than three decades on, with the World Cup returning to the United States along with co-hosts Mexico and Canada, the story may be much the same.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7UMNYRYDGNHK5KRBTSNHIXGCKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fourteen of the 16 host cities for next summer’s biggest-ever, 48-team, 104-match World Cup are predicted to see afternoon temperatures high enough to endanger the players. So says a study of the 20-year meteorological record published in The International Journal of Biometeorology in January, which urges organisers to avoid afternoon kick-offs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VXR5BDWG5ZD2PJBWQB5XKVPBF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nine of the venues will probably experience a wet bulb globe temperature – a measure that combines the effects of the air temperature, humidity, solar radiation and wind speed – above the safety threshold of 28 degrees on more than half the afternoons of hot summers. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XN4XMNRJP5EYVGNRRHEHKHSIZE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"RWJYTTATCRA6NE2X5VLUXY4TKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The risks will be highest in half a dozen cities with open-air stadiums: East Rutherford, Foxboro, Kansas City, Miami, Monterrey and Philadelphia. (An earlier study, published in October, made a similar prediction, forecasting “very high risk of experiencing severe heat stress conditions” in 10 of 16 venues.)","type":"text"},{"_id":"6Z2ZWELWXBFNNCCBESPDCCE2QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The threat of extreme heat will be bigger at this World Cup than it was [at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar],” says Dr Donal Mullan, a climate scientist at Queen’s University in Belfast and the lead author of the most recent study. “Some of these venues are kind of a disaster waiting to happen.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LJT6ZB7TWFGSNIYYS45HLI7BBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was moved from the scorching summer months to November and December to protect the players. The highest wet bulb temperature – which is slightly different from wet bulb globe temperature – recorded during the World Cup in Qatar was 23 degrees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5X5UBUBWBNC27GUOY3GBTIEITM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fifa and US Soccer recommend that games implement cooling and hydration breaks when the WBGT exceeds 32 degrees. More cautious governing bodies, like the Australian federation, set a WBGT limit of 28 degrees before matches can be delayed or even postponed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4CQP5NWN3ZBEJPF2OWSVDK7LBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, temperatures below those guidelines can still be dangerous. During the 2024 Copa América, held in the United States, an assistant referee collapsed from heat stress during a match in Kansas City when the WBGT was a mere 27½ degrees. A few days earlier, defender Ronald Araujo had to be substituted out of Uruguay’s opening game with Panama in Miami due to dehydration.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RMQ65ZWCL5FSPATHD4X3NOJG2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"When WBGT reaches around 30 degrees, the body’s physiological frailties are exposed. “The weakest link in the chain is going to break first and the heat will bring that about quickly,” says Dr Robert Huggins, a kinesiology professor at the University of Connecticut who worked with the US women’s national team and the Portuguese men’s team to prepare them to play in major tournaments in high heat. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJZDWSSSJRF3FBAX3T3LM6K62M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“From a thermoregulation perspective, the hotter the ambient temperature and the higher the humidity, the worse our body can dissipate the heat. If my sweat cannot evaporate off the surface of my skin and be accepted by the environment, I will not be able to physically cool my body.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RG3A3VWFHVDONDF5N7PLPYWSKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kick-off times have not been announced for the 2026 World Cup yet, and Fifa did not respond to an email asking whether it would consider player safety in scheduling games and avoid afternoon kick-offs at its hottest venues.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F264TO6X7RF7XBJ6SVFCRC3LBU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"Q2JPSLMQLVDBXNYWVVB2PV3Q2A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That’s the obvious answer, schedule it outside of these [afternoon] kick-off times,” says Mullan. “If you avoid those afternoon hours between 12 and 6pm, that would make an enormous difference.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQ4O24YAHBBPDOG5SX7VRF5Z2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The tournament’s expanded format will make that difficult. For most of the first two rounds of the group stage, there will be four matches a day. During the last round of group stage matches, there will be six games a day. The round of 32 has five days with three scheduled matches. To maximise TV viewership around the world, a good number of those matches will probably have to be played in the afternoon heat.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7AYN4BIRYZCE7IOD7CG4AW2BNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The study Mullan authored was based on the summer temperatures from 2003 through 2022, which is to say, Mullan points out, that it represents a conservative estimate that did not incorporate the record heat in the summers of 2023 and 2024. Nor, for that matter, does it account for the possibility of wildfire smoke.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6XK2YB2BBFF3ICFNRIZYE4VZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fifpro, the trade union of professional soccer players, has urged Fifa to lower the WBGT temperatures at which cooling breaks are mandated to 26 degrees and set a limit at which games are to be delayed or postponed at 28 degrees. Yet even those measures may not be enough in the eyes of some experts. A paper co-authored by Fifpro’s chief medical officer, Vincent Gouttebarge, questions whether a single cooling break per half is sufficient.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L7MLC43HPJFSBKD6KJK7SW2L7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"And lowering the threshold at which cooling breaks or delays and postponements kick in may not be enough to protect players and match officials. Dr Glen Kenny, a professor of human and environmental physiology at the University of Ottawa and a world-renowned expert on the links between exercise and heat strain, warns that WBGT limits may prove insufficient to protect players and officials. Because there are, he argues, still too many loose variables that portend risk – like the number of games and training sessions a player has completed in the previous days, and at what temperature.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y4PT45ZQLJGHBMV6FGM47AM5YE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I get the idea that we want to be protective,” says Kenny. “You’re trying to come up with a threshold that is all-encompassing, essentially protect everybody – one size fits all. But there will be other factors that may come into play here that are essentially going to limit that person’s ability to thermoregulate.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"WAP6OLPZWJDITASXIB7ZZ3VW6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"After studying the effects of heat strain for decades, Kenny says that it remains difficult to predict how individuals will cope working in dangerously hot conditions, especially if the exposure is sustained over a longer period. Someone playing or practising in the heat for a 14th consecutive day, he argues, will respond differently than they did on the first day. “Even if they hydrate adequately, you will see that the next day the vast majority of them are going to be dehydrated,” Kenny says. “That in itself degrades their capacity to lose heat. So that same threshold may not be relevant on day 14.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LL7JWGGC5BDKDOSVJWONANQSTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"If there was a silver lining to the chaos sowed by pushing the Qatar World Cup to the fall, in the middle of the European club season, it was that players were not yet exhausted by the cumulative strain of a season that runs 10 months or longer. That won’t be the case in 2026.","type":"text"},{"_id":"THQ2OB5SLZDXFCK4JWHZJUUMY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If you think of the timing of the World Cup, June and July, it comes at the end of a very challenging season for a lot of the players, playing 50, 55 domestic and continental games,” says Mullan. “A lot of these players are at massive risk as it is.” – Guardian","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKHYXQDLAZE63DLRDV76Z46F5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Leander Schaerlaeckens is at work on a book about the United States men’s national soccer team, out in 2026. He teaches at Marist College.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Leander Schaerlaeckens"}]},"description":{"basic":"Experts warn that cooling breaks and later kick-off times may be needed to cope with scorching temperatures"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T18:10:37.877Z","headlines":{"basic":"Dangerous heat is a real threat for the 2026 World Cup. Are teams ready? ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"CXFAYF3IIJEIPMVAKDJJE54OLE","auth":{"1":"13d3018bace69e3825eb7dde34e701da251466c03f3d3d957b8a4eb35763596b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CXFAYF3IIJEIPMVAKDJJE54OLE.jpg"}},"subtype":"feature","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/dangerous-heat-is-a-real-threat-for-the-2026-world-cup-are-teams-ready/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"UBKKZBHY6ZHRRANK3V5JHSZ6NQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":208,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/326fb832-5501-4872-928d-60a456d57e95/versions/1741370613/media/bbc43cc5ffe459a91d0d3458d748a857_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/gerry-thornley-rugby-must-put-an-end-to-forward-laden-benches/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"More often than not, the forwards provide the grunt in the physical exchanges and the backs provide the finesse, but backline replacements are becoming an endangered species with more and more coaches opting for 6-2 and even 7-1 splits. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5G65OOQIU5DK3A5GNEL74QK5DU","additional_properties":{},"content":"A fortnight ago, in round three, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\">Ireland</a> were the only squad in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\">Six Nations</a> to opt for what was once considered a conventional split of five forwards and three backs, while <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\">France</a> first trialled their 7-1 split for their 73-24 win in Rome. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"REMGU6BBTZCYHAM3GOXM3NOYU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"This meant that of the 48 replacements across the three matches, 36 were forwards and just 12 were backs. Added to the starting XVs, round three featured 84 forwards to 54 backs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"37AKN256M5DP7HD4PV5TUYPMRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"This weekend is only fractionally better as Ireland have opted to meet the French 7-1 split with a 6-2 configuration, as have England and Italy for their clash in Twickenham on Sunday, while Scotland and Wales have both opted for 5-3 splits.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWQ3QKDEVJECDE33Y2APHY2RTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hence, there are 35 forwards compared to 13 backs on the six benches; the combined match-day squads contain 83 forwards to 55 backs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"N66EPKZSSNE67HIFDC3WJCIDIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wheeling out battalions of forwards is a bad look for the sport on many levels, not least as so many gargantuan forwards are thus crashing into tiring opponents, which must heighten the risk of concussion. With more and more uses of 6-2 and 7-1 splits, there is invariably a heightened emphasis on scrummaging and brutal physicality. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JQI6YTKQDBH2FAWWTPR2JF46EA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the 2019 World Cup, Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus named six forwards and two backs on his bench for the knockout matches, including their 32-12 victory over England in the final, a tactic which earned the ‘Bomb Squad’ moniker.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KP2KSGXAANGOVPE26YXIFPDWIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"53KJFLCFZ5HZBLAJSTPJZLURSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"One can understand the rationale behind a 6-2 split, and it’s not the coaches fault that they are allowed to do this. But this unwanted blight on the game is also filtering down from the Test arena as well. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CLLXXS7JBNHKFAS2FVKYU3C7JY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In these pages and in his guise as a studio pundit with Virgin Media, the former Waratahs, Leinster, Ulster and Scotland coach Matt Williams has described the tactic as being “against the spirit of the game”, and has also claimed it is an “abuse of safety laws”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EDNJA5D33ZEL3OU7NWH4FY2LOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Similarly, current Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend reportedly aired concerns about the growing use of forward-heavy benches at a World Rugby meeting recently. He suggested the Bomb Squad tactic – which effectively allows teams to replace almost their entire forward pack – is not in the spirit or best interests of the sport.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FM37O5ROTZASFJ7NOQDLIMZNTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 6-2 and especially 7-1 splits give coaches little wiggle room and come with risks if there is an early injury among the starting backs. Ironically, when Townsend plumped for a 6-2 split in round two against Ireland, he had to use both backline replacements when Darcy Graham and Finn Russell clashed heads, forcing them both off for the remainder of the game at Murrayfield. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YYD65R5NWZGHBKFBIRLR5KIJYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The tactic is also discriminatory against backs. The more it filters down the fewer opportunities there will be for young backs, and with less elbow room, coaches will loathe to introduce one or two backs too early in a game. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TFU5WU3Z6FG45IHGKLOASUXAGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Certainly 7-1 splits, whatever about 6-2, are not what replacement benches were originally designed to achieve. It is a bad look for the sport and it is World Rugby’s duty to step in and outlaw the tactic by insisting the bench is made up of three frontrow forwards, two other forwards and three backs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LAPAR2RHW5ED3JPI3EHDNYKFWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"This would simply serve to make the game both safer and better balanced.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gerry Thornley"}},"name":"Gerry Thornley"}]},"description":{"basic":"For this weekend’s Six Nations fixtures, there will be 35 replacement forwards to just 13 backs"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T17:42:06.125Z","headlines":{"basic":"Gerry Thornley: Rugby must put an end to forward-laden benches","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"The Counter Ruck"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"C3N53WQXYFBSPDDPIFRNPK66NQ","auth":{"1":"d348d7b7e62c30220c7644a1bacd4340c833eff2f1653c2ef813de56afb726cf"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/C3N53WQXYFBSPDDPIFRNPK66NQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"editors-note","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/gerry-thornley-rugby-must-put-an-end-to-forward-laden-benches/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"YC5ICJNQ3ZDVXMOWCEFCVKSHKE","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/ireland-france-rugby-six-nations-live-updates-teams-predictions-time-info/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5P576M4HLZDHDASTRSKSSVNEB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Key Reads</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"DBZIYMEAFBCUFE5IIJVEOP57F4","type":"list"},{"_id":"4LT5DB4UEJDDHHS7TBIOD24EDQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741339200000},"id":"timestamp-69882","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2THW33PM5RCJLGPLPB7BMRIUHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Welcome to our live story building up to Saturday’s highly-anticipated <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\">Six Nations</a> game between <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\">Ireland </a>and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\">France</a> in the Aviva Stadium. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDVI4RN7ERAGRJ47K4CNOGPZYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"How big is this game? Well, Gerry Thornley called it “Le Nouveau Crunch” during the week, so that should give you a fair indication. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ULVZE3PDK5HKDGR6GDFGRR5PLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"We will be bringing you all the latest news, injury updates, analysis and predictions from our writers to keep you up to date with all you need to know as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-easterby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-easterby/\">Simon Easterby’s</a> side aim to keep their Grand Slam ambitions on course. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PWCO7GKNHVEYZDW64TD7AMKE4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Key Match Details</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"O44YWJ46XRALHNOEDRFEYZXU3I","type":"list"},{"_id":"LPQUYFNL5NA5ZGBZECDC6NECME","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741342192471},"id":"timestamp-56753","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5YCJMSZH2NBSDOQ7XYKUKTCLVI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"UWL6IPBBKFBWLBQND2NK35HILQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"So, where do we start? How about with the fact that both Ireland and France are driven by little geniuses wearing 9?","type":"text"},{"_id":"WE74RPJZIBELJB72BPYLHHH7IY","additional_properties":{},"content":"How good are they? Let’s let Gerry Thornley <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\">explain that</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTZ6A6BTUVHGVAC3J4YYYSIBUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In any other era, Gibson-Park might be considered the best scrumhalf in the world game. As things stand, Gibson-Park is the favourite to be next summer’s Lions Test number 9. But, in Dupont, he’s up against the best player in the world.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"5SHSHY3Q7BB53CR3SYBG5C7ARQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mouthwatering clash of Dupont and Gibson-Park is one to savour","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ZAKGVFU65JBPPHU67DUR6SQHSY","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741343086663},"id":"timestamp-10181","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"UBFQLEHYUNHWPBUIQTH2KE6KPM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BR7LQDVFUFCIBO2AALAMFDTBMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Quite apart from battling with France, we are also quite capable of creating our own internal squabbles as well, as anyone following the debate around the Ireland number 10 jersey will know. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LALQD7WNSRGQPJ5STNBFLV2EVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the moment, the debate around Sam Prendergast and Jack Crowley is divided firmly along blue and red lines. You can probably guess why.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZWCR5QVMNGPBAXOV73SYYEZUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But hang on – if you mix red and blue together, you get green! (Editor’s note: you don’t, you get purple. And a mess.)","type":"text"},{"_id":"I35N4RA7RZFBZBRB4XL3ZGD42Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Anyway, let Johnny Watterson explain the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/perennial-debate-over-ireland-no-10-jersey-set-to-run-and-run/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/perennial-debate-over-ireland-no-10-jersey-set-to-run-and-run/\">whole affair</a>:","type":"text"},{"_id":"NFO6KFHTDBHEZNYBTYU45SRHNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The drift in thinking towards Leinster being the favoured province with an unfair advantage over the others doesn’t have to be true or false for fault lines to begin to show, and for people to take a partisan position on what player should wear the Irish 10 shirt.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y46XCTSBQ5F77G6QG3HX343RG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sam Prendergast and Jack Crowley are at the centre of a rugby culture war","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"7HMLYAKIQBGPRGIKVRN2ZUZZ6U","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741343807877},"id":"timestamp-96825","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CNUXBFQ455FZDSFXLUW55VRWZM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"25ZQFCMCKBHH7BQFHW5E724A4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finlay Bealham has been pondering his growing role in the Ireland team. When he lines up against France at the Aviva it will be his 50th outing in Ireland green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SLHRGOV4HRGPLLBKS65NQWCRMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Even he seems slightly surprised by this <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/its-class-being-part-of-driving-the-bus-finlay-bealham-on-growing-with-ireland-and-facing-france/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/its-class-being-part-of-driving-the-bus-finlay-bealham-on-growing-with-ireland-and-facing-france/\">turn of events</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYVWOTRE4NCGNDT3Y6JXCAI37M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There was probably a time where I was thinking, ‘Jeez, I may only get 10 caps’. You get to 10 and then you’re like, ‘I’ll just try get to 20’, and then fast forward, on the verge of getting 50. Like I said it’s really special to see the calibre of players that have gone and got 50 themselves. To have myself getting 50 is something that I’m truly honoured to do and something I value very much.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EMOPZMYOPJH2NLBMNJAF7MCL3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘It’s class being part of driving the bus’: Finlay Bealham on growing with Ireland and facing France","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"W52EQNHZAFADJPZKTSYMNRIKSU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741345589271},"id":"timestamp-23166","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZSIZGUD7DRDVZMCHU4UYOQPCZQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BE7NL4NQCZHS5CIKUC6C6FK5EE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Who’s the tall teenager with the Beatles haircut and the tracer-like pass?” That is the question that John O’Sullivan poses at the beginning of his feature looking back at the rugby life and times of Cian Healy, Peter O’Mahony and Conor Murray.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F3TQ34MCQRBD7L573ZA2XGAJIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland will be waving goodbye to a lot of experience at the end of this Six Nations campaign when the trio retire, and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/green-giants-healy-omahony-and-murray-set-for-final-home-bow/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/green-giants-healy-omahony-and-murray-set-for-final-home-bow/\">John spoke to</a> some of the people who know them best to get an insight into what makes them tick. And what they are like behind the scenes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3H6KUE2XK5CXFIWLIBJSLJKJ7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve so many memories of the three boys, some of them messy, like when they’d kick the lovely, clean, folded laundry up and down the corridor in Carton House. It used to come back in neat parcels, they, amongst other culprits, would collect their gear, and then kick the rest of it down the corridor.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AONVIIAJONCZRPATPAE6CWNZ7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Green giants Healy, O'Mahony and Murray set for final home bow","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"DFS72UFFD5CHPMDAK4ETADDL6E","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741346868943},"id":"timestamp-2735","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MDD5Q6XQXQL7ER224RPUHQIPZQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"SPDU5QQBWNF6PBUC6NC37ALSXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There are of course two other games on this weekend, as much was we might be obsessing over Ireland v France. The weekend’s fixtures are ...","type":"text"},{"_id":"QQBVNHGQRRBLDAOA73VQALGIHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Saturday, March 8th</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SNGEUHGHPJGWTBCJT2EM53ANRI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland v France</b>, at the Aviva Stadium, 2.15pm, and you can follow the action on RTÉ and The Irish Times blog.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MG7MVCCKHJDMVB32GPWDOAN2ME","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Scotland v Wales</b>, in Murrayfield, 4.45pm (live on Virgin Media, BBC).","type":"text"},{"_id":"EGEUNJFY7VFT5FEHMDL3WID4PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Sunday, March 9th</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCUOYA5PRZDB5BB3BKQU6S2SXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>England v Italy,</b> Twickenham, 3pm (live on RTÉ, ITV).","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWBVLIO7PBDG3D5KEOMPQEJ6D4","additional_properties":{},"content":"You might have spotted the kicking difficulties suffered by Scotland outhalf Finn Russell the last day out in Twickenham. Interestingly Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has said that Russell will continue with the kicking duties in Saturday’s game against Wales.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7YKOXC6GOBEFHIUEONQENM25S4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Russell missed kicks at Twickenham that would have given his side victory over England two weeks ago. Scotland’s co-captain was off target with all three conversion attempts against England and his last miss in the final minute allowed the hosts to squeeze home 16-15.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BB4HLHVIZFCBTHZB4SDALM3DIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think they were tough conversions. One of them he would have thought wasn’t as tough but his last one was very tough. With about 20 seconds to go, he got asked to move it further to the touchline,” Townsend said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BGHXLYK6YVHLLELSXNQL37LV7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland had raised the intervention of referee Pierre Brousset in a review with World Rugby, feeling Russell was asked to kick from two metres wider than where Duhan van der Merwe grounded the try.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UNNGOFNWLNA6VHBYCOVXPN2DKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The scoreline won’t change,” added Townsend. “It doesn’t really make it even less or more frustrating.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHATMA3UP5CMBATZC3HE6JEJLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Russell has spent much of this week practising his kicking ahead of Saturday’s game at Murrayfield, added the coach.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43TFILDLNFBGXI7KYWRTL3ZFWA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Finn is an excellent kicker. Last year he was the best kicker in the championship and I’m sure by the end of the Six Nations his stats will be back up there with what he normally produces and has delivered for Scotland over the years,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ONBKBJRFCNGGLGRUMCTTSZQMR4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741348636373},"id":"timestamp-40447","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"V3LENYTIVBHFZLASGENTSUPV2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ah, the good old days. When rugby shirts fluttered in the breeze.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DWDITG2WNRAH3NRQTMEBCD4SQM","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"GW3LR5XGVJBPZPXT5U2QKOWTUA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741348836438},"id":"timestamp-56269","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BDI3HT63RFEZJCVKAEY7PFFLAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Although, we have registered some pretty impressive scores against France ourselves. More recent too...","type":"text"},{"_id":"PM6QQF27Y5D2PLYXVB3BFWKVFU","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"Y4XXSFZCNZFZBHWA7YJQ7BGHEY","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741350803835},"id":"timestamp-92474","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"YCG6YVTJ7JB4XFYUZR46SSOLFY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"2J6XCMHXOZEXDJWS7LL2C6I4PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"France and Ireland has developed into a real rivalry in recent years, with the excitement matching the quality on show. Gerry Thornley though is peeved that this game is being staged off-Broadway, as the first game of the 6N weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZO4FOVRHLJF6PFZV5KFVYEDSW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“By rights, this fixture should be the night-time finale to Super Saturday or at least in the early evening slot next Saturday,” <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/04/le-nouveau-crunch-ireland-v-france-is-a-rivalry-for-the-ages/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/04/le-nouveau-crunch-ireland-v-france-is-a-rivalry-for-the-ages/\">he opines</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3L5PM4GKGZGPRBFMO5YC3AMQB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"And look, we are not arguing with him, not this weekend anyway. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEQRZVIV5ZE2ZCQVFMKW32KGZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s hard to imagine there’s ever been a European rivalry quite like this one, and it assuredly can’t last much longer. So, we should enjoy it while we have it. Welcome to ‘Le Nouveau Crunch’”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPUP6GLEIZAB5EDJKJFGM26OJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"France and Ireland is a rivalry for the ages","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HYRSOKJSD5GLJNFCCICRTW3W4M","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741352520000},"id":"timestamp-92318","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"GEKSN3OX6CKRCSRLDNOILY52L4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"CRZJECSXNBEHTESJ6WYRW3K4OQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rugby columnist Matt Williams is very excited about the game at the Aviva this weekend. He sees it as an “experiment in Darwinian evolution” − which makes him think about the risks you take while driving onto a roundabout in France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"54J4QIPSR5HX7E5BKEOP2DYV5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Take those same survival laws and put them into your match plan to prepare for the French at the Aviva,” he says. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/matt-williams-france-have-the-power-and-unpredictability-to-put-ireland-in-a-spin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/matt-williams-france-have-the-power-and-unpredictability-to-put-ireland-in-a-spin/\">Suffice to say that he thinks Ireland have their work cut out for them</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7MWD5SY7NBJFC73ZJODIOCP5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"He dives in to crunch some numbers and comes up with a worrying conclusion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PM4YF3N57VAKHLRD4NMSWSBHLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The reality is that the foundation for stopping Ireland’s game plan rests in disrupting their possession from set play and giving away a minimum number of penalties. To create chaos in the Irish defence, opposition attacks must produce offloads. New Zealand played this game last November. The stats suggest France are highly capable of repeating New Zealand’s success.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"SRRDQDINPRBXXLIXZHHZ3TBHLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Matt Williams: France have power and unpredictability to put Ireland in a spin","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"EIHWOAFVABABPCWJ3VW6TBZLXY","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741355883427},"id":"timestamp-86886","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3S5525PBIJCS3BUBX3D4Y5BNFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For the third time in as many years, it looks that the winner of Ireland’s clash with France will go on to win the Six Nations. Who, then, are the favourites for Saturday’s clash in Dublin and why?","type":"text"},{"_id":"YW3PMXQC6NEDDB7UHOQ43QABCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irish Times rugby correspondent Gerry Thornley joins Nathan Johns to preview the clash on <b>The Counter Ruck podcast</b>. What does Ireland’s selection of Jamie Osborne as Mack Hansen’s injury replacement tell us of the impending game plan? Will Ireland continue to be a kick-heavy team? What to make of France’s attack scoring a plethora of tries so far in this competition?","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2AMFIHCTBFUPM4K4QNEO2UUGQ","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-87947","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4O5WIZSZZJF23BD2MRKZGLHRSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Counter-Ruck podcast: Why Ireland v France is the best rivalry in the Six Nations","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"RBIVC6XNVZBHVHZARUUTGH3BCA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741357680000},"id":"timestamp-36094","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"TUIWYUA22JG3TPYJLOAAMZHYSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Now, let’s take a quick look behind enemy lines.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7K5BW7NNA5CQNIIJA6ANFWGKOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"France head coach Fabien Galthié had many a kind word to say about Ireland after announcing his team on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A3UVDAGRJBBUBDSXHFZC3LUI4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This match has special stakes, we know that and that’s what we want. What’s more, it’s a match against the best European nation in the last three or four years. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TQYDASOTG5GQ7KC4WT5V2BIJ6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They’re a very high-level team, one of the two best nations in the world, if not the best, and they’re playing at home. It’s true that the challenge is immense. And taking on a huge challenge is what we’re looking for.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"7Y6QBJKPYRDPPH3UDXORCF4LEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Oh Fabien, you flatter us.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHSSPH6Y62V5K6DQ5I3ARXIADY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"MUJE4ZGS2BCX5KKN22AP5FGWCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On his own team, Galthié spoke briefly on the return of Romain Ntamack at outhalf – the Toulouse kicker having served a suspension following a red card in France’s opening round fixture against Wales – and that 7-1 bench split.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NS7GJESV7BGEJMHA3FWCGCLJZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“(Ntamack) has been training with us throughout the tournament. He’s part of the team dynamic,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGSUQ2QHAVGX5CHQVWAF36EJXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The choice of a 7-1 bench is linked to the profiles of the most competitive players we currently have in the French team. Looking at the performances we’ve had for a while now, that’s what we think is the best way to perform.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2Z5IPEFRZGYHD3U5WKI254K3Y","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741359240000},"id":"timestamp-86814","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"XLMEG5D7Z5C3VNUIS2E3YHZCMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"To cast a literary eye on proceedings, Saturday will have many plots.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3V3VRK6UJ5GQTFGNHVL7ZSD2BM","additional_properties":{},"content":"A likely championship decider; Grand Slam hopes still alive for Ireland; an Aviva farewell for O’Mahony, Murray and Healy; 50th caps for Caelan Doris, Finlay Bealham and Jack Conan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VL3TUOP3SNBLFLFEEP55RBJ2YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"But that’s not all. Simon Easterby also wants us to keep an eye on the subplots of the game. Pay attention, this will be on the exam.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2HC7BVZJZGYJH5PMYFOYPB534","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If you’ve got two of the best nines playing against each other (Jamison Gibson-Park and Antoine Dupont), you might have two of the best eights at the moment playing against each other, so I think that creates another little subplot,” said Easterby.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IXYHJJMVJVFNDNKGYYTXGYMWZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Alldritt has been a marquee, standout player for them for a number of years. He just does everything really well and he has the ability to ride tackles and create turnovers himself.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BI7ZANF2CZC4PEVT4TGZZ3D7BY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’ve got one of, if not the best number eights in the world ourselves at the moment and there’s very little between those two players.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AQEUMEFRHRFOLJN6TMMM77IM5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“(It’s) a little battle in the game that will go a long way to see who gets on the front foot, who gets momentum and potentially goes on to win the game, those little battles between players like Alldritt and Caelan.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHKCDTEB4PGF7QVVJ4XBSSKGLQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"UBT2HRKZERCJLPD2LED7XCRTAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Is that all? Nope.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WAIUTCAE35BT7EVYNUWHNA7HNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Easterby added: “(France outhalf Romain) Ntamack, physically, he’s probably a lot bigger than people consider when you see him on the TV. He’s actually got a big stature and he has the ability to play the game with his Toulouse team-mate (Dupont) and that sometimes gives them an advantage as a team.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YWN64EKPYVFRLDSJA23MDMGVFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He’s kind of got an all-court game in terms of his kicking, his ability at the line, his ability in his passing game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HR7YIQAOCNDBFLDJOUKD4N3ZSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But we’ve got a couple of pretty special ones there ourselves, in Sam and Jack Crowley.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F6AWKBG6ABCKDOWJHPXPUARDHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So again, probably another subplot and little battle that will go a long way towards the success of either team – how the number 10s that start the game can manage it and how they control the game in the areas of the pitch we play and also the way we play.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"U64ONC6DXJFJFIQFRPKZNSUX3E","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741361100000},"id":"timestamp-98475","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HNHRZN5AHRBKLLOE37TMF75WQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Italy are now joining the party, head coach Gonzalo Quesada announcing his team for Sunday’s game against England at Twickenham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUKJM3GB75ALRPWDS4VIKMR2WA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six changes for the Italians from their thumping at the hands of France last time out, among them winger Monty Ioane who returns from injury.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPW2Z2L5VJDV5N56B7RNVMF3UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Steve Borthwick likes to get out of the starting gates early – he named his team on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LSLMRTVNBJBOZMU6OPQDRWZEWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The England head coach made three changes to the side that took a narrow win over Scotland, Marcus Smith dropping to the bench to make room for Elliot Daly at fullback, Fin Smith staying put at outhalf. And former captain Jamie George returns to the inner circle to earn his 100th cap.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6DREH3C2NH6JBERUJC2A4IYB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ENGLAND:</b> Elliot Daly; Tommy Freeman, Ollie Lawrence, Fraser Dingwall, Ollie Sleightholme; Fin Smith, Alex Mitchell; Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Will Stuart; Maro Itoje (capt), Ollie Chessum; Tom Curry, Ben Earl, Tom Willis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ORPYK3YQV5FJLK4Y6DSPIDYPYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Replacements: Luke Cowan-Dickie, Fin Baxter, Joe Heyes, Ted Hill, Chandler Cunningham-South, Ben Curry, Jack van Poortvliet, Marcus Smith.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DQK7KXZN3FFO7OACGX3YWTUXVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ITALY: </b>Ange Capuozzo; Monty Ioane, Juan Ignacio Brex, Tommaso Menoncello, Matt Gallagher; Paolo Garbisi, Stephen Varney; Danilo Fischetti, Giacomo Nicotera, Marco Riccioni; Niccolo Cannone, Federico Ruzza; Sebastian Negri, Michele Lamaro (capt), Ross Vintcent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NE23WRFEKJECVFTH7MMUPLD5W4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Replacements: Gianmarco Lucchesi, Mirco Spagnolo, Simone Ferrari, Riccardo Favretto, Manuel Zuliani, Lorenzo Cannone, Martin Page-Relo, Tommaso Allan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUFD37734VAK3FAO7WON53C6W4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741362492629},"id":"timestamp-37287","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3VJX3MNVBVAEPAOFVYNOBHJEVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of all the tributes paid to Ireland’s retiring trio, the Six Nations social media team struck a rather morbid tone with this particular piece of cinematography.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7DKFJVGI7RBU3H7MD6LKKROT5Q","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"H2ANLE3CUFHFFPXNIW4XHYXXCU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741364580000},"id":"timestamp-9712","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"SAZ4P4XM3NBCPFCFAK2LQSYEVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In my quest to find nuggets of information to keep you all suitably entertained, I stumbled across a nice coincidence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBGIATRWQJFHTIQEN2KOQPMKLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cian Healy, Peter O’Mahony and Conor Murray will tomorrow (March 8th) play their last home game for Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2NCO4W7DX5FOPA63TFHSCUXOKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"March 8th, 2014, another Irish rugby great made his final bow at the Aviva Stadium – Brian O’Driscoll.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTKCEM2PXRF6NBEI25DWW62KW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Eleven years ago, the day saw Ireland claim a 46-7 victory over Italy on their way to winning the championship.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AC3VAJQ7QZF33FQKTD7LVISJQ4","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"YCRVMVDD2NE5DD5Y7FMEYT54QQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741366560000},"id":"timestamp-42628","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"N4675OMU7ZHVLJJZ2I46BWFDIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last week, Matt Williams implored us to get out and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/02/28/matt-williams-joyous-genius-antoine-dupont-is-the-antidote-to-grim-faced-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/02/28/matt-williams-joyous-genius-antoine-dupont-is-the-antidote-to-grim-faced-rugby/\">see French captain Antoine Dupont in action</a>. “Watch him and wallow in his greatness. In victory or defeat enjoy Dupont’s play, because none of us may ever see his likes again,” he wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TU67GBRISBCPXGFKWYHU54N3YA","additional_properties":{},"content":"This morning, Gerry Thornley added his two cents, teeing up what will undoubtedly be an epic <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\">battle between Dupont and his Ireland scrumhalf counterpart</a> Jamison Gibson-Park. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XN6AHDQEUFDQZG3SEHJYOVW6HI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In any other era, Gibson-Park might be considered the best scrumhalf in the world game. As things stand, Gibson-Park is the favourite to be next summer’s Lions Test 9. But, in Dupont, he’s up against the best player in the world,” GT wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZBOGZX35A5CC7MHSKMUHQNOZDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Well, for Johnny Watterson, seeing is believing. He went along to France’s captain’s run at the Aviva this afternoon. Safe to see, he is in utter agreement with his colleagues.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ICYMFEEAZVYMMF5KM3YNFIBEDM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"YQD77OYIUVEZFJOQ5EEU6TUP4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Several inches short of six feet tall, nine pounds shy of 14 stone, Dupont has much to do to stand tall on a rugby pitch.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BQ67ARV65BYVL4OCZDMRBSHSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Yet here he is out among the bigger, faster and more imposing French players, herding them around the pitch, whipping them from side to side, picking and flicking and then animating for a long pass, but at the last moment cocking his wrists and popping the ball in the air for a runner to come ghosting through from nowhere.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XELD5G37DZFRNAJ5AGQXZASS2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"French captain and talisman Antoine Dupont happy to stay under the radar - for now","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ZCT3625CFREHHBKSDU5A75VBQQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741369980000},"id":"timestamp-41208","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HMSZJ7LLK5F6JFLG6YU4PQZC3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"To see us out, Gerry Thornley’s latest Counter Ruck newsletter has landed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCXW2Z2TD5FFXIWDAZBH56AY4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"\"More often than not, the forwards provide the grunt in the physical exchanges and the backs provide the finesse, but backline replacements are becoming an endangered species with more and more coaches opting for 6-2 and even 7-1 splits‚\" he writes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"446MNMLQEJAP3LFBNA47WIFIFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yes, we’re talking all things replacements this week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKO5TM77YFH2TNZGX4WB2MBKY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry believes the ‘Bomb Squad’ tactic is a “bad look for the sport” which should be stamped out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LOE2DY3YURHQ5HQTTZZ7VKMJA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"\"This would simply serve to make the game both safer and better balanced,\" he adds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WNL3YDUL7ZEPBHYEBWQOWN3SMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Have a read of the full piece below, and if you’d like to receive the Counter Ruck newsletter direct to your inbox you can sign up at the top of the page.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H3AHDTXJSBH4ZFGL3B5K3RH6CE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley: Rugby must put an end to forward-laden benches","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"JE7QRBUGC5ANDKLLPP25XGOMWE","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741370400000},"id":"timestamp-60510","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CR7O66E2RZAQPNJPZ2NGSKJTRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That’s enough from us for today.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4CUXKEEQFDMJKAPZ27YHYWEJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’ll see you back here for tomorrow’s game. John O’Sullivan’s on live blogging duty so you’re in good hands.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CBQ7JC2P5BM7C7KALCPRO46UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bed early now folks, Saturday’s going to be a big one.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"free"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Muireann Duffy"}},"name":"Muireann Duffy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Team news, expert analysis and everything else you need to know ahead of this weekend’s Six Nations action"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T16:52:21.002Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland v France build-up: Latest Six Nations news ahead of decisive game","native":""},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"3LJIU7VOCHCBA4GI6WKIYEAMSU","auth":{"1":"f292c019ef89791629fe56e19c89c1390ac4c8158a824a3ba685dcd4f7ef84b3"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/3LJIU7VOCHCBA4GI6WKIYEAMSU.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"live-story","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/ireland-france-rugby-six-nations-live-updates-teams-predictions-time-info/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"3ZOR3I2YERGZDM5FJVTGL523PY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":189,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/6739141b-ab1b-459b-a8ad-7ce5077f8b4e/versions/1741364356/media/42cacde5746d88e280adff75e47b9530_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/french-captain-and-talisman-antoine-dupont-happy-to-stay-under-the-radar-for-now/","content_elements":[{"_id":"XHMTY3Y7ENAXXMZ6OFUQCAVNWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the sideline <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\">French</a> coach Fabien Galthié strolls among his players, a pat on the back here, a hand on a shoulder there. Not all the squad are yet out under the low grey sky.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KKBOE3H53RH3HED25BLTBOB4TI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Another string of bodies arrives from under Aviva Stadium’s west stand and then <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont\">Antoine Dupont</a> emerges low key and last from the tunnel ambling past the line of cameras, his chest puffed, a blank expression.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C3K2YTOIWFA6PM4FRTYDQ3SLFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French captain is heavily wrapped, the blue leggings and layers giving him an inflated appearance. Several inches short of six feet tall, nine pounds shy of 14 stone, Dupont has much to do to stand tall on a rugby pitch.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q32ZDMCKWNG7FBTYTXEAGMKTBQ","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-17460","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5FY6X66E2ZEP7MGN7QZA6L7G2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yet here he is out among the bigger, faster and more imposing French players, herding them around the pitch, whipping them from side to side, picking and flicking and then animating for a long pass, but at the last moment cocking his wrists and popping the ball in the air for a runner to come ghosting through from nowhere.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6DXB2JZDKZAQVOZLINYAUKJHDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"With the rain spitting down on his Friday captain’s run, his is the one name that hangs on the lips of Irish rugby fans. Dupont, back again after answering the call of his country, strikes fear more than any French player.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3D5FN6VYVZCSFJGESA5BBMN6SQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a story that might have been scripted in the fiction department of the French Rugby Federation, he skipped last year’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\">Six Nations</a> to answer the nation’s Olympic call. With two tries in the final against Fiji, he all but won France the gold medal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E54XVEXY35DABFENFWRCN4KRCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"But today is more normal than it has been over the past three games for France. Fullback Thomas Ramos wears a number 15 bib, Romain Ntamack, back from his three-week suspension for a dangerous tackle, is in 10 with Dupont cheekily in the outside centre’s number 13.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7WRC7ATNVE65MKUSM32LWFFYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In recent days the squad had former French footballer Theirry Henry into their camp and in a moment of light relief Dupont is asked if they spoke about the handball against France in the 2010 World Cup qualifier.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P5TFNKQ23RAS3DTVOD62YFLAGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There is no link between his visit and the game,” he says. “Most of the time we talk about high performance and high level and how can you deal with the pressure away especially during the important games. I think he has a long experience, and I hope he has inspired us for this weekend. But we didn’t talk a lot about the handball.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"WWY25XXGGRBAJCX5PIEU4OUSBQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Little is being given away and French defence coach Sean Edwards is rowing in with the agreed understanding that Ireland are not easy to beat in Dublin. Feisty and playing to the home gallery Edwards is in a generous mood.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D7JUMCZMMNEGDBWEHDESEGQKO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s the ultimate challenge in the northern hemisphere to come to Dublin and win without a shadow of a doubt,” he says. “I’ve been listening to Thin Lizzy all week and U2, been watching Steve Collins fights from the 90s, so I feel ready.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDDJI22YRBDJ3BWMNOZZX6OBHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dupont echoes the cautiously respectful tone, saying nothing pungent, nothing at least that could be hung in the Irish dressingroom wall.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7IUHJUYFZZHHHGYKKXKQGHKFNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They have a very rigorous system that we know,” he says. “They have won against all the teams in the world. They are doing a very good job. It also pushes us to be at our best level to be able to compete with this kind of team.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7O3N67UMVBSNALDD4YUEC7XWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kindly words from the world number one scrumhalf. That will change on game day.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Johnny Watterson"}},"name":"Johnny Watterson"}]},"description":{"basic":"Dupont plays down Thierry Henry’s visit to French camp in build-up to game against Ireland in Dublin"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T16:14:08.54Z","headlines":{"basic":"French captain and talisman Antoine Dupont happy to stay under the radar - for now ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"3VKLGFVA7FWN3FGKLAWYNEA73Q","auth":{"1":"ad30b49cba68675f35cd4ad20470ed2e372131a7d62f2c51d79efbaef85acba3"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/3VKLGFVA7FWN3FGKLAWYNEA73Q.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/french-captain-and-talisman-antoine-dupont-happy-to-stay-under-the-radar-for-now/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"CXJJTQJNGJDFXNV4DUXMOE7HPQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":168,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/f225b06a-60b0-4f27-a0ea-b96295eeb07c/versions/1741362371/media/85ca726f947a235d02dc80d641bd7fc5_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/millwall-goalkeeper-liam-roberts-has-suspension-extended-to-six-games/","content_elements":[{"_id":"OXVAYQOBRFBELAWZ34DMJ3QPMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has been handed a six-match ban for his challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta which hospitalised the Crystal Palace forward.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AD2CSNFG5NCEVAZAIGXTD3ZTIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Roberts’s high boot caused lacerations to Mateta’s ear after the pair came together to challenge for the ball during last Saturday’s FA Cup fifth-round tie at Selhurst Park.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NSRUJYA66JFXFJVB3OOA53KYUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The English Football Association submitted a claim to have the ban extended from the standard three matches, claiming three games was “clearly insufficient” for the offence, and the governing body confirmed on Friday that an independent regulatory panel had issued a six-match suspension to Roberts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2YN5GHGXJEP3HVYBZSEGP6INA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Lions goalkeeper immediately said he accepted the sanction in a statement on his club’s website.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NM74H2PNU5BXNGR7Y2KM2NG3L4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am devastated by what happened. I unequivocally accept the red card as awarded and accept my punishment,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OOPUVXM675CVLJDW5HWKBQFNJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Furthermore, it has been extremely unpleasant to observe suggestions that I intended to harm a fellow professional. I have categorically never stepped on to a football pitch with the intention of hurting anyone.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJFC6EB7DBDZZDHHPLWQSDTRSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Misleading articles and comments have resulted in an unthinkable amount of abusive messages and threats towards my family and I.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IX73GG3X3VB6PIR5D7BY54ZKCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“To the footballing community who know me and reached out with support through this tough time, thank you, I appreciate every single message.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ATFUTV5D6FGXRMOZFYAG4KZGFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner is optimistic Mateta will recover in time to face Fulham in their FA Cup quarter-final at the end of the month after the French striker required 25 stitches to repair his lacerated left ear.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3UXAJFW5WBDFTJGIFOS3QREESA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glasner, whose side next host Ipswich in the Premier League, told a press conference: “Mateta is doing well. He is at home and his recovery is going well. He had no fractures or concussion. Healing from the huge wound is going as we expected.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ZNCDLEPMBHJHA6ZE6QXJEPLEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He will go to Marbella with us next week and be just training individually. If everything goes how we wish, he will be available versus Fulham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQ7IYAEJWBEPTJXSNB52W2KSUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We lost JP in this game, we can’t play him tomorrow, but it’s not too bad.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3GNDZF3LFFRZDM7BW677E2SRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glasner insisted his players have largely put last weekend’s unsettling incident behind them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7A2PYH3S6JELJFL7MSWSAAIUTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He added: “To be honest, it wasn’t a big topic here in the training ground. The players had two days off [after the Millwall game] and, of course, everybody was in touch with JP and messaging him and I think everybody could see how he is.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BUTVSCMC55A5ZIPMIHA7UTVIP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The evening after the Millwall game, it was announced all’s fine with him and everybody knows he is doing well, and he will be back soon. We started on Tuesday focusing on Ipswich.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AMFK6MKPBRFPTOTOB37NIY4E24","additional_properties":{},"content":"“JP’s mother came over from France and she took care of him, so he’s in the best hands!","type":"text"},{"_id":"ECTS3URTCRAPLB4N7DSXCOEXD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He has great support at home. He will go with us to Marbella and will be in good hands again and he will start training with us.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Crystal Palace hope Jean-Philippe Mateta can return in time for FA Cup quarter-final with Fulham"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T15:41:05.693Z","headlines":{"basic":"Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has suspension extended to six games","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"Q7OS4N54UAJSF4LVQVXXSF4ZWY","auth":{"1":"bc7b7c16ada18d8140ddf58434e27303fa425d53d3d5dc27f3a0bf6b8dcb4cde"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/Q7OS4N54UAJSF4LVQVXXSF4ZWY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/millwall-goalkeeper-liam-roberts-has-suspension-extended-to-six-games/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"56GVQQPZ2FFFTPTE6IMR2KAZYA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":277,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/a25ed68b-9e12-4b05-a5df-63ba50d1cb4c/versions/1741361031/media/5f1bceb54f8174ac869e31a28553a373_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/07/willie-mullins-just-9-4-to-train-more-winners-than-whole-british-team-at-cheltenham/","content_elements":[{"_id":"AXVXNFLXAFCZPCBTM3II46DIPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins\">Willie Mullins</a> is readying a team of up to 80 horses for next week’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival\">Cheltenham Festival</a> and the record-breaking trainer is just 9-4 to outscore Britain on his own.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U3S2VJQC6NBBPAZSWOINCBDSEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cross-channel eyes can be forgiven for looking anxiously across the water at the waves of Mullins runners about to hit Prestbury Park ahead of the biggest week of the racing year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YUS64R72EVBAHKOKNKRUY2Q6B4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mullins’s 2024 haul of nine winners equalled the whole home tally and Boylesports go jut 9-4 about the Irishman trumping them this time. He had a record 10 winners in 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GXIS7OWNFVE5VMKEE4EMKWBXOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"That firm reckons Mullins has 13 favourites for the 28 races up for grabs next week, including Galopin Des Champs, who is odds-on to complete a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-gold-cup\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-gold-cup\">Cheltenham Gold Cup</a> hat-trick.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ERCBUOZR65G5RAKZCRSYUCCI6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mullins wasn’t represented in just one festival contest a year ago and saddled 73 runners in all. It included a massive eight-strong team in the Weathebys Champion Bumper when Jasmin De Vaux notched a landmark 100th festival success. Mullins has 103 festival winners in all.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AWERWW2RFFGRDKPNAHAHTQJFHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ante-post punters are still trying to tease out Mullins’s likely plans for star mare Lossiemouth who has day one options in both the Champion Hurdle and the Mares' Hurdle. Final declarations for Tuesday are on Sunday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RMUVLAWTNZAERFSNH2FGXDTEMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mullins’s chaser Fact To File hardened to 6-4 favourite for the Ryanair after featuring among a dozen acceptors for the race at Friday’s latest acceptance stage. Fact To File’s alternative is to try his luck against Galopin Des Champs again in the Gold Cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ELXPEURMXZFZZLNZSODJLF6DLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A notable absentee from the Ryanair is Jimmy Mangan’s Spillane’s Tower, and as expected Banbridge’s connections have opted to go down the Gold Cup route. The Mullins team have left both Gaelic Warrior and the former two-mile Champion Chase winer Eneregumene in the mix.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEC2KPQEW5BQREL2FGY3TXY22I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Teahupoo is a warm favourite to retain his Stayers' Hurdle crown, although up to 19 potential opponents could take him on next week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2SVIX2TOT5C2HLKZMDRZ7KZL6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ground conditions at Cheltenham are largely good to soft after selective watering began at the track on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S5EFEGFOTNDD7HWHENP3A5NOIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Mainly yesterday was on the New Course, a little bit on the Old, but mainly on the New, and we’ll continue to monitor conditions and irrigate accordingly,” clerk of the course Jon Pullin reported.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQMBQFWMOGFT7XD6UKLONDFVTM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"KSU7V66HNVAZXCDFRTU3PFTMTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’re largely good to soft. There are one or two areas now that would be on the quicker side of that, so nearer good ground, and there the areas in the next few hours where we’ll have irrigated and hopefully got us back to that good to soft position.","type":"text"},{"_id":"76PQ72SQFBHCNFSXWYSGFTLKFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Good to soft is where we would like to start, that’s been the position here at the festival now for a number of years, to start a four-day festival on anything quicker comes with its challenges, so we’d like to start on good to soft ground,” he added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYR7CP2QYJFN5ODYE5J3YSYKOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A warm weekend weather outlook means watering is set to continue ahead of a largely dry forecast for the week ahead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BZMD7OPFJRHJ3APIPQ2KXCMOL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“What we wouldn’t want it to do is go any quicker than good ground, so we’d need to be mindful of that. But looking at the forecast I don’t see that being an issue. We’ve got a very warm weekend coming with temperatures around 16 and 17 degrees on Saturday and Sunday with lots of bright sunshine,” Pullin said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KU5TQRE7XBCEXKFPBTZHJ3TD4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But then it does turn a lot cooler next week and daytime temperatures through the week are seven, eight degrees in the main and we’re now looking at some overnight frosts as well,” Pullin said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVQMVZV4XJDVDOTEK64XYJTC24","additional_properties":{},"content":"Before all that Mullins has 10 runners left over for this weekend’s action and Batman Girac will do a cross-channel recce on Saturday in Sandown’s Betfair Imperial Cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JALP4QINFZERRK7RYXUFKQC6JQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The sponsors are offering a £100,000 bonus (about €120,000) to the winner of Saturday’s contest going on to win any race at Cheltenham. Batman Girac holds a County Hurdle entry at the festival. JJ Slevin takes the mount on the sole Irish challenger.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKNKSCEKZ5GMLC6XCOIZA4BSPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Significantly, Mullins’s No 1 jockey Paul Townend has a single weekend ride, the former top-class bumper performer Redemption Day in Sunday’s Naas opener.","type":"text"},{"_id":"57ESKSOKJBBPDJIJ2JKY2KV43E","additional_properties":{},"content":"It leaves Danny Mullins to take over on the Royal Ascot winner Belloccio who goes in the Grade Three Bar One Kingsfurze Hurdle and the Beginners' Chase candidate Olympic Man.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPYTNJ5Q35CLNDTRAX7Q7ZGD5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Included in the Kingsfurze is one horse swimming against the cross-channel tide as Olly Murphy’s Pleasington tries his luck in Ireland. Keith Donoghue teams up with the raider who has won his last two starts at Leicester and Lingfield.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M64C3QCALBBC7B4RLBHOEKHYQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sunday’s feature is the €100,000 Leinster National where the last two winners, Hartur D’arc and Espanito Bello, try to win the race again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUKF2V57MBDXJHXMVXHNDSVYSY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fans of Bambino Fever’s festival bumper chance will also be hoping Switch From Diesel delivers a form boost in the finale. She was runner-up in the Grade Two bumper at the Dublin Racing Festival.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"Record-breaking trainer could have up to 80 runners over the four days topped by Gold Cup favourite Galopin Des Champs "},"display_date":"2025-03-07T15:18:43.742Z","headlines":{"basic":"Willie Mullins just 9-4 to train more winners than whole British team at Cheltenham","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"V2GL4JASRBEYBBIQV4ZQA2ETHY","auth":{"1":"5fa1fa45793a7985ed2879c43da349cc75e27b55a299dcf4bcd77fed41d549aa"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/V2GL4JASRBEYBBIQV4ZQA2ETHY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/07/willie-mullins-just-9-4-to-train-more-winners-than-whole-british-team-at-cheltenham/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"OOE5WDGJR5GX5P3JE7ZZ2F4N2E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":326,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f35292c3-d75e-4bfc-aa32-2727468f384e/versions/1741353091/media/267488489aa4c951c2d6ffeb31c07db7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/irish-women-have-real-medal-winning-potential-at-european-indoor-championships-this-weekend/","content_elements":[{"_id":"2K54ADHDUBDMJO7U5IPPNIB3NA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There has been a notable shift and resurgence in the expectations of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\">Irish</a> <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/athletics/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/athletics/\">athletes</a> competing on the international stage. They are no longer travelling in hope, and more in the expectation and belief that they certainly belong in finals, and, given the right opportunity, can deliver a medal-winning performance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"STWOZEEOQVCGBDHV2XKOXHTSSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is also timely and fitting that as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/international-women-s-day/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/international-women-s-day/\">International Women’s Day</a> is celebrated on Saturday, with a focus on women’s participation in sport throughout the week, women have been the real headliners in the Irish athletics team in recent times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JHTH2MV7ARHOXMFUY4FGCIBRJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"That is the case again this weekend at the European Indoor Championships now under way in the Dutch city of Apeldoorn, the team of 19 Irish athletes made up of 10 women and nine men. Even without <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rhasidat-adeleke/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rhasidat-adeleke/\">Rhasidat Adeleke,</a> who is focused firmly on the summer ahead, those women have real medal-winning potential.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWU6AE4345AW5H7FOKJ3UX5ABY","additional_properties":{},"content":"This is also the level of competition where Irish athletes should be winning medals, especially after coming home empty-handed from the last two editions in 2021 and 2023. These championships have been growing in stature, and no medals will be easily won. I never competed at a European Indoors back in my time, simply because they weren’t really on my radar, but some of the world’s very best athletes are in Apeldoorn, including of course <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jakob-ingebrigtsen/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jakob-ingebrigtsen/\">Jakob Ingebrigtsen</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AYPR7S66ORGAZNNTJYXXT3QE7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YREBSV5JZBDNVNZTL2FQ65JUOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"P5NHH2MNBVGBPI22BLDGARO6WE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sharlene Mawdsley withdraws from 400m heats at European Indoors","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"2KD3ZJKEMNBSRJW2M6OP7EH4QU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The final event of these championships will be the women’s 4x400m relay, and you can only expect one result here with Dutch star Femke Bol solely focused on the relays, but even without Sharlene Mawdsley the Irish women can be in that medal mix too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D6GTKDYCF67KFSOD6JTZIMO5LQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4UJIHWB6QFDKZOSDM7DKJUSKYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Individually, the greatest weight of expectation for Ireland is on the shoulders of Sarah Healy, who has shown her ability throughout the indoor season to compete with the best athletes in the world over 1,500m and 3,000m. She’s running the 3,000m here, ranked second among the entries, and fresh off breaking two Irish national championship records in both the heat and final of the 1,500m, and is clearly in the best shape of her life.","type":"text"},{"_id":"463F4UGAO5DBZB4TFUZ4GJDTVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Championship running is all about tactics and less about fast times, but Healy has plenty of experience now. Some eyebrows were raised this week when European Athletics announced that Wavelight technology would be used in Apeldoorn, for the first time in any championships, which could take some of the emphasis away from the tactics part.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UX2OKJXVQVDWLILZABGJBM7BEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, this LED pacing system, which sees lights on the inside of a track help athletes target a specific time, will not be used as a direct aid to athletes, according to European Athletics.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GD2JJA3LUVDBRGJPF4KLXRWO5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the 1,500m and 3,000m heats, Wavelight will act as a guide, providing a reference pace that remains the same across all heats. The system will switch on after the first third of the race and switch off before the final lap, offering spectators a clearer comparison of how different races unfold. For the finals, Wavelight technology will display European, world and championship records, but only when an athlete is within five metres of surpassing one.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ML4BTI6NYZBK5BDCCC6ULUVSCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"For me, this still takes something away from championship-style racing, where the athletes are required to think on their feet and react within the race, and we may lose the championship drama that comes with the uncertainty of how a race will pan out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KU27CGETAJHGLLS3S4YBHVJ3PI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"HVKVYE75MRFIVA3BXIVZ6PAKDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The second-best medal chance also comes on the women’s side with Kate O’Connor, who is having a clear run this indoor season and currently ranked second in the pentathlon, after breaking her own Irish record recently in the event that includes the 60m hurdles, long jump, high jump, shot put and 800m over the course of one day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TPSPQMFIMVD45IP2FOOU34O4UA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The accumulation of points she posted was 4,683, and if she can replicate this on the European Championship stage should put her in a medal position. But she will have to be at her best, as the Netherlands also have a chance with Sophie Dokter, who will really want to get a result on the final day in front of her home crowd.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJKO66KM3FCEPJSUSFO5QG74QI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the men’s side, Mark English has been in scintillating form this indoor season, breaking his own Irish record over 800m when running 1:45.15, but he may not have it all his own way in terms of the Irish medal hopes, with Cian McPhillips showing more consistent form this season and also advance from Friday morning’s heats despite taking a tumble.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RNOAVJOI7NGH5M4QNVFQD7VQJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"English has been a dominant force in Irish 800m running for more than a decade, and this may just be the shake-up he needs, to have his fellow countryman breathing down his neck on a stage where English has delivered a bronze medal on two occasions, most recently in 2019, when Ciara Mageean also brought home a bronze medal in the 1,500m.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEECG23ZXBACHBEAFWD57NXLVA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"3APBU24Q7ZA2PFCD2B5OCYIHFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAZG2LYEFND75OTOTZ5TTLYCZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Andrew Coscoran hasn’t run a race since his record-breaking run over the mile at the Millrose Games exactly a month ago. That came shortly after he also broke the Irish 3,000m record in Boston, and places him third on the European list this season in the 3,000m, where he will line up against Ingebrigtsen.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FTXF5OO7UJD3VD4KBGGFNNKWLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ingebrigtsen never shies away from chasing any championship title and also plans to line up over 1,500m, and there’s no doubt he will be ready for any race tactic, with or without any pacing lights to help him run away from the field.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Sonia O'Sullivan"}},"name":"Sonia O'Sullivan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sarah Healy and Kate O’Connor among those in contention in the Netherlands amid strong competition"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T14:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Irish women have real medal-winning potential at European Indoor Championships this weekend","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"MLUPRF6QFVBMBBDLGPPRMTNQRA","auth":{"1":"e68640848685015401eba4f375d1f8cc161eeffad55daa1f293e8268346f1cce"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MLUPRF6QFVBMBBDLGPPRMTNQRA.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/irish-women-have-real-medal-winning-potential-at-european-indoor-championships-this-weekend/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"NBRLIC7COFGLVGO2B24LR6YKAM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":368,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/a0a3d755-c327-4e41-a545-7baf5401c4d5/versions/1741355199/media/bd71e5826a1accc2310aa731b0dbe02b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/scotland-and-wales-stick-with-what-they-know-in-search-of-better-fortunes/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NK56PUYK75GLNI5SHIXCVCT2FA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six Nations: Scotland v Wales, Murrayfield, Saturday, 4.45 – Live on Virgin Media One ","type":"header"},{"_id":"MVROYGKEKNAGXO377PMY5DSF5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Neither of these two are where they want to be after three rounds. In the case of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/wales-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/wales-rugby\">Wales</a>, rock bottom cannot be worse than where they feared they might be; in the case of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scotland-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scotland-rugby\">Scotland</a>, fourth must be so much worse than they had hoped. And some might say deserve.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HWCPG2Q5Y5A6FF2HOEMBHPV3PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Eyebrows may rise, then, at the news that both coaches will more or less send out the same teams that featured in their respective defeats in round three. But <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\">Six Nations</a> tend to have narratives more nuanced than those supplied by the table at any given moment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TBZGIB5EYFAQNORMHHGRM3LCGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland make the only change across the two XVs – and that to bring back Darcy Graham after the concussion he suffered in the defeat by Ireland in round two, without doubt the most disappointing of Scotland’s three performances. He comes in for Kyle Rowe, who replaced him for the defeat in Twickenham in round three, without doubt the most cruel.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UPIW53VMUVGCFNYSEVXPCTL5OM","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-54649","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BKBHNJHVMNHW5OMZDDFYF5WQFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He’d trained with us prior to the England game,” said Gregor Townsend, “but we felt that was a game too early for him and we made sure he didn’t do contact that week. But he’s done full contact for the past 10 days now. He was in great form before his injury, and we expect him to be in similar form now. He’s trained really well.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPYLDNFDQNEX5HRPXNTP3XEABY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland, after the strange slump for the visit of Ireland, long their bogey team, ran rings round England a fortnight ago and managed to lose. They have had little luck with the grounding or otherwise of balls over the line lately. Denied a late win against France last season, when it seemed clear they had grounded the ball, they lost in London last time out courtesy of the only try England managed, which quite clearly had not been grounded.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44LSF6ED7JDHHDONG3EQ5EVI7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finn Russell’s failure to convert any of the three tries Scotland scored in response did not help either, but there is little wrong with Scotland’s form, having scored 10 tries so far, for the concession of only six, a balance second only to France’s. Thus the minimal changes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OZPAFUNCZ5AT5NQHW25V525T2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s a reward for most of the 23 that played at Twickenham,” said Townsend. “Performance-wise, it was very good. We created opportunities and scored three tries and could have scored more.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUBR7Q2OQNCKFHF2YUHALMRAY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Certainly, they are in a happier place than Wales, who go into this match as 16-point underdogs. Should things go the way the bookies expect, Wales will equal Italy’s record for the most consecutive defeats by a Tier One team in the professional era. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"44OSBKEP7NGBLIWI52DQVEIRP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The reason they have chosen an unchanged team – for the first time since 2019 – is the performance in the home defeat by Ireland, Wales’ 15th loss in a row, of the first selection by their interim coach, Matt Sherratt, an exercise in refreshing common sense after the eccentricities into which his predecessor had slipped.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CKNYOHTBY2DRP66WURYBTGHADU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FQDRD3GE4RHHFEWUZPGGDIALRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Warren Gatland paid for defeat number 14 with his job. Hence Sherratt’s elevation to that role, even if only in the “interim”. His new team responded with a lively performance, leading Ireland at the break, holding them to 18-18 on the hour, before three late penalties clinched the match for the visitors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFUQWZOUWFBQ7GMEZR2IA5DUXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Townsend, at least, was impressed. “They played really well in the last Test against Ireland,” he said. “They have a different coaching staff and other players coming back into the squad, and you can see they’re playing with freedom and moving the ball wide. I’m sure they’ll come with that same mindset and give it everything.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EKTSF6TQRZG5ZOYEDJ2XXUWVAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sherratt confirmed that this was indeed their plan. “This week we’ve challenged ourselves to keep improving. We want to keep the same intent and bravery as we showed last time out.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"46ZVAUYJFFD2RBCE5T44MSIPHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Particularly excited will be Dewi Lake, Wales’ sometime captain. The hooker returns from a biceps injury to take up position on the bench, whence he would make his first Six Nations appearance in three years. “He’s been excellent,” said the scrum coach Adam Jones. “He’s a former captain and has been a big player for Wales in the last few years. He’s adding another voice. He’s a big bugger as well. He wants to carry.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4GISTF3M3ZGVTO3DCDZBYXG53Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wales are not exactly spoilt for candidates for the Lions tour, but Lake may be one of them. “Dare I say,” said Jones, “it’s a big year for him with what’s going on in the summer. That’s the beauty of this year. Anyone who plays well in the Six Nations has a chance to tour in the summer. You can lose your ticket on the plane by having a bad game or you can get it by having a big game. There’s a few boys in our squad who are in the mix and he’s one of them. It’s good to have him back.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AP5GDHRH3RA2RI6XIRRBTEBTII","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>SCOTLAND:</b> B Kinghorn (Toulouse); D Graham (Edinburgh), H Jones (Glasgow), T Jordan (Glasgow), D van der Merwe (Edinburgh); F Russell (Bath, capt), B White (Toulon); P Schoeman (Edinburgh), D Cherry (Edinburgh), Z Fagerson (Glasgow); J Gray (Bordeaux), G Gilchrist (Edinburgh); J Ritchie (Edinburgh), R Darge (Glasgow, capt), J Dempsey (Glasgow). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"APAKOYLBLFFQTOMWYPCH655HUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements: </b>E Ashman (Edinburgh), R Sutherland (Glasgow), W Hurd (Leicester), G Brown (Glasgow), M Fagerson (Glasgow), G Horne (Glasgow), K Rowe (Glasgow), S McDowall (Glasgow). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BODCGPI54ZE5RJNGYM3CK64GVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>WALES:</b> B Murray (Scarlets); T Rogers (Scarlets), M Llewellyn (Gloucester), B Thomas (Cardiff), E Mee (Scarlets); G Anscombe (Gloucester), T Williams (Gloucester); N Smith (Leicester), E Dee (Dragons), W John (Sale Sharks); W Rowlands (Racing 92), D Jenkins (Exeter); J Morgan (Ospreys, capt), T Reffell (Leicester), T Faletau (Cardiff).","type":"text"},{"_id":"EX54LSITFBECNLSBKG5DD5E3LU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> D Lake (Ospreys), G Thomas (Ospreys), K Assiratti (Cardiff), E Williams (Cardiff), A Wainwright (Dragons), R Williams (Dragons), J Evans (Harlequins), J Roberts (Scarlets).","type":"text"},{"_id":"5IAKJKK2RZGXXB6YAI4IRQ6ECM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee: </b>A Piardi (Ita).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Michael Aylwin"}]},"description":{"basic":"Both Gregor Townsend and Matt Sherratt have shown faith in the XVs who performed well in their most recent defeats"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T13:41:32.017Z","headlines":{"basic":"Scotland and Wales stick with what they know in search of better fortunes ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"E2VIB25SODV2ELSVRPMPBG2TVQ","auth":{"1":"d53cddaea9080caffd3a10b1c46370aa2330bf77a30ce562595db6518ca6dfc9"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/E2VIB25SODV2ELSVRPMPBG2TVQ.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/scotland-and-wales-stick-with-what-they-know-in-search-of-better-fortunes/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"ORUO7HOKENFX7BDWVS5L6ODFPU","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/podcasts/the-counter-ruck/is-ireland-vs-france-the-best-rivalry-of-the-modern-era/","content_elements":[{"_id":"XLETGTPALBAIVAEIKTROMXSFKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"For the third time in as many years, it looks that the winner of Ireland’s clash with France will go on to win the Six Nations. Who, then, are the favourites for Saturday’s clash in Dublin and why?","type":"text"},{"_id":"MMWB6XQHVBFNTADY4SE2NOLSZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irish Times rugby correspondent Gerry Thornley joins Nathan Johns to preview the clash. What does Ireland’s selection of Jamie Osborne as Mack Hansen’s injury replacement tell us of the impending game plan? Will Ireland continue to be a kick-heavy team? What to make of France’s attack scoring a plethora of tries so far in this competition? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBGN35ICYFAMHKSFJDJG7XIP3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Produced by John Casey.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"The Counter Ruck Podcast"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T13:19:50.44Z","headlines":{"basic":"Is Ireland vs France the best rivalry of the modern era?","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KYTJMWAMU5H5TDYS6OXOKMO2VQ","auth":{"1":"db9074918cd7662d7c628f8f520bbb88557acd040fa0bd4a3334f958f60c92ed"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KYTJMWAMU5H5TDYS6OXOKMO2VQ.jpg"},"podcast":{"embed":{"config":{"duration":1425.024,"episodeTitle":"Who will win Le Nouveau Crunch?","imageUrl":"https://assets.pippa.io/shows/64ef6d9e5464d50011bafece/1739272379918-c03b2529-1643-4e02-ab77-51ef2d1ea4b6.jpeg","showTitle":"The Counter Ruck ","streamUrl":"https://feeds.acast.com/public/streams/64ef6d9e5464d50011bafece/episodes/67caf110ffae9c0f4e5a6c52.mp3"}}}},"subtype":"podcast","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"The Counter Ruck Podcast"},{"name":"Sport"},{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Podcasts"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/podcasts/the-counter-ruck/is-ireland-vs-france-the-best-rivalry-of-the-modern-era/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/podcasts/the-counter-ruck","additional_properties":{"original":{"Podcast":{"podcast_logo":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JA5CIJZZSRF7ZKLAJ5Y7LWMMII.jpg"}}},"name":"The Counter Ruck Podcast"}}}},{"_id":"YBO2SFQ4ZVDUJM2EJYJOWLPX4A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":135,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/229b3926-0cb2-449c-b9c6-c8a595c8ff21/versions/1741348798/media/49438b668c954cb413f8b02f0f5b5fdc_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sharlene-mawdsley-withdraws-from-400m-heats-at-european-indoors/","content_elements":[{"_id":"6BXDLPUWFNGWBCNME7NT3XNCVU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996113},"content":"Some 14 hours after <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sharlene-mawdsley/\">Sharlene Mawdsley</a> ran the fastest anchor leg of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/athletics/2025/03/06/sharlene-mawdsleys-searing-anchor-leg-still-leaves-ireland-short-of-a-mixed-relay-medal-at-the-european-indoors/\">mixed 4x400m relay final</a> she withdrew from her heat of the individual 400m in Friday’s morning session of the European Indoor Championships.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZF6XN7WGTND47BKH6WISQLZZCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996114},"content":"Mawdsley explained on social media that she had suffered a minor hamstring injury during the warm-up.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G4XEUIVEIJESHKJ34MOJNGZYYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996115},"content":"“Unfortunately I’ve had to withdraw from the 400m this morning due to a slight hamstring injury in the warm up,“ she posted on Instagram. “I’m devastated after my run in yesterday’s relay splitting a 49.9 but I’ll be back for outdoors.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"B2PX2OQCVJEN5FZ6CCQQ4BFCX4","subtype":"instagram","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"VLTRTQIYVFDPNDKUGCLY4QSYPI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996117},"content":"The Tipperary athlete had been drawn in the fifth of the five heats, with only the top two, plus the two fastest losers, progressing to the semi-finals later on Friday night. Mawdsley’s interest in Apeldoorn is now over and she will also miss the women’s 4x400m relay, run as a straight six-team final on Sunday evening.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7Q4MTYUB7ZDVBNQSFNMPPE2XRQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996118},"content":"Another Dutch favourite Lieke Klaver won the second heat in 51.52 seconds, having played no role in their mixed relay success the night before. In that same heat, Ireland’s Lauren Cadden finished fifth in 56.77 seconds, well off her best, having gone out a little too fast in the opening lap.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7Q4MTYUB7ZDVBNQSFNMPPE2XRQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996119},"content":"Rachal McCann also went in heat four, and despite running a personal best of 53.16 to finish fourth, that wasn’t enough to progress. There were some other surprises elsewhere, gold medal favourite Amber Anning from Great Britain was disqualified for a lane infringement after winning her heat in 51.01 seconds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSR74WPGTREAVLQ7VO7QNSB46Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996120},"content":"Sarah Lavin produced another cool and confident run to seal her place in the final of the 60m hurdles later this evening (8.43pm Irish time), nailing second place in her semi-final to ensure an automatic qualifying spot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y2OYRKQKIBA5PGX3AAWCHPR44M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996121},"content":"After running a season best of 7.93 seconds to win her heat on Thursday evening, Lavin returned to the Omnisport Arena with clear intent, having made European and World Indoor finals over the previous two years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PI7667AXWJCFXKDBBMHPVGL65Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996122},"content":"Pia Skrzyszowska from Poland, the 2022 European outdoor champion in the 100m hurdles, took the win in 7.84, with Lavin a clear second in 7.94. It promises to be a tight and hard-fought final, Ditaji Kambundji from Switzerland winning the other semi-final in 7.82, ahead of Dutch hope Nadine Visser, second in 7.85.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YSZPCUO4MNAZJMDNWHWW6ZMUOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996123},"content":"Lavin finished sixth in the final in Istanbul two years ago, and the 30-year-old from Limerick certainly won’t lack motivation to make the podium this time around.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D23OTACBOBEIRHUCHTV5ERVAOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996124},"content":"Earlier, both Mark English and Cian McPhillips endured a tense experience in their heats of the 800m, McPhillips bring tripped down the final backstretch of his race, and ending up on the track, as did Bartosz Kitlinsk from Poland in front of him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ILY7EOTWK6KSABMPJ5ZG4G7AQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996125},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FWW72JSTLFGERPK3ITWWOORWGU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996126},"content":"Crucially, both runners got up to finish the race, McPhillips coming home in 1:57.35, and after Kitlinsk successfully appealed the contact which had earlier knocked him off his stride, McPhillips too was reinstated on appeal. Both runners will now take their place in the semi-finals on Saturday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZZBEKURQ2JBGBOL5YEYODFRBDU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996127},"content":"English is the only member of the team who has won medals at this level before, an 800m silver in 2015 and bronze in 2022, but rode his luck a little, still in fourth coming off the final bend, before a gap opened up and he finished second in 1:46.42.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Irish athlete suffers hamstring injury during warm-up for Friday morning’s heats"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T13:05:42.792Z","headlines":{"basic":"Sharlene Mawdsley withdraws from 400m heats at European Indoors","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IQSIZ4SWLNFQ4PYSMR2TKL7MI4","auth":{"1":"235f2f5ca2b983e21bb205260a361cf7551abe759d6f57ef819bd10ed61e50d0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IQSIZ4SWLNFQ4PYSMR2TKL7MI4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sharlene-mawdsley-withdraws-from-400m-heats-at-european-indoors/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"JMZ2DZGBKBCSNMTPLXSD3YF5QE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":392,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/b486c186-2ecb-49fb-9624-7e1c5e4576eb/versions/1741273996/media/81e733ff9efb07cd5d87e9a705154875_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/matt-williams-france-have-the-power-and-unpredictability-to-put-ireland-in-a-spin/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NMMMLFGW5FAH7DCF7Q2AOP2VAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"When you drive on to a roundabout in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\">France</a>, you are entering into an experiment in Darwinian evolution. Adapt or die.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5TDO3WJZ25FLXPWUH3L7UF36LY","additional_properties":{},"content":"To survive this challenge there are a few essential principles to which you must hold fast.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCCZPTUB6RBC5EZOHS3RYMS224","additional_properties":{},"content":"Firstly, every driver is to be considered hostile. They should be viewed as holding an unconscious, yet malicious intent to deceive you at every opportunity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"II4W24BBZRFJFKLUWA5LYQPLZE","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-75128","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZBLY7U3675FE7H7VMOYIWIHVPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Secondly, any indication, be it a flashing indicator, a hand gesture or a signal of any form, is to be immediately regarded as being an untrustworthy deception of deliberate negligence, designed to entice you into potential calamity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5EN2MSRJQ5EERPJ7Q4W7V4BIAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lastly, under no circumstances can you assume that a driver in another car is making decisions that you would consider to be “logical.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TFGZ3LXDN5E7JG3RPXXSXZXZSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s a jungle out there.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7YHYHSIEARHVZLXDJBFENU7KSY","additional_properties":{},"content":"So expect what you least expect and expect it every single time you enter into that decision-making contest. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5QZP75FZ6NFE3CQIX3IGN5VEMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Now take those same survival laws and put them into your match plan to prepare for the French at the Aviva. Every first move by the French may be a decoy. They will not be thinking as you expect them to be. So expect the unexpected. Trust nothing but your team’s ability to adapt, perform and survive.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXPKY3U6AVCDDH6V6N6OI5CCXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The last time the French came to Dublin, in 2023, they did the unexpected, which, unexpectedly, delivered a pulsating match that was as good as any I have witnessed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CJEYM3ODERFLRAPJUGQLPFWLSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"With no previous indications, the French decided they would deny Ireland their strike plays from lineouts by not kicking the ball into touch. As a consequence, the amount of time the ball was in play rocketed, which in turn produced a wonderful match of side-to-side and end-to-end flowing rugby. It was like two heavyweight champions, standing toe-to-toe, trading blows. The French trying, but unable, to land an early knockout. As the high tempo of the match continued, the French fuel tanks ran dry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3IJE2IO75GZDHUMUHWUF7KMIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under the law of unintended consequences, the French tactics, the same ones that created such an epic contest, drove them into exhaustion. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VHL2KLIARDGHODNPM6XSVD5AA","additional_properties":{},"content":"That was then.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2WJSY62RNGCPMMDXDHW76PO7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Now, Fabien Galthié’s team will arrive in Dublin with more complexity to their game than they had in 2023. This time the French will box clever.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EIDWJ6HRZFA6RCVU26CS5RF2PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"France used their recent demolition of Italy in Rome as a dress rehearsal of their plan to defeat Ireland. The 40-metre forward drive that led to Paul Boudehent’s try provided a glimpse of the power game France will try to impose on Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QI5M7Q5AIZAHVNBNTTDZRFDA5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"While the crowd may have viewed the try as unspectacular, to the tactically minded it was a tour de force of direct rugby. Aggression combined with technically excellent contact skills revealed the immense yet controlled attacking power inside this French pack.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JUJUVBYVLVBN5INQPGTEOG5FFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Let us remember that second rows, such as Joe McCarthy, provide the power inside a team. Despite the wealth of playing talent within the Top 14, the French have not had a group of locks they consistently select. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5UZGLAAJBVDLTJHV5GDFS35MEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In their search for the right combination in their engine room Paul Willemse, Cameron Woki, Bastien Chalureau, Paul Gabrillagues, Posolo Tuilagi, Emmanuel Meafou and Alexandre Roumat have all been tried and tested. But it has been the introduction of the Lyon-based Mickaël Guillard and the return from injury of Thibaud Flament that appears to have maximised the effectiveness of this French pack.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BPAWWBVHORBXBK2ELK4PLOEF2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"After the first three games of the championship, France have the most successful lineout (97 per cent), equal highest scrum success (94 per cent) and the greatest number of offloads, (49) while conceding the fewest penalties (17). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ETWQDVTOFNHFZKUOLVLFP7G3SM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In contrast, Ireland have the lowest lineout success (88 per cent), lowest scrum success (85 have) and have missed the most tackles (91). They have scored seven of their 10 tries from lineouts and two from scrums.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TUK5DHCSVJBDFDE5SWUCN7AVFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"While there is truth in the “lies, damn lies and statistics” cliche, the reality is that the foundation for stopping Ireland’s game plan rests in disrupting their possession from set play and giving away a minimum number of penalties. To create chaos in the Irish defence, opposition attacks must produce offloads. New Zealand played this game last November.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7LOEZFSO5FDYJGEGHT3TJFIOD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Those stats suggest France are highly capable of repeating New Zealand’s success.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X3366ME4HFH63CK3MZO2J2FVEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"After playing Barbarian rugby and failing in 2023, France will seek to earn the right to go around Ireland by first going through them. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2NV5O55IRRAZZERXYKQS5UEI4A","additional_properties":{},"content":" They will tear into Ireland’s scrum and lineout. In attack, they are going route one and running their forwards at what they perceive as the weakness of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sam-prendergast/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sam-prendergast/\">Sam Prendergast</a>’s tackling technique. Sam will have a busy day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EGWKMEZIBJBOVIQD3T67X7JJXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French spine of Peato Mauvaka, Grégory Alldritt, the great Antoine Dupont, Romain Ntamack and Thomas Ramos provides buckets of unpredictable creativity to sit along side the brute force of their pack.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MOMVALUSVVDT3HFMQZZX7GZVAM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Le Petit Général Dupont will be the commander in chief. He will wrangle his immensely powerful French pack to punch Ireland straight up the guts before the French attack coach, Patrick Arlettaz, unleashes his backline. With Ntamack restored to the 10 jersey, he will feed the lightning-fast back-three unit of Ramos, Penaud and Bielle-Biarrey to attack on the flanks, swinging as a unit of three to both sides of the field.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PB2MVYWVKBC3BGFT7HXQM2W4KE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French attack is a potent concoction. And it will be supported by the brutality of their 7-1 bench, which means the performance of the Irish reserve front row will be crucial. Especially Thomas Clarkson and the recalled Rob Herring, who will both be tested to the extremities of their abilities.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IPWAYYGHN5BSJCNJGA4546644I","additional_properties":{},"content":"As with entering those perilous French roundabouts, here we must show caution. Following a decade of French decline, Galthié deserves great credit for the rediscovery of French panache. They are a joy to watch.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YQ256SLR6NCU7GWJYCDHQF7EAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For all of that excellent French play, one Grand Slam since Galthié took over in 2020 has been an underwhelming return for a team possessing such immense talent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H4KBG4GOJ5GHFDDHT6RIZROL44","additional_properties":{},"content":"All combined, this vivid, intricate and competing backstory has created the clash of the championship. The winner will almost certainly lift the trophy next weekend. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FJLX6STRQ5EY7FWLRKWVCEW4UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Why the hell is Ireland v France on at 2.15pm on a Saturday? This is a rugby rivalry for the ages","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"U64VZVIPPVB25JKACSZ74E4EMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland will have to be at the peak of their powers for the full 80 minutes. Anything less and the Grand Slam will evaporate into the Dublin sky and Dupont and his team will be heading back to Paris with one hand on the Six Nations trophy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YWBGFGHUAFH63KPNN45MVAN7PU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is the kind of fixture that only the Six Nations can produce. A belter of enormous proportions awaits.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Matt Williams"}},"name":"Matt Williams"}]},"description":{"basic":"Ireland, including their replacement forwards, must perform at their best to prevail in what promises to be a belting Six Nations clash "},"display_date":"2025-03-07T13:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Matt Williams: France have the power and unpredictability to put Ireland in a spin ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"GEKSN3OX6CKRCSRLDNOILY52L4","auth":{"1":"0271c7c30f1720d930670ae2144b358fc26813394bac905ed3c1474a0be3ce0f"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/GEKSN3OX6CKRCSRLDNOILY52L4.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/matt-williams-france-have-the-power-and-unpredictability-to-put-ireland-in-a-spin/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"QPVZ5R3DNVD7JLQSHBW4BHDNM4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":176,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/39fb98b6-511a-49de-8f54-eca74c70de90/versions/1741351700/media/37bfdc47685c1b128388271407b9da94_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/fans-prepared-to-travel-from-near-and-far-for-celtics-pre-season-friendly-in-cork/","content_elements":[{"_id":"C4EL6NAVABHSJEHDEAQ7HFZAXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The inaugural Cork Super Cup featuring <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/celtic\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/celtic\">Celtic</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cork-city\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cork-city\">Cork City </a>at Supervalu <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pairc-ui-chaoimh\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pairc-ui-chaoimh\">Páirc Uí Chaoimh</a> in July is already generating a lot of interest from Celtic fans all over Ireland as well as in Scotland, early indications suggest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GD3J5MG4RRCORL77AH7Q26E3KA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Neil Reilly of the Association of Irish Celtic Supporters Clubs said he had learned that presale figures show strong demand from Celtic fans in Northern Ireland, Scotland and further afield. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"STYAXMB5UFEU3PPDCDN3IFACPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There has been a lot of interest from within Ireland with supporters travelling from as far as Donegal, Tyrone and Belfast. I know of quite a few from Glasgow and also from Germany that have booked up already for the game,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNL6ZV3A4ZA43BD3S6X575OKPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The numbers of Irish fans going to Celtic home games is increasing week on week, this surge is being replicated with the number of enquiries I have received since Monday, especially from families who want to come to Cork to see the Bhoys play.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QLKSYJMXOVCJJE5I73UVLL5VL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The tickets went on sale on Friday morning, priced from €28 for the terraces and €30 for the stands, while children’s tickets range in price from €18 to €20. A family ticket (two adults and two children) are available for €115 and the organisers have arranged a dedicated block in the stadium for families.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVJYMRL4DRBI7CGX4BHEPO2AQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Dan Boyle of the Green Party said he expected the game on Leeside to prove a sell-out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OCSBHWXYBRDJPCGFQVBH7YMSVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Cork is a brilliant city for a short visit and promises a brilliant atmosphere for those who will travel for the game. My father was a diehard Celtic fan, so this match has an added significance for me. I look forward to Cork giving fans from far and wide a huge welcome on July 8th.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"I3WDDJKC7RCBDOPVYAKS6GCQF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AOJHVF3NBCZPPNTHSQZNX2LCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"PQQSVZGYTBC6XFC3QFYZ3FBJCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cork GAA chief executive Kevin O’Donovan wouldn’t be drawn on what the game would be worth to the county, who are promoting the game with Druid Sports. Munster’s sell-out clash against New Zealand side the Crusaders at the ground is believed to have netted Cork GAA between €150,000 to 200,000.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IXDB4YWGTFEQPMJSKIUICWDXZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The profits from the game will assist Cork GAA in their efforts to pay off the €30 million debt still outstanding on the 45,000 capacity stadium which cost a €96 million when it went a major redevelopment between 2015 to 2017.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N6KGG2S5XBBBZNVNN24S6AKVZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The game will be just the third soccer match to be played at Cork GAA HQ after the women’s soccer international in 2024 and a Man Utd Legends XI and a Celtic/Republic of Ireland XI in 2018 which raised funds for the family of the late Liam Miller who played for both Celtic and Manchester United in his career as a professional footballer.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPLTAY3JFNB5PJBX3RB7SQT4XM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tickets for the inaugural Cork Super Cup, which go on sale this morning, are available from either<a href=\"http://corksupercup.com/tickets\" rel=\"\"> CorkSuperCup.com/tickets</a> or directly from <a href=\"http://ticketmaster.ie/\" rel=\"\">ticketmaster.ie</a>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Barry Roche"}},"name":"Barry Roche"}]},"description":{"basic":"July’s game at Páirc Uí Chaoimh expected to be a sell-out "},"display_date":"2025-03-07T12:43:16.796Z","headlines":{"basic":"Celtic fans prepared to travel from near and far for pre-season friendly in Cork","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Celtic v Cork City"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"CPSCXVASAV3QPXXGR3OYW35U2Y","auth":{"1":"af99de69761752e10cd44f0bf2d6fc86789f20459a89cdbae2f9ee5fb2f8b51b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CPSCXVASAV3QPXXGR3OYW35U2Y.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/fans-prepared-to-travel-from-near-and-far-for-celtics-pre-season-friendly-in-cork/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"HPFVZRM45REC3GXJUFVXY32SZA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":589,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/aad1c6fd-3c5f-42fa-b62a-b66c85872942/versions/1741294379/media/2053c5814efae5c904710954465f453b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/green-giants-healy-omahony-and-murray-set-for-final-home-bow/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DKVIHRXQEZGFFIYBLLTO5DL7QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Who’s the tall teenager with the Beatles haircut and the tracer-like pass? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2AEWZCU4VCZ3HED7SGMMFA6SI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Standing on the sideline, there was a gale blowing off the estuary that swept across the upper pitch at Malahide RFC. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\">Ireland</a> hosted Italy in an Under-19 international on Saturday, March 22nd, 2008.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCAQUKSHDJGULDTTHAYLQOK5NE","additional_properties":{},"content":"I was struck by the quality and poise of the Irish scrumhalf, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-murray/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/conor-murray/\">Conor Murray</a>, and his captain that day, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peter-omahony/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/peter-omahony/\">Peter O’Mahony</a>, a rampaging, bristling dervish happy to confront all-comers in blue. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VOPPPHM2VRCSTDLALLL65VPVLA","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-23468","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5BI7Y5MGKBCQTEZIN27CBZJUAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the Aviva Stadium this weekend, they will play their final home Test match for Ireland, joined by <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-healy/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cian-healy/\">Cian Healy</a> who like his team-mates will sign off on their international careers at the end of the Six Nations against Italy in Rome, three outstanding players and servants to their provinces and country. Four people who knew them well offer an insight.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JX7HEFUNFVEB7KN3WN7A7F2JRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ian McKinley </b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"QXJKULDPMVEQPCTKPIYDNBMQ7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The Dublin-born, former Italian international played alongside Murray and O’Mahony in that game in Malahide and also at Under-20 level for Ireland, counting them as cherished team-mates and provincial rivals on the occasion of Leinster versus Munster duels.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"DA37XIANDBAM7IDJY2GCKWMEVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The first time I encountered Pete was in a Munster versus Leinster U-19 Schools game at Donnybrook. He was number eight and captain of Munster. My dad is from Tipp, so we would have that healthy rivalry, half the household is Leinster the other half Munster. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HQFBZFPIWJCPPKEF3GUTIPDOS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"My dad being an ex-hooker loved Munster forwards and just saw that this lad had that sort of steely Munster look and determination about him. Pete has gone on to write his own history.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5M4PTCI3VZAZ7KUBJJ42UJXG7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Playing with them at Ireland U-19 and U-20s, I got to know them well. I roomed with Conor during the Junior World Cup so I would have gotten to know him a little bit through that. Conor keeps a room tidy. I’ve never come across any roommates since that has kept a room so tidy and everything so precise. I felt like a dirty animal beside Conor.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2NM3B6GFVHBJLQUTQARTGVOE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He was extremely calm, that stands out first and foremost, the basics of the game were really good; the accuracy of his passing, his box kicking was second to none, and defence. He gave you reassurances playing outside him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JTPSZ7CIV5F2BFIYREJMZEZHXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pete, you’d run through a brick wall for the man. He knew what to say, what to do and the most important thing led from the front. We would all have put a mortgage that Pete would not only have been a captain of Ireland but for the Lions. He led from the front and would not take a step back. Brilliant players and team-mates, both. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KQOLH5AIYNETVIJASDG6YPIVMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Michael Kearney </b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"36NQ4QYWENHRXEL7TFWDRIF5KI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Former Ireland team manager </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSQDAIXP6JETHNAM5QG37ZLHGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"I have obviously known them since 2012, seen them develop, grow-up and mature into adults and all three fathers at this stage. There is a great presence about Peter. He commands attention when he speaks, commands a room when he comes into it, his personality much the same as he presents but at the same time [he] would have a very droll , good sense of humour, very good fun on a night out. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XZO5XF6VORDMZCFZUKM6SCAYLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He’s tough, very uncompromising but very loyal, a fantastic team-mate: I can talk about the three of them very much in the same light when I mentioned those traits.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6D32PQ2BNEPVBJBXNIWQASLII","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"XZO5XF6VORDMZCFZUKM6SCAYLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFVGY66D7BEA5AWGTUCBFUTELU","additional_properties":{},"content":"They have that fantastic ability just to fit in, fit into the team environment, never put their heads above the parapet and cause trouble, or look for extra things or complain, none of that from any of them. All the compliments that have been paid to them over the past week are well deserved. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"A7SXVOLSQJF55J3WUCCONK3FG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"During my time I got to know them well. You almost wouldn’t notice them if you know what I mean, they are understated personality wise, they don’t really put themselves out there, they are not the people that would be leading the charge on a night out. They’d fit in seamlessly, would be a very good description of the three of them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TORCJSV4TZCBTLZNZCX5MJM7UY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Conor has been extraordinary in terms of his contribution. I was just thinking about it, trying to remember Conor making a mistake; it’s quite hard, it’s difficult to pinpoint whether it’s a knock on, a drop ball, or a poor kick. He is just unflappable really on and off the pitch. He brings a fantastic sense of calm to everyone around him. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TI2LUT2NW5EODA55427PRTFZXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cian, if I was to think of one word, it would be, ‘hard’. He is resilient, never complains, gets on with his work, a brilliant team-mate, very helpful to others around him. But again understated. It’s extraordinary the similarities between the three players in terms of their personalities. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G7CSTYZC6FGPZMHWAPCGT26U6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"They are three genuinely good people. I couldn’t pick three better people in my time. I got Kevin Moran and Liam Brady in for a chat with the Ireland squad during the week. I asked Kevin a question: if he was a rugby player on the Irish team who would be? ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNFYSWNTPNHHVAKOCCKODAO5H4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He answered: ‘It would probably be Peter O’Mahony;’ tough, gnarly, angry, uncompromising, put your head where others wouldn’t type of player. It got a great laugh from the lads.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5KXW6VGEUFCMZFNEWWELHXFC4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ian Keatley </b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"5PAXJLLE5VENNNETNJFSYPMZ2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>School-mate and team-mate of Cian Healy on a Belvedere College side that won a Leinster Schools Senior Cup, they were on the Ireland Under-20 team that won a Grand Slam (2007) and joined the Leinster academy together. He played alongside Peter O’Mahony and Conor Murray for Munster and Ireland </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKBLXNPQNBEOFH4O6AZVMUOG7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cian has always been very determined, confident in his own ability and never had any fear growing up. He used to rollerblade, used to be able to do flips on the roller blades, which for the size of him he shouldn’t have been able to do. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y4CMMYGVQZCJHLPINA7P7ZTA5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"He loved art. He loved rollerblading, he loved DJing; whatever he did he threw himself in 100 per cent to get better at it. He didn’t do anything half-arsed, backed himself, like in his rugby career. In the [Leinster] Academy he’d rack up PB’s, breaking his own little records in the gym. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YN6SYV2Y5NAIBPMVBAW3MSKOJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"If he got an injury, he’d research it and find out different ways how we could get better. Even now he has recovery stations, like ice baths in his back garden. He just looked after his body so well. It’s unbelievable what he’s done. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSOHTHQKWFFSLDIJ33KJ7LPIAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He’s so humble, real down to earth. He is coaching down in Clontarf, trying to upskill as a coach. He helps the Irish [U]20s players with their technique. He’s a really great guy and it’s incredible that he’s Ireland’s most capped international as he’s playing in one of the most attritional positions. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7SYC3LUHNGNHIUIADO3NEGRMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The first year I went to Munster was Conor Murray’s breakthrough year and then he broke through to the Ireland team. He’s a really, humble guy, very easy to talk to, very laid back, chilled, reserved, still good fun but a cool customer. You can see that whenever he plays. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"57BSOEVR2BAQXIUUOFXZ5VY7DQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He never gets rattled, even if he makes a mistake. He has this unbelievable ability to park it. I couldn’t believe how talented he was, his box-kicks, his passing, his defensive skills. For a long time, Conor was the pinnacle, one of the world’s best, three Lions tours and captained them too. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RTH2CHB5EVDJDE6BALOL4JCZ74","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"57BSOEVR2BAQXIUUOFXZ5VY7DQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"P3KCTOQREVDTDEUJHBBSMK7FTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Pete is one of the easiest people to read. What I like about Pete is his personality comes out on the pitch. That’s the way he is. He’s just such a determined guy, aggressive on the pitch, and even in training, he trains the way he plays, with that edge. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CIY53M4PFDAFDLZ7OGOYSPLEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He never shied away from his personality. Rassie [Erasmus] used to say, ‘don’t try to be anyone else, be your personality’. Pete certainly did that while being supportive. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TJC2IDBJLBDTXJMRFNXMOIDH44","additional_properties":{},"content":"He grew into the Munster captaincy after taking a year to figure it out and became an unbelievable leader, by setting an example of how to be on the pitch and off and in training. If someone didn’t do something right, he made sure he corrected them. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UKXHBV7YMBHWRFZH2O7J4S2AQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He led by example, a vocal leader and an unbelievable captain but would still have the craic. The three boys have had unbelievable careers and hopefully they get a good send off in their last home game at the Aviva. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7NX2J6NHOZFZDNOJ2RAIAFMM7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Patrick ‘Rala’ O’Reilly</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"ND2ZWQ6QOVGXZLSPAWGX3ERP7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Former bagman ‘pastoral counsellor’ to Ireland and Lions teams amongst others. </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"VRV46PVMQJAXBNMSYIY7BDBDKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Ah, the three bunnies, I have nothing but fond memories of the way they looked after me, as much as I looked after them, and literally on one occasion in the case of Peter O’Mahony in the old Intercontinental Hotel in Ballsbridge. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VTWQSJX4IJBHTJMILJWPUMLC3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"I had a medical mishap, bit dehydrated, and collapsed. I remember coming to with Peter standing over me, going ‘Rala, Rala are you okay?’ He nearly volunteered to come to the hospital with me, such was his concern. Peter was first on the scene. I was shipped off to the hospital for three days. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6UCFGMG3UZF5JEQMTLXGBLCDTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"This was the same stay in which I went up to my room to be greeted by no furniture at all. The players had removed everything, bed, dresser, tables, lampshades, every stick and all my belongings. They left just the carpet and the door. Another time they took the door too. I’d say Peter would be handy with a screwdriver.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSFOV56TS5AXBKRDGPCZUJA574","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"6UCFGMG3UZF5JEQMTLXGBLCDTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"2UY6O2WBRFFILLXPB3AIDCKRRA","additional_properties":{},"content":" I’ve so many memories of the three boys, some of them messy, like when they’d kick the lovely, clean, folded laundry up and down the corridor in Carton House. It used to come back in neat parcels, they, amongst other culprits, would collect their gear, and then kick the rest of it down the corridor.","type":"text"},{"_id":"473F2H3HP5GIBDC2YT4Z4XNP3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cian took me off-roading once, in a great big 4x4 jeep at Carton House. I went to find some wellies, but he said, ‘Rala you won’t need those’. A wheel fell off during our adventure and I had to trudge through knee deep sludge back to the hotel in brand new runners. He is one of the players that has come with me to my spiritual home, Inishbofin. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3PFQV4XMDZFATAQSQBGWKETU2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Watching them play an international on television I’ll chuckle occasionally when one of their faces appears on screen because a story will pop into my head. They deserve every accolade; they made my life brighter with their friendship and I wish everything for them over the next couple of weekends. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"John O'Sullivan"}},"name":"John O'Sullivan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Leinster stalwart and inspirational Munster pair have served Ireland with distinction over their long careers"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T11:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cian Healy, Peter O’Mahony and Conor Murray: In the words of friends and colleagues","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"EHOJHNQ2C5WX6XJUSA27XA2MLI","auth":{"1":"d34e1aab0f51567644c0a1de1ac5d09ac3a0d5013423ee5b96f47b314b6443bd"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/EHOJHNQ2C5WX6XJUSA27XA2MLI.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"feature","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/green-giants-healy-omahony-and-murray-set-for-final-home-bow/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"AON6NIDGMZCJ5J5XTNAJMP7BKE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":670,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/c59b5004-b42b-4adb-9c17-b53b47d73c87/versions/1741357649/media/9cef716a86d38eb6be74fa853309a867_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/","content_elements":[{"_id":"YDGMZYJUWZBD3M6QAXUX2CHFCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"To say that any duel is worth the admission money alone might be a bit of a stretch at €150 per ticket, but if any matchup is to fall into such a category at the Aviva Stadium this Saturday, or indeed any other game in the 2025 <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/\">Six Nations</a>, it is <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jamison-gibson-park/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jamison-gibson-park/\">Jamison Gibson-Park</a> v <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont/\">Antoine Dupont</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEXYR7J5MZE7VNU7AFSL5XTYDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In any other era, Gibson-Park might be considered the best scrumhalf in the world game. As things stand, Gibson-Park is the favourite to be next summer’s Lions Test ‘9’. But, in Dupont, he’s up against the best player in the world. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HHQ6AF5HFRCMHKOM7UE6A3PVOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"French rugby has, uniquely, always had a production line of scrumhalves but this is a misleading fact, for their number ‘9s’ are not remotely robotic. They are usually instinctive players of flair, very often goal kickers and capable of playing at ‘10’, the brains and the beating hearts who often transition into head coaches. At any point in history they probably have about half a dozen Test-quality scrumhalves. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"I3BOBHMR3FFRHDLDIGKLOSPFAY","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-43795","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"E2E2BYBNVNFZ3FBFFIJ5JDFD7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jacques Fouroux is deemed the original ‘petit caporal’, then there’s Fabien Galthié, Pierre Berbizier, Dmitri Yachvili, Jean-Baptiste Elissalde, Morgan Parra and, of course, Dupont. He may not be a goal kicker, but he ticks every other box and more. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"U2UMQC4PXJCWTELBHW57ZWUNGA","additional_properties":{},"content":" By contrast, ala most countries, in Irish rugby the decision-making and goal-kicking are entrusted to the outhalf. They are afforded mystical status, while traditionally the scrumhalves have been there to serve them. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FC27XCCZ6FDWFPZDAUSM2N3YCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"None did so better than Peter Stringer, while influential scrumhalves such as Tomás O’Leary, Eoin Reddan and Conor Murray brought serious running and kicking threats of their own. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D4ZWYKHO2FA4JCSU4N522QBD54","additional_properties":{},"content":"But, perhaps more so than any Irish scrumhalf previously, Gibson-Park has become as much of a key decision-maker as the young pretender to the ‘10’ throne, Sam Prendergast. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YFE2TUS5UZDX3I53MBVVW7ATFY","additional_properties":{},"content":" Not only will Saturday’s game pitch two world-class players against each other, but thanks to law changes which have given scrumhalves more time and space, and afforded them more of a quarterback’s role, the influence of Gibson-Park and Dupont on the respective current Ireland and French teams has gone to a new level this season. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"A25DQXXLXRGKZOULBJTDFKADNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" Like many team-mates, Gibson-Park looked a little undercooked in the Autumn Series but he has been back to his effervescent best in this Six Nations. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"OTTJT4UN4ZAKHAL2YAUFUUM6C4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Supporting his kindred spirit James Lowe on the inside, there was that sumptuous step of Freddie Steward and finish against England, a couple of big try involvements against Scotland, and another assist against Wales with that kick-pass to Lowe on the edge for Jamie Osborne’s finish. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5QB3JDZJA5FNNC74G4JGI2XXPI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"VAVTJOI335E6RFFUZP6II42EZM","additional_properties":{},"content":" Indeed, as Ireland have morphed from less of a possession-based side to more of a kicking team, and with a new young outhalf, so Gibson-Park has become even more influential. Tellingly, against Wales his 14 kicks out of hand equalled Prendergast’s total.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ZCPOBQKQNA7VL5KG2ZHGGQMMY","additional_properties":{},"content":" It’s ironic to think that when Gibson-Park was starting out on his pro career with Taranaki, his first coach Colin Cooper informed him he had to kick more, to which the young scrumhalf responded: “Aw Coops, I just want to pass and run with the ball”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XBZE2H2KYVEJNEDZ4WXTXYJLJU","additional_properties":{},"content":" Not anymore, and those big exits against Wales were instrumental to Ireland turning that game around from 18-10 down in the second half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OAMYJTCOVRBPRKGME2Q6VKKOX4","additional_properties":{},"content":" Speaking on BBC Rugby Union Weekly in the aftermath of Gibson-Park’s Man of the Match display in Cardiff, the 76-times capped former Scottish flanker John Barclay, who is part of an outstanding double act with Sam Warburton, went so far as to describe the Irish scrumhalf as the second-best player in the world currently.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OIXZSVN36FDCJN5Y3M7KYRHMEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You talk about why he’s [Prendergast] so good at a young age; I think Jamison Gibson-Park is the second best player in the world, I really do. I think he’s that good.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WLZ5TEVX5BBR7B4PRBBCB22RSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They were 18-10 down with 30 minutes to play and they scored 17 unanswered points, and it wasn’t amazing rugby. It was ‘apply pressure’; it was their kicking game and you look at Jamison Gibson-Park, two or three 50 or 60 metre box kicks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E2NMOZ3THZATVIQANWDXWMHCZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Prendergast has the same. He is unbelievably talented with his skill set and all that, but you’ve got Gibson-Park making decisions inside and Jack Conan, who we’ve chatted about, and Caelan Doris, the spine of the team, and then you’ve got Bundee Aki the other side of him. The decision-making either side of him, if you’re going to go into a team and have that level of experience and understanding of how to manage a game, that’s why it looks so effortless to him [Prendergast] I think.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FJYS24EFVHSRIIYRKQ2CTBQME","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking on Off The Ball this week, Brian O’Driscoll was asked which player from the current Irish squad he’d most like to have played alongside. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WM3CZKIQJ5AYVMONE6RIHJAL7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"He picked Gibson-Park and cited Barclay’s eulogy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VVAJJ4LJDFG4NNMVKZQBDFEQGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So, he is incredibly highly thought of, not just in Ireland but outside too. He had a quiet start to the season but I think since November he has elevated his game and has been absolutely outstanding in this year’s Six Nations so far.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5RVV726DZZAVZN73WOYFEGTIDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“For me I just think what he would add to any team through any generation. He doesn’t make many mistakes. He’s a very different type of scrumhalf than Dupont. Dupont is physically super strong. He can make a bad decision but still get himself out of an arm wrestle. Against Italy he got tackled by three guys but still got the ball away to Guillard and they’re making a line break. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5YCJMSZH2NBSDOQ7XYKUKTCLVI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"P5WSEOGKERBBRPHM45IASOXE4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Not many scrumhalves have that capacity. Gibson-Park probably doesn’t but he’s brilliant on the defensive side of the game. His ability to steal the ball at a ruck; these are super clever players. So, for me, I’d probably choose him.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"U7NEZ234TFHMVPQZQSD4QDURYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"As for Dupont, he is now a sporting icon in his country since his return to Les Bleus after his post-World Cup segue into Sevens Olympics glory, something which has evidently refreshed him and, here’s a scary thought, maybe improved him as well. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KWBUNXHTFJA5LLLVOSF76MXTRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He’s also been afforded even more responsibility. Previously, the French team’s approach had been termed as ‘le jeu en dark’, with its steady stream of pick-and-jams by the forwards or one-off runners designed to wear down the opposition’s fringe defence before the ball was moved wide. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"74MLCXW4YZEBJITP4SD66WRKIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since Dupont’s return in November, he has become the conductor more than ever. He picks out forward carriers from pods of three, often in zigzag formation, to be supplemented by one of the centres.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CCDAMCZCOZA5BLDJMHKAWX3O4A","additional_properties":{},"content":" Often, a winger will hug the opposing touchline for Dupont, or his outhalf, to locate with a cross kick, and Dupont can do so with pinpoint accuracy off both his right and left boot. Or they will go wide with two or three long passes to those potent outside backs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"CR2X4XWAUZD4FM4JX3F6TQ6YEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is equally direct and requires huge work-rate from the forwards. Hence the 7-1 split on the bench. But it is more nuanced, with Dupont by some margin the primary decision-maker, even by French standards.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LE2ZYF76VBCQTFLF57UZI5RJJU","additional_properties":{},"content":" “Our offensive strategy imposes positions that mean that the scrumhalf touches the ball more than the number 10,” said Fabien Galthié. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q22PNYJ3YBEYDPLALXQCH3CT5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Antoine likes to carry the ball,” said a smiling Thomas Ramos, who moved to outhalf alongside his kindred spirit last November and again in Rome for the 73-24 win last Sunday week. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZGHF5BOO7ZGDZNNSDXMXV3TWKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We have a system where we try to go a lot through our forwards. So, we have a game that revolves a lot around our ‘9’ in particular.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ULTHG56NSZGOBIBVQXVTPVA6OA","additional_properties":{},"content":"True, Dupont was subdued against England, possibly due to the calf issue which had forced an early departure against Wales, or being partnered by the Bordeaux playmaker Matthieu Jalibert.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WDEUMUJBMVEYTEOOAVH254E3R4","additional_properties":{},"content":" But in tandem with Romain Ntamack against Wales and Ramos against Italy, Dupont has been almost unplayable. As Arnaud David wrote in Sud Ouest: “For 50 minutes against the Welsh, Antoine Dupont sometimes trivialised the exceptional”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FAYEDVC3P5A4NMBWMDYZU4GGYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":" In this Six Nations his 38 kicks out of hand are the fourth highest, and more than Gibson-Park’s 25. Among his 41 carries (bettered only by Blair Kinghorn and Gregory Alldritt), there have been three line-breaks, two tries, six try assists (the most of any player) and nine offloads (also the most).","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDO5YZ5GLVGBTCBTGEFI4BGB44","additional_properties":{},"content":" But, as Arnaud also asked in Sud Ouest, is the French team’s playing system “built too much around its captain?”","type":"text"},{"_id":"I25X4GPMNJDHJA2WQICJLKD4YI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4VU3PRY3QZC53C7ONROLHV4NQE","additional_properties":{},"content":" “I praised him in my commentary,” the former French scrumhalf Guy Accoceberry, a pundit for Radio France, told Sud Ouest following the 43-0 win over Wales. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3H2MMN7VIZADZD4YJJKWI3YRJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The French didn’t have a lot of ball to play in the first half. Antoine made the others play in a fairly minimalist way by calling on his forwards. But every time he decided to play, it resulted in a try. Or almost.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKFC4CGGCBFCLCRXGXPYTF2ZQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We were talking about it with Philippe Bernat-Salles [the former French winger],” added Accoceberry, who was part of the French 1997 Grand Slam team. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMPJEXLATZB3LBULAX76B6AQYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We have the impression of a guy who plays at international level as if he were in the schoolyard. He is the best of the best. Everything seems easy to him. We have never seen a player dominate matches like he does.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"UX3QAVWSWTRY2GS6KWJC4DYTK4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"24DM62ERM5AFBE73UVVB254TOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Then there’s Dupont’s clearly defined role in defence, where he’s afforded licence to read situations and shoot out of the line. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQULRSAD7BHRDKOEXZ6RBAQAUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If we don’t concede a point, he has a lot to do with it,” said Accoceberry.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AM5MYMYLYNAXRO4ER5JFKRNF44","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The fear is that there will be a Dupont dependency,” he acknowledges. “Antoine has superb qualities but opposing teams will adapt and target him. We can almost envisage setting up individual marking on him with one or two players. The French team must have two or three different plans. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBSLJZLGRJBBVO25THT23HK5KU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Currently, we see fewer very sharp launch plays, which were the characteristic of this team three or four years ago. There are other players with exceptional qualities. The potential of this team is a gold mine, but we really have to exploit it. Antoine is the hub but we can’t expect everything from him.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOL5NCYV7VAWXO25I4BIVNJI6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Still, if a team is going to depend overtly on one player, then Dupont is not a bad option. Or Gibson-Park for that matter. Whoever wins this title decider, the odds are that one of the world’s two best players will play a key role.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZUFCIDACPZEAJG247II53SVHLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Head-to-Head ","type":"header"},{"_id":"OFS5HFDSTNHK7M25WHVDHY57KU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jamison Gibson-Park ","type":"header"},{"_id":"DK5FB5CLBNBYDEPGDWW2T4L2SE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Place of birth</b>: Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RNETMGGVZVECLI3LNV26QYRLVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Date of birth</b>: 23rd February 1992 (age 33). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RXDHMUFNUNCYHCYTMAQVC7JR64","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Clubs/Provinces</b>: Taranaki (NPC/ITM Cup) Pl 28 (5 tries); Blues Pl 27 (2 tries); Hurricanes: Pl 13; Leinster Pl 151 (33 tries).","type":"text"},{"_id":"B2B4SRL6VREZ3LSANJESVKGKBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Test Caps</b>: 41 (7 tries).","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2JVE2CW4BBFHKUXITMGK3SUWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Height</b>: 1.75m (5ft 9in).","type":"text"},{"_id":"DPDYJIOHQNHMPHQXV6ARXHSMVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Weight</b>: 80kg (176lb; 12st 8lb)","type":"text"},{"_id":"CTL2SF674JFQXIX55WTQ3JP5HE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Antoine Dupont</b> ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NW62Y2JDVFKFNOADJO37IKZZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Place of birth</b>: Lannemezan, France","type":"text"},{"_id":"D7AXPQ6GGRCQXPK6467JO7YMSY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Date of birth</b>: 15th November 1996 (age 28)","type":"text"},{"_id":"HKH5IVDBQBF7ZB4ASHD7SUHYQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Clubs</b>: Castres Pl 56 (9 tries); Toulouse Pl 122 (62 tries).","type":"text"},{"_id":"RNM7WRHRN5CCDDA7G5JO6YPVHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Test Caps</b>: Pl 58 (15 tries).","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFGRXN7GVBGDZBFHCATRPAVURM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Height</b>: 1.74m (5ft 9in)","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJVVGRR5KNCGHGCVENDDONZK54","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Weight</b>: 85kg (187lb; 13st 5lb)","type":"text"},{"_id":"JNU6GQIBYZCJ5EODYIFKPTZRNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gerry Thornley"}},"name":"Gerry Thornley"}]},"description":{"basic":"Whoever wins this Six Nations title decider, the odds are that one of the world’s two best players will play a key role"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T09:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland v France will see mouthwatering clash between two of the best players in the world","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5J5D6GBPMNHOBL7VSUWHBNCDQU","auth":{"1":"1cc2e5572a9337470e6673272247ba0fa5d1cc9e388fc0bf07794e0ab3bc684e"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5J5D6GBPMNHOBL7VSUWHBNCDQU.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"MOBOQ6B2KJFHNBABJAZJ354EXY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":271,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/6ad7b4fb-80c0-4469-ac0b-b8241658fb90/versions/1741266612/media/6840e020bd110ac9ac752458d3343c5c_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/its-class-being-part-of-driving-the-bus-finlay-bealham-on-growing-with-ireland-and-facing-france/","content_elements":[{"_id":"VPEQVS46XBHQNGNS4FMLICHZFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Today <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/finlay-bealham/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/finlay-bealham/\">Finlay Bealham</a> is shooting the breeze and thinking out loud about his place in rugby life. The subject is how 10 became 20 and how 20 has become 50. Tomorrow’s match against France will mark the 50th cap for the Irish tighthead prop.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DRMRSWLCXBFN3KOI5WEDTN72LI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bealham stepped into the frontrow starting position the moment <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tadhg-furlong/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tadhg-furlong/\">Tadhg Furlong</a> limped home from Quinta do Lago with a calf injury back in January and he admits that his surge in numbers has taken him a little bit of getting used to. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LETMVJYLJ5BT7CUAYBNP5ZN2ZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bealham became of interest to Joe Schmidt in January 2016 when he was called up to Ireland’s squad for the Six Nations to replace the injured Marty Moore.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K73NRTGQKZEBTFOOCW4X2PD6MY","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-93329","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"PED7X4LVRZFQRGXB6GQBV5V3LM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In March of that year, he replaced Jack McGrath to make his Irish debut against Italy. Sweet, but even then his ambitions were not exactly blazing. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FAJDX4T72VHQ3GDUFHJ37W2HJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"But in this year’s championship Bealham has started at tighthead prop against England and Scotland in the opening two games and came off the bench for Tom Clarkson against Wales.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JJV7HUK3JZF7NBA4R6DXFIML5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I was thinking about this recently,” he says. “There was probably a time where I was thinking, ‘Jeez, I may only get 10 caps’. You get to 10 and then you’re like, ‘I’ll just try get to 20’, and then fast forward, on the verge of getting 50. Like I said it’s really special to see the calibre of players that have gone and got 50 themselves. To have myself getting 50 is something that I’m truly honoured to do and something I value very much.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EU5QWUJLXJE2ZFNJ35F7TJUO3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"For a lot of the time in those early years, Bealham felt that he was more on the periphery of the Irish squad than at the core. It wasn’t anything the other players did or said but a feeling within, which had as much to do with confidence, a sense of belonging and probably inexperience. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RDQ6WETZBFE57NYYOKTDPISIHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A turning point was a tour to the southern hemisphere almost three years ago, where Ireland won the series against the All Blacks. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WX6Z5QELVJD35ABS7W6TNCBTQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If I’d put my finger on it, probably around 2022, towards the back end of the Six Nations,” he says of the turning point. “I played England there. I had my parents there and that whole season, when we went to New Zealand, won that series, and to be a part of those games ... ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FNMWP3NSKFB7NIIOLCJB3ELCYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I don’t know if I’ve ever felt 100 per cent comfortable, if that’s the word. But I felt from that moment on like a real part of the group. I knew what was expected of me, what I expect of myself and how I fit into what we’re trying to do. If I had to guess, I’d say it would be around then. But you’re always evolving and trying to get better.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIA7O37AR5F53NQLYHJ3PD552E","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is a maturity to Bealham now and a greater sense of responsibility, which has come with beginning games and being involved in big matches that Ireland have won. He has also managed to stay healthy for an extended period and has faced almost all the best frontrow players in world rugby. These days he faces few surprises.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6U7N2C6PQFFPLMS7N5EBIJZ3JM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Probably up there, yeah, if I was being honest,” he says when asked whether he is now playing his best. “I’ve had some really good moments over the years. I suppose it was unfortunate for Tadhg, but it was a good opportunity for me coming into this campaign and getting good gametime. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"6F2MX3XRT5EYBCMGLGKT2NJVHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Just being in the thick of it, being part of driving the bus, in terms of the scrum stuff. Working with the likes of Ports [Andrew Porter], Sheeno [Dan Sheehan], Ro [Kelleher], the younger boys like Tom Clarkson and Jack Boyle, getting to know them. It’s been class.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LAL3GMMM2RBZBE7CY5X3WASMEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He knows this weekend will be another examination of the scrum. The French are scrum nerds and they are big. Tighthead prop Uini Atonio, hooker Petea Mauvaka and Jean-Baptiste Gros make the front row challenge one of the sub-narratives of Saturday’s match and must be an area Ireland contest strongly. Against Wales there were issues, with Porter and Clarkson each incurring two scrum penalties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7KUTBLW3RHC3KMGMKNBKFUM2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"There were a few befuddled Irish faces and shaking heads as referee Christophe Ridley called against Ireland, with the resulting scrum penalties instantly converted into an attacking Welsh lineouts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BXVFDB3NIVEDPHJDDYTG2DKVIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m focused on just doing my job,” Bealham says. “Obviously set piece is a big one, France have an unbelievable set piece. Then around the pitch they have some unbelievable forwards that are physical and then backs that can tear you to shreds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HASS7FQX3ZF2VPYXZLPGFYRY3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s being aware of what they can do, they’re world class at what they do and it’s making sure we’re all together on the same page.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"VQNYG4U3SRFULKLL4Q7E2MMP2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"His parents, Andrea and Roy, are flying in for the match from Australia. Why not for 50 caps and still scrumming down. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Johnny Watterson"}},"name":"Johnny Watterson"}]},"description":{"basic":"The prop hopes to cap a landmark appearance by helping Ireland move closer to another Six Nations win"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘It’s class being part of driving the bus’: Finlay Bealham on growing with Ireland and facing France ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"U72KGJ4ILKU4RLD7VOFQCWFZJE","auth":{"1":"1e79c93cab5cf2befe8dca99790dcf5affc20e6b1987114b9d4f6a77290730e3"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/U72KGJ4ILKU4RLD7VOFQCWFZJE.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/its-class-being-part-of-driving-the-bus-finlay-bealham-on-growing-with-ireland-and-facing-france/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"SUVTARV3D5FBBLTN6QCHTMU3FU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":299,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/82680663-cf26-4e1d-b5d1-ecc415637640/versions/1741342895/media/19443d861f8981e923518bd0925d84e8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/perennial-debate-over-ireland-no-10-jersey-set-to-run-and-run/","content_elements":[{"_id":"IE4CXAPM5NEYDDC5S2IMPJMM7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613495},"content":"It is not Sam Prendergast’s fault that the Irish outhalf position has become a lightning rod for the perceived inequalities in Irish rugby. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HC5EKPGMPJDLTOQ3WVFNDUNTM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"At 22, Prendergast is already the player who attracts the most bellyaching and resentment for wearing the number 10 shirt. Such a young age to be placed in the middle of a positional scuffle <i>and</i> a rugby culture war. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G5WRXXX7CVFOPNGQAUXAHTENKI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613496},"content":"But that is the cost, his worth questioned each time he steps on to the pitch with his critics waiting in the long grass. It should be noted that both Jack Crowley and Prendergast have said they have a very good relationship within the Irish squad.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7SIWHADDN5H45C3LGP7G5J4UYA","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-97783","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WUX7NRDCQZCXXA2TCZJKJJCJQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613497},"content":"“Jack is a great lad and a great player . . . as much as people want to think we hate each other,” said Prendergast last month.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WSUMSTFVIBCYPOK2ZNOY5OPEOM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613498},"content":"Much of the noise around selection breaks down along provincial lines with Crowley taking up a place on the replacements' bench again, having been the heir apparent following Johnny Sexton’s retirement after the last World Cup. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BQIHAV3DHZARJAXIQOHLUQFT7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Crowley has 22 Irish caps while on Saturday against France Prendergast will be winning his sixth. Still, Prendergast seems only one error away from somebody hollering for his head and sparking off another national debate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7XC63HGTQRETRFNFI6ZPIPOOCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613500},"content":"It is a precarious place for the young Munster and Leinster players to be, but if Irish history has taught us one thing it is that the number 10 jersey often comes with external division. People can debate who is the best tighthead prop, steadiest fullback or most effective openside flanker, but outhalf is the Marmite position.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XYRVRAMLOJAL5LNR5VNMCFNUKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613501},"type":"image"},{"_id":"3COG6LHYENBB5B5JO4L6KIDPCA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613502},"content":"It is the position that sees most ball, makes most calls and executes the plays; marshals other players, decides strategy on the run, kicks goals and is central to how the team performs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7LW35QMZRDJTFUYGPR2CFLYZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"If the Aviva Stadium is a stage and the 15 Irish players are performers, the outhalf position has its own spotlight and often its own storyline.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BMNQADRFVJDGRPPQAAVWPBDTJQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613503},"content":"It is also the place where strong preferences for one or other player reside, and where battle lines are drawn.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N4R6G663FNHDDKIMUYVZ2NYPWI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613504},"content":"Be sure that as soon as the last note of Ireland’s Call floats high above Sandymount village, there will be those whose joy will know no bounds if Prendergast is run over by Gregory Alldritt in the first minute of play, who will toast him for missing a tackle or punting the ball out into the West Stand on the full with a spiral kick.","type":"text"},{"_id":"STWDVAYHRFHETFX7M5P57YDJHU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613505},"content":"There will be those who will prefer to see the exposition of his mistakes and weakness more than his natural gifts and stellar potential flourishing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CABNPSSQBHCLHNOE4YU6U6NGU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613506},"type":"image"},{"_id":"7ZLTPBUY5FB3LOSIW6QEKX334I","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613507},"content":"The Ireland 10 position has always been one that invites conflict and personality clashes. As far back as 1979 Ollie Campbell and then European Player of The Year and Rugby Writers’ Player of the Year Tony Ward boarded a plane for Australia.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CTTXA4GWQFGO7O72B2ZHVVGLZI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613508},"content":"The fizz and sparkle of Ward was overlooked by the Irish selectors and Campbell, with one cap prior to the tour, was given the shirt as Ireland went on to win the series 2-0. But the drama around Campbell’s elevation and Ward’s demotion consumed as much attention as the tour success.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JTUPJFSI4RGEJCZKMMEG3DXDDU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613509},"content":"David Humphreys and Eric Elwood crossed paths before Humphreys and Ronan O’Gara engaged in a polite but sustained rivalry, one that strained under ambition. Again people were drawn into picking their preferred Ulster man or Munster man.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4U4562EBQFF3REX22QEJHSEFYM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613510},"content":"Johnny Sexton and O’Gara went at it like two middleweights going toe to toe, the younger Sexton a compelling and fiery personality against a battle-scarred Munster titan in another Munster/Leinster arm wrestle","type":"text"},{"_id":"KAH4TROSPBEDTO3IJJJ6HCETQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613511},"content":"Then this week as national contracts were being renewed, Leinster pushed their number out to 11 centrally contracted players. Connacht had two in Mack Hansen and Bundee Aki, Munster one in Tadhg Beirne and Ulster none. Neither Prendergast nor Crowley are among them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XHORD4ZYINBSVBNWTKDBXV5LHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613512},"type":"image"},{"_id":"7ZB7H3DGWJHC7FLMDEJHVU55XY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613513},"content":"Still, the drift in thinking towards Leinster being the favoured province with an unfair advantage over the others doesn’t have to be true or false for fault lines to begin to show, and for people to take a partisan position on what player should wear the Irish 10 shirt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TDNZFUAPVBHLJJ2VLIG2A5VGXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613514},"content":"The subject was aired in 2021, when former Ulster coach Dan McFarland switched off the diplomacy filter in his chatter after he was told about Leo Cullen’s lack of props and outhalves for an upcoming match.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QTYV7B5YXRDK5OGRJ7CXCBALFY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613515},"content":"“Do I feel sorry for Leo? Are you joking!” said McFarland “He is sat in among 10 or 12 of the wealthiest schools in the country, plying people from rich families through those schools and churning out bursaries to the best prospects. Do I feel sorry for him? That’s hilarious.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XTAQA4NZMVCB7LHXRZQJDEHGC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613516},"content":"The leeching out into the public arena of a perceived bias has entered the outhalf debate, at least on social media, with Prendergast supporters staunchly Leinster and Crowley’s loyally Munster. It adds to the edge in selection and magnifies the performance of both players.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGOBNG5KOJCHHPDQPVBOTCU3FM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613517},"content":"The starter in recent games has been Prendergast and in some people’s heads the matter is settled. However, in many others, it is not.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LAQ6B26QBVHYPKN34NIY2H3EKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292613518},"content":"The reality is that the rivalry and debate around the two competing for one position has become enthralling and cut-throat. The great cruelty is that while the rivalry may not be what every coaching team wants, it is probably what every coaching team needs.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Johnny Watterson"}},"name":"Johnny Watterson"}]},"description":{"basic":"Both outhalves have their loyal backers but Ireland are fortunate to have the pair to choose from"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Sam Prendergast and Jack Crowley are at the centre of a rugby culture war","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"UBFQLEHYUNHWPBUIQTH2KE6KPM","auth":{"1":"46fc37c2a10b37685e0ba7e1ff88e3109b3ffc8ab49dc61920674b954e9b64cc"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/UBFQLEHYUNHWPBUIQTH2KE6KPM.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/perennial-debate-over-ireland-no-10-jersey-set-to-run-and-run/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"LFLOZGDRHJD3HKZTQ5XMPXAFWQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":287,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/32de5cda-020b-4b8e-9f1e-cc1d1c5bdf1f/versions/1741288374/media/59535d0bfa1fd16691982db657fcdf22_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/managers-to-the-fore-in-battling-for-the-league-of-ireland/","content_elements":[{"_id":"SLJIG55J6RBQDD6MESR4ZCT6V4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542632},"content":"In this bizarre moment in time when dirty laundry is being aired at press conferences, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/2025/02/13/the-gaffers-can-damien-duff-remain-top-dog-as-new-league-of-ireland-season-begins/\" target=\"_blank\">the League of Ireland managers</a> have held their own. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ABQ6NHK63NH4ZOJ5RFC2HONNMQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542633},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/2025/02/21/stephen-bradley-knew-what-he-was-doing-with-his-outburst-against-heimir-hallgrimsson/\" target=\"_blank\">Stephen Bradley got the ball rolling</a> by lambasting Republic of Ireland coach Heimir Hallgrímsson for suggesting that Shamrock Rovers players have a better chance of being capped if playing at a foreign club.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MXUTOQ6PQRGBXISNS24F2JZSAY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542634},"content":"Ian Harte presumably regrets his recent interview with a betting website when he claimed that Irish clubs are pricing teenagers out of the English market. Harte also said that Stephen Kenny has “found his level” at St Patrick’s Athletic.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GBHUE5XVXFC2TNRNYUCE23R26I","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542635},"content":"In response, Kenny called him an “empty vessel” and Bradley noted that his “facts” were “completely false.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"D7OOA2CUFFFLRHUGEKWSPAPJ74","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542636},"content":"The betting website subsequently removed Harte’s claim that Rovers scared off Premier League clubs with the asking price for Justin Ferizaj.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4DXIAFI4JJGPPBJ2S3ARALX7JA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542637},"content":"There could be a lesson here for the next League of Ireland sceptic<i> </i>to consider before imparting a back-handed compliment or comments that do not stand up to scrutiny.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N6YG2ASRG5GMDAGGDMULLIKZMQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542638},"content":"As the GAA and rugby media continually complain about controlled access to managers and star athletes, the League of Ireland offers the antithesis to bland quotes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X6TZSTRCTFAKFFX4UB77EXNHVY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542639},"content":"Last Monday, Cork City’s Tim Clancy accused referee Damien MacGraith of egomania. It seemed apt that Clancy’s pitchside interview on Virgin was almost drowned out by the <a href=\"https://x.com/VMSportIE/status/1896684221801935290\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https://x.com/VMSportIE/status/1896684221801935290\">Kaiser Chiefs ‘I Predict a Riot’.</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHWD22C37VAH5GMRTXLWNKKPWE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542640},"content":"It may be boom time for soundbites but Bradley also understands the art of diplomacy, especially when it comes to convincing the Government to stump up €8-10 million annually to fund club academies and create a sustainable industry similar to how <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/2024/01/10/horse-racing-ireland-welcomes-government-review-of-prize-money-policy/\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/2024/01/10/horse-racing-ireland-welcomes-government-review-of-prize-money-policy/\">Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael have propped up horse and greyhound racing since 2001.</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"6PSIWRJXMJC65H2OSC7B6MN6YA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542641},"content":"Minister for Sport Patrick O’Donovan’s recent comments about being too “preoccupied with other things” to focus on League of Ireland academies does not chime with his predecessor Thomas Byrne’s pre-election assurances.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LUHBYI5HM5EUTFXYMSZIRR3B34","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542642},"content":"“It’s better to ask in a year or definitely after six months,” said O’Donovan, “to see how we are getting on . . .”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CNASU5762VHZ3GFJKT6VLASYHY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542643},"content":"Ministers come and go. Byrne has been redirected to European Affairs and Defence so the FAI must do business with O’Donovan, who previously described <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/news/ireland/irish-news/former-sports-minister-defends-praising-john-delaney-1.3859947\" target=\"_blank\">John Delaney as “a great man to bring out the chequebook”</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KYIRGY6M65GLPH5BQZ4BTDIR4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542644},"content":"At least he knows the recent history of Irish football having juggled the sport and tourism portfolios as a junior minister in 2016.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FNBDLDQKO5HI3F6R5QBRO6JCPY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542645},"content":"“We can’t allow it to be pushed down the road for another year,” said Bradley this week, “it is so important for our academies that we have investment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RYUTVCU22RC4ZDG4DNA6UWFVHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542646},"content":"“We have to keep banging the drum and doing the right things. And have open dialogue with politicians and with decisions makers to let them see how important investment is for the league and every club academy. That is definitely needed to grow the industry in this country and help bring through more Michaels and Victors. Because that is our future.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZ5NXPKPFZGCRIQNLZCZTHFURI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542647},"content":"Michael being Michael Noonan and Victor being Victor Ozhianvuna, a pair of 16-year-olds at Rovers who in any other era would have moved to a Premier League academy by now.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FB3USZP7SVDIDDKTSYZS4YMGFI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542648},"content":"“The landscape of football has changed for us over the last 10, 15 years,” Bradley explained. “Brexit changed it, for the better I feel for this country, but we’ve got to take ownership of that. Players need a serious option to stay here. We need investment for that to happen.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"P63LS3LXAUVLRTLBKRLODLNEJM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542649},"type":"image"},{"_id":"IOZKRUZPUVD3ZMKLWACNEBCUBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542651},"content":"The FAI would be well advised to bring Stephen Bradley to future meetings with the Minister. Rovers deserve credit for convincing the families of Noonan and Ozhianvuna to ensure the players stay put until they turn 18 when others like Ferizaj, Naj Razi and Kevin Zefi signed with Italian clubs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XOYSOVITXJBY5P57ZDWQB4SQHA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542652},"content":"The association should be commended for funnelling some of the €700,000 previously used for the defunct Emerging Talent Programme to increase the coaching time of the most talented 14- 17-year-olds in the country. School holidays will be used to help 250 teenagers catch up with UK and European club academies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B7BVMNRDSZBUFE4G6JGGKQXKI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542653},"content":"The sought-after Government funds would render this latest FAI project unnecessary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4PV2C4PGYVABPKR2IFNXZP44I4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Up Next</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"EUSF33H6W5AIDE3JVXJ5U5CZ24","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542655},"content":"Entering round five, Waterford are top of the Premier Division table with Bohemians manager Alan Reynolds hoping that the risky signing of Lys Mousset will start to pay off on Friday night at the Regional Sports Centre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XQUTN2UAGBFT7LX5LV3KOUO7KM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542656},"content":"The former France under-21 striker has clocked 218 minutes for Bohs, taking just three shots with only four of his 70 touches in the opposition box. So far, Mousset has zero goals and zero assists.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W3EGFJPHIVHOXPZTMHH4B57KK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542657},"content":"In contrast, Waterford’s veteran finisher Pádraig Amond has one goal and one assist with three of seven shots on target and 16 of his 124 touches coming in the box.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7KY3HLGBIFH6XHIJOVVDVDEEIA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741292542658},"content":"Aidan Keena leads the scoring charts with five in four starts for St Pat’s with nine of 16 shots on target and 20 of his 101 touches happening in the red zone.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gavin Cummiskey"}},"name":"Gavin Cummiskey"}]},"description":{"basic":"Stephen Bradley insists now is the time for the necessary Government investment in the domestic game"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"League of Ireland managers come to the fore in banging financial drum for domestic game","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"D7ZAXNEZ6HUDT7EJJTZ5NESHYI","auth":{"1":"cc2cf1413a4ecd2f34453fa85060f123941d7fbebe7b84fd74cc17ec97be6f26"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/D7ZAXNEZ6HUDT7EJJTZ5NESHYI.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/managers-to-the-fore-in-battling-for-the-league-of-ireland/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"743UCWT4NFFFDM53M37ZMAUW5I","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":206,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/69cd83cf-820d-476b-a431-15db9ef69e27/versions/1741302631/media/f24c84614ee833b28b07b2f87ff1cb18_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/06/shane-lowry-impresses-to-sit-just-off-lead-despite-difficult-conditions-at-bay-hill/","content_elements":[{"_id":"J7NRHKY6KNE6NDYFF3CURSAHEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\">Shane Lowry</a>’s body language told the tale. The twirl of the club after impact, the wince on the occasional mishit, but more often a smile breaking out: for, in opening with a three-under-par 69 in tough conditions at Bay Hill Country Club in Orlando, the Offaly man played his way into contention in the Arnold Palmer Invitational, one of the select $20 million signature events on the PGA Tour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IO7TVUMW25H6FLIVVTDPMDO5YM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry’s opening round left him in tied-second, two shots behind Wyndham Clark, the 2023 US Open champion, who birdied the 18th for a 67, while <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> – who played alongside Lowry in difficult, windy conditions on a firm course – signed for a 70, in tied-sixth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ER6HKZTRURABFMDXZ42EYCVZTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The two amigos moved in tandem around Arnie’s Place, both moving into challenging conditions. Just five weeks ago, the pair had battled it out down the stretch in the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am where McIlroy claimed the title and Lowry the runners-up spot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6SKOHA2NCVBLTFBMWK74C33QLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Again, both continued that form on a challenging course. As Lowry admitted of sitting in the locker room ahead of his warm-up and the round itself, “I wasn’t looking forward to it too much, the conditions were really tough.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZGMG2PYESBAXXJ34QO7HBAEQS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yet, when the questions were asked, Lowry had most of the answers. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MQ2UYXNYHZCABLW26PASSHGBZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A round that featured an eagle, three birdies and two bogeys moved Lowry, the world number 17, into a strong challenging position after day one. The eagle came on the Par 5 16th where his tee shot finished marginally off the fairway in the first cut and he then hit a wonderful approach shot from 195 yards, over the trees, to seven feet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2WNSLTNJ3ZET7NKFZPXHB2BXZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry finished third in this tournament last year, behind Scottie Scheffler, at a time when he needed a sponsor’s exemption. This time, he is fully exempt into all the signature events and playing like a man on a mission to add to his tally of career titles. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"43JWL3JTF5DU3BTYDJEUIJKF7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"With a new Srixon driver in the bag – he had 15 of them on the range pre-tournament – Lowry explained of the “tinkering” he has been undertaking:","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LDU4DU6KRHFPJQJT7IY2RDZ7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think there’s something wrong with the driver I was using last week (at the Cognizant) for a few days. I used something different on Sunday and I used something different again today. So I don’t have a hundred per cent trust in that yet, but I did hit some really nice drives there towards the end, apart from 18. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3SGDAYSTVHY7MVG64PTKMOEVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m pretty happy with what I have in the bag, I just need to be able to stand up on holes like 18 and trust myself to start it down the left and commit to that shot. As the week goes on hopefully I’ll do that and, yeah, you never know where it will leave me!”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NKDDVFP6TBHPTD6QSEWPKV66JM","additional_properties":{},"content":"For McIlroy, like Lowry, a closing bogey on the 18th provided a disappointing finish. In touching on the mindset the two friends are required to adopt when paired together in tournament play, McIlroy observed: “I think we both have to make a conscious effort to not make it too comfortable. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PILDIYQLJJAPBFN6PS7V7FN2CY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s like if you’re too relaxed, that’s not a good thing either. So we try to treat it as if it’s just any other round. I certainly talk to him more than I talk to some other guys out there, but you still have to try to concentrate, and especially on a day like today when it was so tough.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKKRQHXTNNG3DPVEBWPJJNSTTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, in the Puerto Rico Open, also on the PGA Tour, Dubliner Max Kennedy – playing on a sponsor’s invite – shot an opening round of five-under-par 67 to lie in tied-20th of a first round incomplete due to fading light after a number of weather interruptions.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Offaly man in joint second after day one, with Rory McIlroy three shots further back in tied-sixth"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T23:05:26.656Z","headlines":{"basic":"Shane Lowry impresses to sit just off lead despite difficult conditions at Bay Hill","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"C645ZMV3ZEZ3IQQVE7JGY56UXE","auth":{"1":"377eb22ab5efdd216f4a2167b2e27347e415a80fa52d836e08dab8714994e76d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/C645ZMV3ZEZ3IQQVE7JGY56UXE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/06/shane-lowry-impresses-to-sit-just-off-lead-despite-difficult-conditions-at-bay-hill/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"QKBTIPRICJBA3PKLBCFXEZENLY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":322,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/04cc854d-5089-48d9-ba1f-0e94708c6a6b/versions/1741299252/media/db4a1e08245251f3f9dc402bc81dad74_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/06/sharlene-mawdsleys-searing-anchor-leg-still-leaves-ireland-short-of-a-mixed-relay-medal-at-the-european-indoors/","content_elements":[{"_id":"2OCECLFP7VFKXILAHAYCWZUUWU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685104},"content":"It felt as if the Irish medal prospects had truly changed once <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sharlene-mawdsley/\" target=\"_blank\">Sharlene Mawdsley</a> committed to the mixed 4x400m relay on the opening night of the European Indoor Championships, but her searing anchor leg wasn’t enough to bring them within reach of the podium in a six-team final.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LY6LV4GGNFUPKCT4VFGZMGKAM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685105},"content":"With vast tracts of the sold-out Omnisport Arena in Apeldoorn cheering wildly for the home favourites, the Dutch quartet duly delivered gold, anchored once again by their superstar Femke Bol, the Irish finishing in fifth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZAHXORCWRHDVAUAMT5PV3XSRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685106},"content":"Mawdsley was the only member of the Irish quartet which won European outdoor gold in Rome last June to take part, the Tipperary athlete also qualified for individual 400m heats on Friday morning. Despite running the fastest fourth-leg split of the lot, her 49.93 seconds notably faster than Bol’s 50.33, Mawdsley was simply too far adrift and left with too much to do to make any impression on the leaders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XEBPTT57NJFMLEMLC4P6QFJDJE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685107},"content":"The Dutch won in 3:15.63, ahead of Belgium (3:16.19) and Great Britain (3:16.49), Mawdsley closing fast to finish in 3:17.63, within half a second of Spain.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KT7DJBNYIFB55EV26GQT5D7QJM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685108},"content":"“That first lap, I wanted to try close that gap, but I was probably a bit ambitious,” said Mawdsley, who took over the baton in sixth from Marcus Lawler. “Because when that home straight came, as short as it is, I did tie up a bit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDGGFU5ULZFRFN5BLZLM6KYAWM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685109},"content":"“But I gave it my best shot, it was a challenge to come out here today, I’m out again tomorrow morning, but I’m proud of this team. People might say ‘Why did she do the mixed relay’, that will hinder me, or not be the best for my individual tomorrow ... but we did come fifth in Europe this time round, it’s nothing to be frowned upon, we’re still proud of that performance.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDHCNIDVWZE5VERLC3WQXL6UJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685110},"content":"There was no Rhasidat Adeleke this time, her focus firmly on the summer ahead. Things started positively when 17-year-old Conor Kelly ran a superb opening 200m, only to lose some ground at the break, before dropped back to sixth. Phil Healy, running her fifth consecutive European Indoors, briefly moved Ireland up to fifth, before Lawler also tried in vain to make up some real ground.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSGJ4UAN3NHSVAS4AKZNOIRF74","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685111},"content":"It made for a mixed night for the Irish, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sarah-lavin/\" target=\"_blank\">Sarah Lavin</a> producing the highlight with her cool and confident victory in her heat of the 60m hurdles, the Limerick athlete also clocking a season best of 7.93 seconds – ahead of Laeticia Bapte from France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5QGAJ7265ABXAQBQO3MENXZNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685112},"content":"Lavin has made the European and World Indoor finals over the previous two years, and this performance puts her among the medal contenders, once she can get through the semi-finals.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAD6FGW555AS3IBRQ6ITHVUMOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685113},"content":"“Yeah, a good run, and huge credit to everyone behind me, because I haven’t had the easiest few weeks, to be honest,” said Lavin, who came through in the second half of the race, and clearly in front coming off the fifth and final hurdle. “Obviously I wanted to put out that performance, but I will have to go quicker in the next round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D35FGJO7IJHVHDFZUJHTL7NNSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685114},"content":"“I know I opened well this season, but I had a tricky time after that, so I’m happy. I love championships, love how immersive they are. There’s only a few of them a year and I love to maximise them. There’s no time to think in races like that, but I know that’s in me, and hopefully more to come.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTGWU2JAH5G75HERICAFHJ6ETQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685115},"content":"Earlier, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cathal-doyle/\" target=\"_blank\">Cathal Doyle</a> endured a tactical nightmare in his heat of the 1,500m, allowing himself to make some minor contact with Jakob Ingebrigtsen just as the race was hotting up after 900m and coming out the worse for it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKMCLUKXVJAQ3A5FALBKS3D5TI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685116},"content":"Athletics Ireland did later submit an appeal, claiming Doyle was impeded, but that was dismissed by the track judges. Once Ingebrigtsen came through in the inside, Doyle appeared to lose focus, dropped his head before losing his stride, and suddenly his race was over.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XSTHEY2GQNDINIFMR5CI5RIUEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685117},"content":"“I just got clipped a little bit, shoved around a bit,” he said. “And by the time I got my feet back together, it took me five or six steps, everyone had gone by me, and you’re not going to make it back. Once that happened it was game over, I’m raging. It was probably bound to happen, you’re obviously just hoping it’s not going to be me. If I got knocked out, and knew I tried my best, I could live with that. But I didn’t really get a chance, and that’s disappointing.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2GCKPEUIBG3XPCPKBBSVC4JGU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685118},"content":"Ingebrigtsen, chasing a third 1,500m/3,000m double, took the win in 3:37.49, Doyle jogging home in ninth and last in 3:53.33.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S7DD5H3ESVA67PECDUUG6ABGDQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741298491462},"content":"Mark English is among those in action on Friday, the only one on the team who has won medals at this level before, 800m silver in 2015 and bronze in 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K6Z3GOOHYJFKDBSCEY5CGFD6F4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741298491463},"content":"Irish in action: Friday schedule (all times Irish)","type":"header"},{"_id":"K65UX6CZBFA2LL72KQA45QLMMM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685120},"content":"<b>10:05am</b>: Mark English, Cian McPhillips: Men’s 800m – Round one","type":"text"},{"_id":"EKADTLNEQ5G4POTJ4BKDFER4TQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685121},"content":"<b>10:55am</b>: Sharlene Mawdsley, Lauren Cadden, Rachel McCann: Women’s 400m – Round one","type":"text"},{"_id":"ROY5WIOXVVFHZNDXOPONTFM54I","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685122},"content":"<b>12:45pm</b>: Sarah Lavin – Women’s 60m Hurdles – Semi-final","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FVU2CRO5JF4LFMLQATZUTWDKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741298491467},"content":"<b>6:58pm</b>: Women’s 400m – Semi-final","type":"text"},{"_id":"U7QWQBDHNFGGLBJOBOO6S4ZD2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685124},"content":"<b>8:15pm</b>: Men’s 1,500m – Final","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZW7NPC5SI5BMTK5TA5IQAYJGIU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685125},"content":"<b>8:43pm</b>: Women’s 60m Hurdles – Final","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian 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issue of where the Ulster first-round match between Antrim and All-Ireland champions <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/armagh-gaa/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/armagh-gaa/\">Armagh </a>will take place became embroiled in further controversy on Thursday night when the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) released a statement backing Antrim’s right to play the fixture at their home venue of Corrigan Park.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BM5LOM4AHVDPHI4E6XAR56XWYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier, in the afternoon, the Ulster Council had taken the decision to stage the match at Páirc Esler in Newry on Saturday April 12th with a 7pm throw-in, adding: “The complete 2025 Ulster senior football championship programme, including throw-in times and television schedules, will be finalised in the near future.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3WOHKPKWOND7VHYNLP5LSFSWZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Antrim had been drawn at home but their Corrigan Park venue was deemed too small by the council last month.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IALHOZ3KSJAFBHGRMLF43LI4G4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The minimum number of tickets required to accommodate this fixture (including, players charter, match officials, multi-sponsors, media, season tickets etc) will exceed the venue capacity,” the Ulster Council said in a statement at the time but deferred making an immediate decision on the fixture.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IVDPG522GFDKFPBILZZWP6LWPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"There followed protests in Antrim among players and management with suggestions that they would refuse to play the match anywhere except their home ground. Despite discussions, the final decision was taken on Thursday afternoon by the province’s Competitions Control Committee.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWVSEWSA3VA55CZUVD6ZTDYNGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In reaching this decision,” according to a statement issued, “the committee sympathised with Antrim GAA’s situation, which re-iterates the need for Casement Park to be redeveloped as a matter of urgency.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASPNENDUMRFQRNYRZL4I6EOKPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Later however the GPA in response, said that it “stands fully behind the Antrim senior football squad’s position that their Ulster championship opening round fixture against Armagh must be played at their designated home ground.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NCJDSVJJE5A2JDFNV5UDTGCVYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The GPA has spoken to representatives of both the Antrim and Armagh squads this evening and has made this position clear. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZNLOY4DQCRGOJKGMMUNYPCP3EM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We acknowledge Corrigan Park will not accommodate all Antrim and Armagh supporters but the integrity of the competition and the fundamental principle of home advantage take precedence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3MUSNICIJHTHOWV42ROFC6G24","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Financial and logistical concerns should not be prioritised over sporting fairness. We urge Ulster GAA to immediately reconsider their decision.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"O32YB7HLSFB73JPKPBSR6FZFP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Included in the GPA release was a statement from the Antrim footballers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZGSN5KX5VCQPKE47DOP24K7XU","additional_properties":{},"content":" “We have worked too hard to earn this game at Corrigan Park and that is where we will be. We will not concede our home advantage as it is our right as players and as a county. Corrigan Park is our home and we expect to play there as originally scheduled.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Seán Moran"}},"name":"Seán Moran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Corrigan Park in Belfast deemed too small to host meeting with All-Ireland champions"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T21:45:34.835Z","headlines":{"basic":"Antrim footballers refuse to play ‘home’ Armagh fixture in Newry ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"PHHGYTFBGE2XKC7CCPO54HGBJE","auth":{"1":"6cdbe110ff1d6ab7c59319adbd8032056fac8decfcc56a2f971107118b33442c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/PHHGYTFBGE2XKC7CCPO54HGBJE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/06/antrims-ulster-championship-clash-with-armagh-moved-to-newry/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"PBID2HOWE5F3DO3C2V5LOMTBIA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":260,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0acc2ce4-1d4f-41a2-b0bb-0f84e4712145/versions/1741294103/media/9605fb02c50001076f5fc5022290fb4a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/06/troy-parrott-gives-inspired-display-as-az-take-advantage-of-abject-tottenham/","content_elements":[{"_id":"PQMARQ5MKZGE5HZDSC3JZH53IY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Europa League Last 16, first leg: AZ Alkmaar (Bergvall 18og) Tottenham Hotspur 0</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"QUN5DBJICZGIBBKRDNYGQGVAAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"If Ange Postecoglou was hoping that things may be different for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/tottenham-hotspur\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/tottenham-hotspur\">Tottenham </a>in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/europa-league\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/europa-league\">Europa League</a> then he was sadly mistaken. An abject display in which his side fell behind to an early own goal from the unfortunate Lucas Bergvall and then failed to lay a glove on AZ Alkmaar means the Australian’s chances of maintaining the record of winning a trophy in his second season at every club he has managed now rest on next week’s second leg.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7BVBCDSXOBGDLBL7Y7GATIJLGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The home side – who are known as the cheese farmers – could have been out of sight after repeatedly finding holes in the Spurs defence had it not been for two excellent saves from Guglielmo Vicario, including one to deny Tottenham academy graduate <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/troy-parrott\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/troy-parrott\">Troy Parrott</a> in the first half. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZFROSGLZFHMFKFRZOX4CGSJOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Even though they have not reached the quarter-finals of this competition in five attempts since 2013, Postecoglou said beforehand that his players sensed an opportunity to win it now that some of his players are back from injury. But the sight of Tottenham’s record signing, Dominic Solanke, limping off late with a suspected back problem on his return from seven weeks out with a knee injury made it an even more disastrous evening for the head coach.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5PKQMQUV4REIBMYQ5TJHQMZMOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Postecoglou had seemed encouraged by the prospect of welcoming back Solanke and the defenders Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven after their spells on the sidelines. But he and the 950 away fans who made the trip will have had their enthusiasm diminished having seen Mathys Tel once again fail to make an impression up front and be removed at half-time as Spurs struggled badly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HDAGQDBQJFCK3JSCQD4CT5BPUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Liverpool’s Arne Slot cut his teeth as manager of AZ before moving on to Feyenoord – following in the footsteps of Louis van Gaal and Dick Advocaat. The club up the road from Amsterdam have a decent pedigree in this competition having reached the semi-finals in 2023. Maarten Martens’ side was packed with players who helped them to win Uefa’s Youth League that year, although they were missing playmaker Sven Mijnans and Ruben van Bommel – son of the former Netherlands captain Mark.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3PEXUKUXDVFUZPLL2HZUZFMCSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"AZ’s current youth team dumped Real Madrid out of the same competition on Wednesday and the senior side have a formidable record in their compact home ground, having beaten Galatasaray 4-1 in Alkmaar in the previous round. Roared on by a boisterous crowd, Ernest Poku helped set the tone as he immediately caused Djed Spence problems down the left flank. The breakthrough came from a corner when Parrott volleyed the ball back in the general direction of the goal and it took a wicked slice as Bergvall attempted to clear before looping over the helpless Vicario. The stadium announcer initially gave the goal to Parrott, who looked like a man on a mission against his former club.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OWMT7DUOJHEUBUKC5LD3P2WOUU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"H4MJHADB2JEAHEFXX46OWQBDUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tottenham struggled to get to grips with a bumpy surface and looked vulnerable whenever they lost the ball to a midfield being patrolled by veteran Jordie Clasie, once of Southampton. Son Heung-min was guilty of not tracking Denso Kasius when he played in Parrott for a golden opportunity to double AZ’s lead but the Republic of Ireland striker could not find a way past Vicario. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCOXTXPFW5CTFHWAOWSKARKVPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite dominating possession, Spurs finally had an effort worthy of note when Brennan Johnson fired over from distance five minutes before half-time. They somehow survived a goalmouth scramble from another corner when Parrot and Poku had been allowed acres of space in the buildup. Something clearly needed to change.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJPDFNERIJHCFBVZJ7JDLKEF4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Postecoglou decided to bring on Wilson Odobert for Tel and move Son into the centre, with Bergvall coming close to making amends after a driving run that ended with him curling a shot just wide of the post. AZ continued to look dangerous and it needed a full stretch save from Vicario to keep out Poku’s drive after a clever flick from Parrott. Rodrigo Bentancur did not help Postecoglou’s mood when he was booked for a late challenge that will rule him out of next week’s second leg.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GG5OXZXSQJDZPPHKVOD6CVC2BE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Solanke, Pedro Porro and Pape Sarr were summoned from the bench, with the disappointing James Maddison one of those to make way. It did not seem to make much of a difference as Tottenham continued to look ineffective. Parrott was given a standing ovation when he was taken off with 10 minutes to go and AZ’s only regret will be that they could not find a second goal their superiority deserved.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M565V4DGOZGVTA5PZQFEGIWSP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Postecoglou, the pressure is only mounting and he will need to find some answers if Spurs are not going to finish yet another season empty-handed.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ed Aarons at AZ Stadion"}]},"description":{"basic":"Striker denied goal against his old side by brilliant save, but plays vital role in winner"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T20:43:19.208Z","headlines":{"basic":"Troy Parrott gives inspired display as AZ take advantage of abject Tottenham","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2USFNCHYDGNXKAQLM2IUPODW54","auth":{"1":"913028c24a98ebbc13d76a7c04f04982101a2649479180c1d0d64d9a6fd43345"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2USFNCHYDGNXKAQLM2IUPODW54.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/06/troy-parrott-gives-inspired-display-as-az-take-advantage-of-abject-tottenham/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"AM462EGQLJBPNA62KMQ752UQJY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":349,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/e8ee9575-f81a-4f72-ae2f-84588e1e18b7/versions/1741292822/media/fcdf772b6ff79c8db35078d3c8b27d36_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/06/joshua-zirkzee-helps-manchester-united-earn-hard-fought-draw-at-sociedad/","content_elements":[{"_id":"TCHDCUJO3ZH4VCWEN6XS37MR4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Europa League Last 16, first leg: Real Sociedad 1 (Oyarzabal 70 pen) Manchester United 1 (Zirkzee 57) </b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"R7BQM7HP5BEQNBL3IRDUGFSE6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the end, two outstretched hands were decisive. The first, from Bruno Fernandes, probably denied Manchester United a victory; the second, from André Onana, definitely denied Real Sociedad one. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EQPR4ICBMNBRLDTMU7A2POVQFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"After a first half low on quality, Manchester United gave themselves a first-leg lead against Real Sociedad when Joshua Zirkee guided a side-footed shot beyond Alex Remiro that had appeared to set them up not just for a win but potentially one big enough to virtually see them through. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QNKCFDXYJHZRCQKATTILXUZ6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"But an eagle eye and a video replay gave Real a penalty that allowed them to draw level and in the very last minute, they almost added a second.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGRCUAPIDJFSZKVYL2YOAVEB3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ultimately, a 1-1 draw is not a bad result for United to take from a night when they did not always impress, but it will have frustrated them and it offered little evidence of them having overcome their most pressing problems. Instead it revealed some of the flaws, epecially in the first half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OY2M3P2V4JFMZDG37DCOIQ6K2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The game began with United’s players running into the left corner and waiting for a long, largely aimless punt in their rough direction, and for much of the opening period that felt like it had set the tone a little. More, certainly, than Onana’s neat little drag back to escape Mikel Oyarzabal a few seconds later. United’s first shot was a slightly scuffed effort from Alejandro Garnacho after 10 minutes. Soon after that, Fernandes looked up, appealed for some movement and struck a long diagonal out of play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NH74COEYK5HWZHASSTHILJ5LHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The game was slow and cautious and not particularly precise. Real Sociedad had more of the ball, which United didn’t seem to mind; not least as the game only really accelerated when Take Kubo took possession and those were only fleeting glimpses. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VTK66G6R5FH4HKHEGIQIHLUPGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Beñat Turrientes came inside and took aim, he slipped and the shot dribbled apologetically wide. At which point, the referee, Ivan Kruzliak, pointed at his watch and told Onana to hurry up. They had been playing only 18 minutes, and this already felt like it was dragging.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QEU7L56BCNGYHMDJWIUFCSIMZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"That Real Sociedad had more of the ball did at least offer United the space to run into and Noussair Mazraoui released Diogo Dalot up the right. Rasmus Højlund was screaming for it, first time, inside the area but instead Dalot slowed, turned back and went to Garnacho instead. Crowded out now, the space closed, the ball was eventually worked to Patrick Dorgu who sliced well over. Højlund made his displeasure very visible. The next time Dalot had it, he gave it away, and immediately after that so did Dorgu.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4EF7S6PX63LECAXW2QWUWIVMZQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"B4WYMW5VKJBP5FR4ONLIIGT7PQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Half an hour had gone and Real Sociedad’s fans start singing. Because, well, someone might as well try to make this fun. United’s fans joined in. “Hello, hello,” they began. Put a question mark at the end of that and it would be pretty appropriate. Was there anybody out there? Not really. Only, that was when the chance came. A superb pass released Dalot and he pulled it back for Fernandes, by the penalty spot. His shot was blocked by Aritz Elustondo, Zirkee’s first follow up hit Remiro’s legs and his second sliced wide, something a little comic in how it had all unravelled.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TDNN4RVKVGPDIXWOWNCRLX63U","additional_properties":{},"content":"What was it Ruben Amorim had said about United’s difficulties scoring? “There are things that are hard to explain. Sometimes it’s luck.” Sometimes it is; other times, though, it is just not that good. When Fernandez lifted a lovely ball into the area and Dalot got behind the defence, the contact on the header was not clean and it dropped harmlessly into Remiro’s arms. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G2ED6TRT6BA57ETXW2AHYYALBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"United were, though, starting to get chances and they became clearer and more frequent as the second half began, red shirts beginning to stream through the middle of the pitch. The goal was not far away.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ISR5G45R3JHDPHYTVN3DZ3MHWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"A smart pass from Fernandes and a neat flick from Zirkzee set up Dorgu to drive the ball right the way across the six-yard box, through four men, Højlund included. The ball reached Garnacho at the far post; he should have scored but hit the side netting. Next, a lovely clipped delivery from Casemiro allowed Fernandes to set up Garnacho for another effort. And then United were away again. This time, Casemiro and Dalot began the run. Receiving on the right, Garnacho drew in three defenders and played it across the face of the area where Zirkzee struck it first time, side footed through Turrientes’s legs and past Remiro.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NV4WPBRHZRGKVMV5BTYZK3CSZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"All that had happened within eight minutes of the restart and a moment later Garnacho hit the side netting again, United were entirely in control now, the only doubt how many more they might add. Or so it seemed. Real Sociedad had not managed a shot on target; the first time they did, it was from the penalty spot and they were level. In the VAR room, they had spotted a Fernandes handball. Mikel Oyarzabal beat Onana, and Real Sociedad were alive, suddenly back in this and looking for more than a draw.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NJCLHL5LARBLFDJZYUGH4ODLA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Onana had to dive to push away a superb, swinging Brais Méndez shot and then la Real should have gone ahead when two substitutes combined, Sheraldo Becker’s perfectly weighted delivery across the area reaching Orri Óskarsson who, six yards out and with the outside of his right foot when he might have used his left, somehow put the ball wide. The next time Becker got it, he did the same; this time, Matthijis de Ligt slipping but somehow scrambling it away with Óskarsson waiting behind him. 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","type":"text"},{"_id":"5X3GVSK7QFGUBHV6Q2G6NRE4IY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In what was Limerick’s first league win against the Tribesmen since February 2020, the home side led by seven points, 1-12 to 0-08, at half-time before outscoring Galway by 15 points to 10 in the second half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SQIMRUZ3FZCXFL3DAYCPS4R6X4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Following their defeat to Clare last Sunday, the result puts Limerick’s league campaign back on track.","type":"text"},{"_id":"I5YVCCP7NFD6XBJU35EDIF3TGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Making six changes to the starting 15 that were defeated by Clare, Seán Finn, Kyle Hayes and William O’Donoghue all returning from injury, Limerick started brightest and should have been a goal up inside two minutes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FMDPDFZJORFGBD4ENA35ZK3TGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"With just 90 seconds on the clock, Adam English bore down on goal, but the Doon man could only watch on as his tame effort was comfortably saved by Galway goalkeeper Darach Fahy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FRF5ZANDBBEMFNMPPYKPBONTYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"English made up for his effort with the opening point seconds later, tapping over from midfield after a misplaced puckout from Fahy went straight to the 22-year-old Limerick midfielder.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CUVXSMURZRCZTAD27DJCH4XKJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Points from Shane O’Brien (two), Aidan O’Connor, Cathal O’Neill and an Aaron Gillane free either side of two Conor Cooney efforts, had Limerick four points ahead, 0-06 to 0-02, midway through the opening half. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BFXA4NVF6BDHVORSJ6U77ULYZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The hosts had the momentum at that stage and opened up a very comfortable seven-point lead at the 20th minute mark when O’Brien did superbly to raise the green flag.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BHXOKW5PMRZD2ZRVJEQN2MFOLE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ZDWD6DGOABEAJEYTH3KD7ZKFDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"With the Galway defence stretched, English found Gillane who flicked the ball on to O’Brien. From here the Kilmallock forward burst through, batting into the net.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BABX5AXNENHWJKJMKNCAWOO5CU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Credit to Galway, who gave themselves a fighting chance thanks to Cooney’s free-taking efforts, Micheál Donoghue’s side kept plugging away, scoring three points to no response after the team had exchanged points following O’Brien’s goal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SXWBNYV2GJFYFAC5YJJCAHFCCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But Limerick found their rhythm once again, Colin Coughlan, Barry Nash and Gillane knocking over three points to put them seven ahead at the break.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J3RNJUEICND47A7QOSFC2BT63Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"In what was arguably a poor half of hurling by both side’s standards, each racking up nine wides in the opening half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3U3GOWYEJGDBPPJG7LIWE4SJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kiely, who opted to start with eight of the starting XV that lost out to Cork in last year’s All-Ireland SHC semi-final, will have been happy with an opening-half spread of eight different scorers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IT5Z22ZEUZAMZC5ERBDVAUE4ZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Galway, who were in search of a fourth successive league win, made three changes from the side that defeated Wexford last weekend, Donoghue giving the nod to Shane Morgan, Kevin Cooney and Conor Cooney.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJDYW6FJSJFFRORWKNSXMJRVLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"After the restart, early points from Cian Lynch and Aidan O’Connor, either side of Conor Cooney’s fourth free of the evening, had Limerick 1-14 to 0-9 up inside five minutes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYSGJXPCZVFG3ILMYBFGQJSF2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Moments later, a Brian Concannon effort on goal was superbly saved by Shane Dowling.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3NEDKDE656OEKP5IJVFRDA4JX4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"HPHIVIMYDFALXBYIZ6JPPAEUL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Galway’s uphill task was made even more difficult a minute later when the Tribesmen were reduced to 14 after Conor Cooney received a second yellow card for a challenge on Barry Murphy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TXB4N4UWHNGRTDGLCQA4R3LOEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"O’Neill and O’Connor further added to Galway’s woes as Limerick eased into an eight-point lead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XVHKDZJOXNATNFZ7XGGM3VUKV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In an added bonus to Limerick’s championship hopes, Peter Casey was introduced as a 48th-minute substitute, his first appearance for the Treaty county since suffering a broken ankle against Tipperary last April.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZE3JEPU7J5ELNGTG56PBRPLEMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Much to the delight of the home support, the Na Piarsaigh man slotted over a well-taken point just two minutes after taking to the field.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P3XKJLG6PBG5ZM7I2BPJMNCHTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite not scoring from play for a 15-minute spell as the game approached the final whistle, Limerick sealed a comfortable win with 10 of their starting 15 getting on the scoresheet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EHVEED3FURCSZKKELWHCF3X3YU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"7V7DNB7LCJBZHCSYT4RKCL7XL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Limerick face a trip to Kilkenny next weekend before welcoming Wexford to the Gaelic Grounds, while Galway will need a win away to Cork if they are to have any chance of reaching this year’s league final.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SK5B6MZPQFHBJOPPJ3ZST4NZMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>LIMERICK: </b>S Dowling; S Finn, M Casey, B Murphy; C Coughlan (0-01), K Hayes (0-01), B Nash (0-02); A English (0-01), W O’Donoghue; C O’Neill (0-04), C Lynch (capt) (0-01), T Morrissey (0-02); A Gillane (0-6, 4f) S O’Brien (1-03), A O’Connor (0-04).","type":"text"},{"_id":"XC4UZFPYIRE4NNM4YBU2GUWRMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Subs:</b> V Harrington for Casey (9 mins, inj); P Casey (0-01) for Lynch (48); E Hurley for Hayes (50); D Reidy (0-01) for O’Donoghue (53); G Hegarty for O’Connor (57); E Stokes for English (66).","type":"text"},{"_id":"OIZSWQCT5JFRDI4J5MFL6LS4HQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>GALWAY:</b> D Fahy; S Morgan, F Burke, D Morrissey; P Mannon, G Lee (0-01), M Garvey; C Fahy, T Monagan (0-01); K Cooney, T Killeen (0-01), D Burke; C Whelan (capt), C Cooney (0-06; 3f, 1′65), A Burns.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJVJB33OH5H4LL62AESGLEAIKM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Subs:</b> B Concannon (0-01) for Burns (h-t); C Mannion (0-07, 6f) for Burke (44 mins); S Linnane (0-01) for Whelan (48); J Cooney for K Cooney (49); TJ Brennan for Morgan (66).","type":"text"},{"_id":"7K3Q4ZNDSRHM5A6RZ7I7K2FCKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee: </b>J Owens (Wexford).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"David Byrne"}]},"description":{"basic":"Treaty men put last week’s defeat behind them with 12-point victory at the Gaelic Grounds"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T21:54:11.734Z","headlines":{"basic":"Limerick bounce back with comfortable win over 14-man Galway","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"SLKSQEUNCABMQELCWLC4TLCT6Q","auth":{"1":"b414f1a50119012f44ed9d48ecf5b65eb47512dffb88f7767ba3acba4810dfa1"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/SLKSQEUNCABMQELCWLC4TLCT6Q.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/limerick-bounce-back-with-comfortable-win-over-14-man-galway/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"HOLN72SFO5EA5GURY5ENFCWHPE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":165,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/e81aa973-2c0c-46cf-85d3-31d5cb1cce4a/versions/1741437531/media/19e129826b0db1b4ba686e78cebf83c9_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/match-days-will-never-be-the-same-again-brendan-cummins-voice-of-meath-gaa-dies-aged-76/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KCEWETAQFNGPPFHS7LI4FGX3EQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The death has occurred of the voice of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/meath-gaa/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/meath-gaa/\">Meath GAA</a> Brendan Cummins at the age of 76.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YPF5OJCNRBEZRGRIFTFAJQYBBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Cummins, who had been ill for some time, was head of sport at LMFM from 1992 until 2017. The Dunsany clubman, who died on Friday, was the public relations officer for Meath County Board from 1988 to 2009. He retired from full-time employment with LMFM in 2017 but retained his work as a commentator with the station.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTQ477J6XFFX3PXKKBFX63XFZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In a statement Meath County Board said Mr Cummins “leaves behind a rich legacy”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FF5JKM3S5DNVLXSSGHX2P3HWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Match days will never be the same again without Brendan on commentary duty but no doubt he along with his former colleague in LMFM, the late Kevin Mallon will be commentating in their own inimitable fashion from heaven.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XTTWE5AFJZBODPPK2HOJHKCCKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"They offered their condolences to the Cummins family – Mr Cummins' daughter Mairead, his siblings Mary and Nuala and all his extended family.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGH2LAWBZ5FCZPFNANH2IX7UEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"LMFM said their much-loved colleague did a huge amount of work above and beyond his role in commentary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SVEMCTJP6BAN3A4OLMGGW54QCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He presented the weekday sports bulletins, weekend sports shows and also provided cover on the popular Sunday Morning request show.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GY6CXNIDUZA6RB2CXBUSDUO5ZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It said that Mr Cummins was also one of Meath GAA’s most “highly respected officials and served in numerous roles on the county board”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GY2JSXHQOFB6NCGBZED7NTLEAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, Dunsany GAA said in a statement that the Cummins family played a pivotal role in the club’s founding.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LOND5RTW3ZF4BCXKY6L3C4NA6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Gaelic football ran deep in his family. His father, Jack, was on the first Meath team to reach an All-Ireland final in 1939 and helped found Dunsany GFC in 1963, with Brendan’s brother, Pat, on the inaugural team. Brendan – known as ‘Sput’ – played for an unofficial Dunsany side in 1962 before becoming a regular with the fledgling club.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JHETKQXVPRDTDM2QTDWHNCC6XA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mr Cummins represented Meath at minor level in 1966 and 1967, playing corner-forward and later centre half-forward in Leinster championship matches. In 1970, he lined out for the Meath senior team in O’Byrne Cup and challenge games.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GNO5KTR5ZFBETIV3JKPPQYYBLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He served as Meath GAA’s long-time public relations officer during the Sean Boylan era, also holding roles as fixtures secretary and delegate to both Leinster and central councils.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RMSGJX3TH5F4BBTSH5ZLVSERUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Though he moved to Wilkinstown after marrying the late Margaret McKeown, he remained deeply connected to Dunsany, serving as a club delegate, committee member and club president at his passing.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Olivia Kelly"}},"name":"Olivia Kelly"}]},"description":{"basic":"LMFM commentator leaves behind a rich legacy, says Meath County Board"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T12:33:42.087Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘Match days will never be the same again’: Brendan Cummins, voice of Meath GAA, dies aged 76","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"J2DF3VBPYJHOPFMM47RDCTU7ZY","auth":{"1":"fe7d1401ae97c64cc6064d7625299441558e797fbb99644dca9e9c92ba944f96"},"focal_point":{"x":1096,"y":529},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/J2DF3VBPYJHOPFMM47RDCTU7ZY.jpeg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/match-days-will-never-be-the-same-again-brendan-cummins-voice-of-meath-gaa-dies-aged-76/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"K3A4WE3MTNEJ5MLLTQDU3C6YIY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":351,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/c18c1114-c6f6-44bf-901d-f453981c13d4/versions/1741375335/media/3fc6a3aedb8016a9e3f07a335dfa47a3_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/gaelic-games-previews-moving-weekend-across-the-divisions-in-hurling/","content_elements":[{"_id":"CJY4HHIABZHJ3GPJQFF4KI6DXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Saturday</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"W7O6IFQYENF53DRJSJLS3YSFPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Allianz Hurling League","type":"header"},{"_id":"EDGHQYOM4FCH7EN6X2TWVTXFVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 1A </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"WKHYLSJWWJDURJV23Z42M62LMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Limerick v Galway, TUS Gaelic Grounds, Limerick, 7.30pm (Live, TG4)</b> – Limerick’s first defeat, last week against neighbours Clare, will presumably buck them up for this. John Kiely has certainly made changes, restoring a clutch of star players – Kyle Hayes, Seán Finn, Tom Morrissey and Will O’Donoghue – to the starting 15. Amid the talk of Limerick’s new faces, the most consistently impressive has been Aidan O’Connor, who also starts. Galway have re-established an even keel after the opening-day calamity against Tipp but they were far from sparkling a week ago, as even by Wexford’s standards they left a lot behind – 14 wides to six. Galway persevered after a below-par display which is all a manager can ask for. <b>Verdict:</b> Limerick","type":"text"},{"_id":"7AN2LFLHX5GWHFEOZSFCZFJW5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 1B</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y3R5OF7A5ZGAPLYGOJRWQDNLBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Dublin v Carlow, Parnell Park, Dublin, 6pm –</b> Dublin have been making a habit out of getting beaten late in the day and with the defeats of the past two weeks coming against their main rivals for promotion, they don’t look likely Division 1A tenants next season. Unlike their hosts, Carlow are unbeaten in the league but should have bested Antrim last week to add to their impressive CV this season. This will be a test and Dublin can get back on board – even if it’s a bit late now. <b>Verdict: </b>Dublin","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEX6IRX2GFE5BD4UUWQWVG2DNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 2: </b>Derry v Meath, Celtic Park, 4pm; Kildare v Tyrone, Cedral St. Conleth’s, Newbridge 3pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2QSCC4KPHZFN7EG74X2WOEORCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 3: </b>Roscommon v Cavan, King & Moffatt Dr Hyde Park 2pm; London v Sligo, McGovern Park, Ruislip 1pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L56ARDO6EJH4PBDJRY4MQDM6QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 4: </b>Monaghan v Lancashire, Inniskeen; Fermanagh v Leitrim, Brewster Park, Enniskillen; Louth v Longford, Páirc Naomh Bríd, Dowdallshill (all 2pm).","type":"text"},{"_id":"4STZAJYXKJF3NJMHIUAGSNAQCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Allianz Football League","type":"header"},{"_id":"N3UWLTKHJJAC3ONSO3EV7FMDEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division Four</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YD3JIOWNKZG4LNAJJMBBTTEBX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Wexford v Wicklow, Chadwicks Wexford Park, 6pm</b> <b>–</b> Wexford are on the cusp of promotion with two matches to go in the division. A win here will put them three ahead of Limerick and four ahead of Wicklow with the latter two counties to play each other next weekend. John Hegarty’s team have the tightest defence, with an average concession just over 0-11, but Wicklow also have good form as the highest average scorers but haven’t been quite as impressive as the home team. <b>Verdict: </b>Wexford","type":"text"},{"_id":"VMVBBU3QFJCAHOKSDOLE3IYEYQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GGJT25SRFJBLJCOCT2CLWUOIH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Sunday</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"UNGOY5JXVREDNMFYXS646WMQKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Allianz Hurling League","type":"header"},{"_id":"KQL23HGZ2NCQLFZJ26Q6JNNE24","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 1A </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJA5T4CONVDZTDLEGRPJUMNDBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Kilkenny v Tipperary, UPMC Nowlan Park, Kilkenny 1.15pm (Live, TG4)</b> <b>– </b>The previous decade’s most familiar of league opponents, the counties arrive in a slightly different place. Tipp with typical Liam Cahill early-season energy have blazed a trail to the top of the table while showcasing young talent and radiating a punky attitude as they go. Whether the diesel runs out by next month remains to be seen but they are buoyant. Kilkenny have been treading water, beating who they should beat and not anyone else. They were uncharacteristically wasteful in Cork. Derek Lyng has been trying to reassemble his best team from the recovery wards and they must be aware that the shadow of relegation is in the neighbourhood with just a game against Limerick left. This represents a good opportunity to burst Tipp’s bubble and float themselves up the table but have they got the wherewithal?<b> Verdict: </b>Tipperary","type":"text"},{"_id":"HF3BH2RDJRAOPHQS5B6FEISLRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Clare v Cork, Cusack Park, Zimmer Biomet Cusack Park, 3.15pm (Live, TG4) –</b> One of the liveliest rivalries over league and championship has swung Clare’s way in recent times, culminating in last summer’s All-Ireland win. For this they are in dire need of the points. Last week’s belated signs of life got them up and running but they need to keep winning to maintain their chances of staying in the top division. They survived an intense match by league standards in Limerick and looked in much better form. Youngsters Seán Rynne and Jack O’Neill acquitted themselves particularly well. Cork had to pedal fast to beat Kilkenny and have been struggling to find a convincing rhythm even though last week brought lustrous displays from rookie Diarmuid Healy, taking 1-5 on his debut, and All Star Rob Downey. They’ll be focused for this but maybe Clare have found their inner Houdini. <b>Verdict:</b> Clare","type":"text"},{"_id":"THQAUNTJXFDMHPVRL4DMR3IOAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 1B</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"JU2LUVUNN5B7PBO6O3RTXMNXDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Antrim v Laois, Ballycastle 1pm (Live, TG4 app, deferred) –</b> As the county’s footballers gear up for the latest “or nowhere” campaign, Antrim’s hurlers appeared to be dicing with plague during the week but David Fitzgerald dismissed claims that his team were looking for a postponement. They could do with the points to put distance between themselves and their opponents, who have matches in hand and for whom a win would mean survival in the division. <b>Verdict:</b> Antrim","type":"text"},{"_id":"HMU2NWXVARHDNFYCMVULOSXII4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Westmeath v Waterford, TEG Cusack Park, Mullingar 2pm</b> <b>–</b> Westmeath have been better than their position, chained to the bottom of the table, suggests but losing even narrowly on a constant basis isn’t good for morale. Leaders Waterford have shrugged off the poor start to get into something resembling their stride, clipping Dublin late last week. <b>Verdict:</b> Waterford","type":"text"},{"_id":"KH26ERIELZFOZHAIIUJMGQTRQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 2:</b> Kerry v Down, Austin Stack Park, Tralee 1pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VYGBTUVI55CZ3N74RWGQOMTAMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division 3: </b>Armagh v Mayo, BOX-IT Athletic Grounds, Armagh 1pm.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IK3ZYNXGDZBEDGRSLM3QXPDYEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Allianz Football League","type":"header"},{"_id":"Y5GPOXJZMRGZXDHWVIGGWRAKPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Division Three</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQGF7U7XXNAAZBM7VUAPAXHAIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Sligo v Clare, Markievicz Park, Sligo 1.30pm</b> – Clare catapulted themselves into the promotion frame by inflicting a first defeat on Kildare thanks to a great finish by Keelan Sexton. They still have to play the other two teams currently above them, Laois and Offaly, but that sharpens the opportunity. Sligo, who came into the season quietly fancied, have spluttered to defeats against the top three. They’ll do well to avoid another setback. <b>Verdict:</b> Clare","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Seán Moran"}},"name":"Seán Moran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Cusack Park in Ennis hosts rematch of last year's All-Ireland hurling final between Clare and Cork"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Gaelic games previews: Moving weekend across the divisions in hurling","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HWFYEAAIY5A73GOGSR4RLXQYSE","auth":{"1":"401513a38d471c15d1a321164128c3d6d97c4d93de135a6816545668599a7794"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HWFYEAAIY5A73GOGSR4RLXQYSE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/gaelic-games-previews-moving-weekend-across-the-divisions-in-hurling/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"QBF6TVHW7ZBNNL6II4IR3I7DVQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":571,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/31679e3a-c7dc-4265-91ac-f4e8a3972f06/versions/1741298868/media/ec3e1646500268301bd429234623f38d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/young-guns-like-darragh-mccarthy-give-tipperary-the-start-they-need/","content_elements":[{"_id":"X7CO6FOAXJHRHA3GJWDDBKV62E","additional_properties":{},"content":"With 53 minutes on the clock against Cork a fortnight ago, it was open to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/search/?query=Liam%20Cahill%20\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/search/?query=Liam%20Cahill%20\">Liam Cahill</a> to choose any adventure he fancied. His <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/search/?query=Tipperary%20GAA\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/search/?query=Tipperary%20GAA\">Tipperary</a> team stood level at 1-17 apiece but had conceded four points on the bounce. They were exactly at the point where they were the rubber and Cork were the road. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JZ556SCD3JDZZIE22TKAQH5CK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Stop the clock. What would you do?","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZHNBH3EAXNBSLMMP34RQ2O2NF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Consider that your players had taken an 18-point beating from Cork the previous time they’d played. Consider too that the league campaign so far had generally been middling-to-good and that not scaring the horses was an entirely acceptable option. The future has been a long time arriving in Tipp. Another 17 minutes wouldn’t have outraged anyone.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ZF4V4WIIRCT5IO7WCCDOHIKO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cahill, however, has an instinct for exploration. He made two substitutions in the space of a minute. Off came Willie Connors and Bryan O’Mara, replaced by Oisín O’Donoghue and Michael Corcoran. Connors is in his eighth season as a Tipp senior, O’Mara is in his sixth. By contrast, both Corcoran and O’Donoghue made their senior debuts in this campaign.","type":"text"},{"_id":"57UCJAEPV5BDTDRB24VIYFLL4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"This wasn’t giving a couple of fresh faces a run out at the end of a nothing game. The fat was in the fire and Cahill’s message was unambiguous – let the young chefs cook. Nobody would have held caution against him. It was much more likely, in fact, that he’d have taken heat if it all went rancid.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYQ3HM3OBFBWLGC4AUFQGWN2FI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Instead, here’s what happened. Tipperary outscored Cork the rest of the way by 1-5 to 0-4, a nifty 1-2 of which came from Dylan Walsh, Darragh McCarthy and O’Donoghue. Walsh and O’Donoghue were both making their second senior appearances for Tipp off the bench. McCarthy is the league’s top scorer but this was still only his fourth game out of underage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HAEUOXLV4VEEJN4VJQWUOEHAGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“To be fair,” says Shane McGrath, “we knew about Darragh McCarthy, we knew about Robert Doyle, we knew about Ois<i>í</i>n O’Donoghue and Sam O’Farrell and these guys. But we didn’t think we’d see the level of performance we’re getting from them now for another couple of years almost. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HLJ4XW76MBEA5O62NXZUH4XAVY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"AGTYVEPMCFDZTIMLIREV6ZR2B4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“People who would know the hurling landscape, who would know what’s going on in the schools and colleges and clubs, they would have known all these names. But the big thing so far is seeing how well these lads have adapted. It’s very early but you’d have to be encouraged by what you’ve seen so far.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"34ZRBWC7DFE35CK2AZYI7KAHUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Top of Division 1A. Highest scorers in the top flight. Best points difference. Any county would take headline stats like those after four games of the league. But it’s the underlying numbers that tell the tale of what Cahill is looking for out of the spring campaign. And maybe even hint at what he’s getting.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GNVKAWC5KRDXTJO4KW5LMULUVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"So far, 10 new players have made their senior debut for Tipp in the 2025 league. Corcoran, McCarthy, O’Farrell and Walsh all started against Galway, with Doyle and Conor Martin coming in off the bench. Gavin O’Halloran and Josh Keller started against Wexford, with O’Donoghue a half-time sub. Joe Caesar played the full 70 minutes against Cork. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNAXHFZUXNC7LML4AMYWR5NHXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"They won’t all last the road and some may not even see the summer. But they’ve come in and survived and Tipp are top of the league. A sound few months’ work in anyone’s language.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WW4RXFFP6FDVLAOESRDJDDIKN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think they were helped massively by the Galway game,” McGrath says of their league opener in Salthill. “However good, bad or indifferent Galway were that first day out, it told some of these lads that they were able to mix it. If your first day out isn’t a good day, you can go into your shell and it can take you a whole campaign to come out of it again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SKQLNR2ZDZHIPDTDKWEDXEGPTA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"SHUHHK5JTRGEJDLMEUIJPPF2BQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You need to be able to find that confidence to say, ‘You know what? I am good enough to do this. I can live with this level.’ I know myself, it does take a year or two to get to that stage where you feel comfortable and you don’t have this impostor syndrome. Once you’re able to come in and do it against good teams, it’s a massive thing.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PZQ2UAACLVCHDPCUV3SBD5PLGM","additional_properties":{},"content":"If there’s a reason to imagine this might be different from other years, the wholesale league restructure might well be it. Everyone accepts that the league is still the league and none of this amounts to a hill of beans until they do it in the championship. But even so, this league has jeopardy for the first time in years and Cahill isn’t sending his young colts out and having to wonder if they’re facing a bunch of non-triers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QIYJNCNJ6BBYTL252ULIY5CRDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Contrast it to last year’s league in which Tipperary blooded eight rookies over the course of six games. Three of them came against Westmeath, another two against Antrim. By the time the Munster Championship opener against Limerick arrived in late April, only Seán Hayes made the starting 15. He has since been cut from the panel. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4ITPFORSJANZDMLSU3BC76TCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A lot of them are still in and around the place, all the same. Seánie Kenneally, Andy Ormond and Darragh Stakelum are both fighting for game-time in the full-forward line now that McCarthy and Walsh are on the scene. Danny Slattery and Billy Seymour are still on the panel but haven’t got a spin yet this year. Every minute is being earned.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CM6U3OKQWNDTBJMCM5L3DARVSA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Little green shoots again as we go through this league,” said Cahill after the Cork game. “We are very conscious it is springtime. Summertime is when you are really going to be judged but springtime is important for this group of players, that we get our house in order and give ourselves a fighting chance in the summer.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KBYT5TKDBJHYDEV5NBJHIY6VLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We just have a real good feeling about what we are doing. From myself, right through the squad, we are really enjoying our hurling at the moment. It is brilliant to be in that kind of a space, that you are enjoying your hurling and you are working so hard on other aspects as well to all feed into the success of trying to get back and compete with the bigger teams again in the championship come April.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"6LGKSOEAUFGKTM5DQL7Y6KGR4I","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"2PVCLDA4J5HRDLQMXBOGAPM4YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"In some respects, the wheel was bound to turn eventually given the amount of underage success in Tipperary over the past decade or so. Walsh was on the All-Ireland winning minor team that Cahill himself managed back in 2016. Corcoran and O’Farrell were both Tipp minor captains – Corcoran of the 2020 team that lost a Munster final to Adam English’s Limerick crop, O’Farrell of the 2022 team that won the All-Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LTZPUX3OZFOFINGUEAMNRXLEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"More recently, McCarthy, O’Donoghue and Martin were all on the team that just came up short against Offaly in last year’s All-Ireland under-20 final. All three are eligible at that grade again this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IMA2AL75GJCDDIZQBGANB7B62Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Go deeper again and Tipperary schools are going through a golden spell in the Harty Cup. When Thurles CBS beat St Flannan’s in this year’s final, it meant that Tipp schools had won Munster most famous schools' hurling trophy for the third successive year. Not alone that, but they’d won it with three different schools – Nenagh (led by Darragh McCarthy) won in 2024 and Cashel (with Oisín O’Donoghue to the fore) had done it in 2023. In the 105-year history of the Harty Cup, this is only the second time a county has done a three-in-a-row with three different schools.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V4CK6JG55BCLBHZ4T2SPAEMTVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And the thing with that was that the year Cashel won it, they beat Thurles in the final,” says McGrath. “So there’s definitely good stuff coming through. You’d still like to see some of them come through and beat St Kieran’s some year. That’s always the big hurdle. But the main thing is you have a load of guys coming through underage ranks who are used to winning.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W4CCEFI2Z5BFZLJYO4ZSHDRGXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They’re not afraid of Cork teams or Limerick teams. They’re well used to beating them. Tipp have a very good under-20 team this year that should have a great chance of getting out of Munster. These are all good, solid building blocks when it comes to getting players ready for senior hurling.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"OFZGVX5CQZGSNORP4AB4EUJ5XY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WN7UHVWZRJHWZFUTXGO2YFNEWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Small straws in the wind. Last September, the Clubber TV streaming service showed the Waterford county final between Ballygunner and Abbeyside as its main weekend pick on the platform. When they crunched the numbers on Monday morning, the second most streamed game of the weekend was Toomevara v Borrisoleigh in the North Tipp under-19 A final. The reason? Darragh McCarthy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CVLCQMFVVG53FNAIF2ZGJJ3PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Toomevara forward turns 20 this year and already he has played every minute of Tipperary’s campaign. Despite the presence of Jason Forde and Gearóid O’Connor, he is the designated free-taker and has barely put a foot wrong. With Tipp enjoying last weekend off, he was Man of the Match for UL as they added the Freshers' hurling title to their Fitzgibbon Cup. The spring couldn’t have gone better so far, for him or for Tipperary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHAZNAODL5FX7MFOLLMOMKR2E4","additional_properties":{},"content":"And obviously, they know. It’s the first week of March and they’ve beaten a Galway team that didn’t turn up, an understrength Wexford, and a Cork side that is still finding its feet. Limerick beat them with half their starters missing. Kilkenny will take endless pleasure in kneecapping their fine start to the year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AG72VHQEJNG7DE5TQQZBPD3LD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“When it turns in Tipp, it turns quick,” notes McGrath. “They know that. The championship starts with Limerick in Thurles and then you’re straight off down to play Cork in Cork the following weekend. So nobody is under any illusions, getting out of Munster is going to be incredibly difficult.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OTRAS2YD6NHFXKICZ3UXQH26L4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But there was a great feeling around Thurles on that Saturday night after the Cork game. That’s important. The crowd love to see a Tipperary team that is honest and hard-working and that has a few new lads coming through and showing they can do it. There’s a real honesty in the group, you can see that. It’s the number one sport in the county and people are enjoying seeing what might come together.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GFTM66YHFVCQXHVZOEF3AHOSH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s a start, no more than that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KSBOZC276JHYRKZDFV3NXXBJQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Starts matter, all the same. No point pretending they don’t.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Malachy Clerkin"}},"name":"Malachy Clerkin"}]},"description":{"basic":"Green shoots as Liam Cahill hands out 10 debuts in campaign to date as Tipperary lead hurling’s top flight"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Young guns like Darragh McCarthy give Tipperary the start they need","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"GN374DGXDZCR7E43JR3PBSILVU","auth":{"1":"8400283522cd6f3572803ded6ca826baf2c29392c27357445b2aa8ed7ccd7513"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/GN374DGXDZCR7E43JR3PBSILVU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/08/young-guns-like-darragh-mccarthy-give-tipperary-the-start-they-need/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"P6MI75YTWNHSZF3I2EAZF4NOZY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":74,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/50f7c7b5-d855-4492-90de-9330ac821cd4/versions/1741291495/media/f6eee8ebd919ed8e8560a4e72cd492c2_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/06/antrims-ulster-championship-clash-with-armagh-moved-to-newry/","content_elements":[{"_id":"XMERKLUPEBAT5LUF5JMICMFSQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The issue of where the Ulster first-round match between Antrim and All-Ireland champions <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/armagh-gaa/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/armagh-gaa/\">Armagh </a>will take place became embroiled in further controversy on Thursday night when the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) released a statement backing Antrim’s right to play the fixture at their home venue of Corrigan Park.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BM5LOM4AHVDPHI4E6XAR56XWYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier, in the afternoon, the Ulster Council had taken the decision to stage the match at Páirc Esler in Newry on Saturday April 12th with a 7pm throw-in, adding: “The complete 2025 Ulster senior football championship programme, including throw-in times and television schedules, will be finalised in the near future.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"3WOHKPKWOND7VHYNLP5LSFSWZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Antrim had been drawn at home but their Corrigan Park venue was deemed too small by the council last month.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IALHOZ3KSJAFBHGRMLF43LI4G4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The minimum number of tickets required to accommodate this fixture (including, players charter, match officials, multi-sponsors, media, season tickets etc) will exceed the venue capacity,” the Ulster Council said in a statement at the time but deferred making an immediate decision on the fixture.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IVDPG522GFDKFPBILZZWP6LWPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"There followed protests in Antrim among players and management with suggestions that they would refuse to play the match anywhere except their home ground. Despite discussions, the final decision was taken on Thursday afternoon by the province’s Competitions Control Committee.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWVSEWSA3VA55CZUVD6ZTDYNGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In reaching this decision,” according to a statement issued, “the committee sympathised with Antrim GAA’s situation, which re-iterates the need for Casement Park to be redeveloped as a matter of urgency.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASPNENDUMRFQRNYRZL4I6EOKPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Later however the GPA in response, said that it “stands fully behind the Antrim senior football squad’s position that their Ulster championship opening round fixture against Armagh must be played at their designated home ground.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NCJDSVJJE5A2JDFNV5UDTGCVYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The GPA has spoken to representatives of both the Antrim and Armagh squads this evening and has made this position clear. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZNLOY4DQCRGOJKGMMUNYPCP3EM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We acknowledge Corrigan Park will not accommodate all Antrim and Armagh supporters but the integrity of the competition and the fundamental principle of home advantage take precedence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R3MUSNICIJHTHOWV42ROFC6G24","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Financial and logistical concerns should not be prioritised over sporting fairness. We urge Ulster GAA to immediately reconsider their decision.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"O32YB7HLSFB73JPKPBSR6FZFP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Included in the GPA release was a statement from the Antrim footballers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZGSN5KX5VCQPKE47DOP24K7XU","additional_properties":{},"content":" “We have worked too hard to earn this game at Corrigan Park and that is where we will be. We will not concede our home advantage as it is our right as players and as a county. Corrigan Park is our home and we expect to play there as originally scheduled.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Seán Moran"}},"name":"Seán Moran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Corrigan Park in Belfast deemed too small to host meeting with All-Ireland champions"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T21:45:34.835Z","headlines":{"basic":"Antrim footballers refuse to play ‘home’ Armagh fixture in Newry ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"PHHGYTFBGE2XKC7CCPO54HGBJE","auth":{"1":"6cdbe110ff1d6ab7c59319adbd8032056fac8decfcc56a2f971107118b33442c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/PHHGYTFBGE2XKC7CCPO54HGBJE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/06/antrims-ulster-championship-clash-with-armagh-moved-to-newry/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"C2FUZPRKWZEEJFORL4FL7U6ZWM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":298,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/75b3bafe-b47e-43e9-b8cb-3fc31b37eb68/versions/1741295064/media/1a294f77728fd797aff594bb59b8f91e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/06/john-small-very-unlikely-to-return-to-action-for-dublin-this-season/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BXLSBNUQHZBYLOCWQ2N33QMVX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ciaran-kilkenny/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ciaran-kilkenny/\">Ciarán Kilkenny</a> has acknowledged that former All Star and seven-time All-Ireland winner John Small is “very unlikely” to return to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-gaa/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-gaa/\">Dublin</a> colours this season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SLUXYDPLUNA6VGQTIXZKWPNNYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Yeah, it’s unlikely John’s going to be back with us this year. A good friend of mine, he knows more than anything that the door is open for him there but it’s very unlikely that he’s going to be back this year.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QVNV7XCTPFAQBNGSOHPU7EIAHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kilkenny, the longest serving outfield player on the Dublin panel in the wake of recent retirements, is in his 14th year with the county, and reflected on the loss of Small, whose brother Paddy has returned to training. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KIHQMAPSL5ENJGBHLA7J535P6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“John is an absolute powerful specimen, an absolute powerhouse. He could nullify a key forward and then go up to pitch and clip a couple of scores or get a goal or make a couple of big offensive plays.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3UHMOU2KYJE5FJQGKAX67EQDPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He offered so much in terms of his attitude, his mindset and underrated foot skills. He has incredible foot skills and control of the ball. John will be missed but, look, it’s a good opportunity for another player to step up.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"G5JFFJ5KKRHAXP4USOTEDYITUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"This has been a season of fundamental change for Dublin with the departure of such imposing names as captain James McCarthy, Brian Fenton, Paul Mannion, Jack McCaffrey and Michael Fitzsimons.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTT2RIH4CJG3RB65DTJZEVM4VA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is, of course, fundamental change for all counties in the football league with the trialling of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/football-review-committee-frc/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/football-review-committee-frc/\">Football Review Committee</a> rule changes or enhancements. Kilkenny is enthusiastic about the project.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AEQQ5SEPQVHFTLBSGWOQMUL5ZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Yeah, I’d be positive around the rules. I feel like it’s created great discussion, great debate around different things. The games have been very competitive. They’ve been very exciting.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKGVU2K7XNC4VJURIJCVHW5BSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Obviously the big thing is when you’re playing in grounds which have significant breezes that teams are getting massive leads on other teams. But as we’ve seen teams are able to peg each other back if they’re fortunate enough to get a lot of the two-pointers.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEDASE4AGNGH3PH6KHEJQFYSZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin have seen both sides of that equation, recovering a 12-point deficit against Kerry in Tralee when a Kilkenny two-pointer closed the gap to three with 12 minutes remaining. At the weekend, though, despite an unanswered 1-8 against Armagh, they were unable to bridge a 15-point gap.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z6TS2NQF2RGH5BO67JCQYKT6PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"He was asked had he been working on them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BR4RY4J32VBJBPY6NZTT7RKZCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If you’re able to get a couple of those two-pointers it just creates massive momentum for your team. I suppose every team is practising them at the moment.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3V2XUQNPUAFDCIIYGUNVPWFRM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BR4RY4J32VBJBPY6NZTT7RKZCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"RRCDUHNABVBANIE5GDNAEPZHMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite a very successful season in 2018 as an inside forward when he was top scorer from play in the championship, the game he is most associated with is big-engine running and what at times looks an infinite capacity to process possessions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PS6EPMM6WRCJ5IH6BFGRPNVJPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The new rules create more contests for the ball with the requirement that the ball travel outside the 40-metre arc and with just 11 players allowed cover the whole field, there have been concerns expressed that the resulting greater workload is causing fatigue. Kilkenny sounds a slightly sceptical note.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WWDATQOITJF2TERKZ7YIBEB3Y4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“For me I’d say I haven’t really delved into the data too much, but I’d imagine it’s similar enough. But the big thing, I would say, is that there’s a lot more physical contests, just in terms of the ball going out long from kickouts. So because of that there’s probably a lot more collisions and a lot more physical contests in relation to that. So that’s probably the most noticeable thing.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PZUQUT6X6JDWJO43XWXRRKFHME","additional_properties":{},"content":"Would he like to see that provision varied? Has it returned football to a game for mullockers?","type":"text"},{"_id":"ERTAX7ZHVVG35CKSHOTC6YTBOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Yeah, I’m a mullocker myself, so I don’t really mind too much. But, no, it would be one thing to have a discussion and conversation around it. I think Jim and the FRC are doing that. They’re talking to everyone as much as possible, and making the best decision possible for everyone.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"7DXWMLVZKVFL3DGYT73ICKDRW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"He believes though that the game is heading in the right direction. “I think that the feedback I’m getting from supporters and even in my school – in my school we have a lot of GAA supporters. There’s great discussion; there’s great talk; there’s great dialogue around the game and great dialogue around the rules.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2SGKCSKMRRGDPMAWJW4WUJPP6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the league. I’ve loved my football more than ever, so for me it’s definitely a positive. Are there tweaks that need to be done? I’d imagine so, but the lads will look at them, I suppose.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DVJCFEVUIJH2LLTCQD3XGW7WS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"As the last of his generation – the 1993s – still standing, his role has evolved into mentoring.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3L5R654YTFDDREK6S75CRCEJDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“For me I love the responsibility of being that little bit older – it’s my 14th season – to be a mentor and a support for the younger players, and try and impart any experience or wisdom I have to help them. Then in the future, when the time does come, I’ll be there in the stand. I would love to still have that connection with those players, seeing them playing.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4UPFHCCNKRFAPEQFWSRCTBKFMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i>Ciarán Kilkenny was speaking as 2025 Aer Lingus College Football Classic ambassador. Tickets for the match between Kansas State University and Iowa State University this August are now on sale at Ticketmaster.ie</i>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Seán Moran"}},"name":"Seán Moran"}]},"description":{"basic":"Ciarán Kilkenny says that former All Star defender ‘will be missed’ from team"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T18:00:09.212Z","headlines":{"basic":"John Small ‘very unlikely’ to return to action for Dublin this season","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"X243IPJ3JM2XDWTJIN2CA67PII","auth":{"1":"f06399a4593e45c02ceba845a321d539572b42440f623a414352772d1b8dbead"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/X243IPJ3JM2XDWTJIN2CA67PII.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/06/john-small-very-unlikely-to-return-to-action-for-dublin-this-season/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"75VVSEBRANEBNI65KMFYVIVBLY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":259,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/2d24e757-c6be-4311-b9d7-fed8c1886dde/versions/1741115042/media/5f7a237c4132341c3811650bd9a3c826_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/04/welcome-respite-for-dublin-as-dessie-farrell-continues-rebuilding-job/","content_elements":[{"_id":"LDAJDVGVJ5ARTIAYLQB6FMEEEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s a badly needed hurling week from the <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\"></a>Dublin footballers' perspective, an opportunity to step away from the coalface and to take stock after three consecutive weekends of action and two lengthy road trips. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TJXBTFOE7BBFJA2RUNJ3AMU3DA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There’s a lot of fatigue in the system,” acknowledged manager <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dessie-farrell\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dessie-farrell\">Dessie Farrell</a>. “You know, back-to-back, back-to-back, and it’s not just the playing of games, it’s the training, it’s the prep, it’s the analysis, it’s the video footage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SM7KCCJ6FBHOVNHKKRWI3J3XWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s really, really intense and I know cognitively and physically there’s a lot there that’s probably difficult to deal with.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"K3DZLQIYQVA4DLLMIBO2GG7WYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It probably explains some of the lethargy in Dublin’s first-half performance against <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/armagh-gaa/\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/armagh-gaa/\">Armagh</a> last Saturday evening, though not all, with Farrell complaining about appetite and application on the evening. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2VFXBJUR6VDV3DBWZSYA2XDJRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The players were given “a few days” off afterwards but it’ll be a short break. The season is only just getting going for a Dublin side retaining big ambitions but haemorrhaging experience.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7JQBLNKDBJESREO3SCZLNWIKPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Seven-time All-Ireland winner John Small is the latest player to be linked with the exit door. He hasn’t featured for Dublin yet this year and while Farrell confirmed after the Armagh game that younger brother Paddy is back involved, he said John isn’t.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VKN7WKNPNFDLPH2DAFF7YYYPLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"That was the extent of the information until former Laois footballer Colm Parkinson claimed on his Smaller Fish podcast this week that he has it on good authority that the Ballymun man won’t be available this year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UD3IZAKNFBBLFNUGWWRQB7AVJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Small has been a hugely significant figure in Dublin’s defence since his championship debut in 2015. In the last three years alone, he’s started 20 of their 21 championship games, returning a healthy 2-9.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2WSWM66ZOJFOXPXXOOD7XYIYMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dublin supporters will reason that no official news is good news having already lost five other starters from last year’s All-Ireland quarter-final defeat to Galway; Michael Fitzsimons, Jack McCaffrey, Brian Fenton, James McCarthy and Paul Mannion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R6SB7QIPN5H33AHKPPQR35ED5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"The talent drain has prompted significant experimentation and as things stand after five rounds of the league, Dublin are only behind Kerry in terms of the Division One teams who have used the most players.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7SLAK55N75FNZPBZXOC6FL5PCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of the 30 players they’ve used, eight made league debuts; goalkeeper Gavin Sheridan, former AFL player James Madden, ex-Dublin hurlers Eoghan O’Donnell and Davy Keogh, Conor Tyrrell, Alex Gavin, Kevin Lahiff and Niall O’Callaghan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"67LES3E26DBCBG7HVSERWZVP7I","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"M6QHCIFYSZDV5A5XIDA2EV63IU","additional_properties":{},"content":"There could be more debuts to come too as Clontarf duo Nathan Doran and Calum Ahearne have been unused substitutes in recent league games against Derry and Armagh.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XT4GVV2EHVHZZKEULXTKBF4YMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cormac Costello made his seasonal return in Armagh but Stephen Cluxton still hasn’t featured, nor the Small brothers. Seán Bugler, Dublin’s standout performer this term, limped off with a calf injury against Derry and didn’t play against Armagh, though Farrell has assured it is a short-term setback.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RSHNTWM6NJADBL3WRAFC6BBGCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"With all the flux, you might imagine Farrell would fancy more league games to nail down his championship XV, though he doesn’t necessarily agree that there should even be a final.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7O45MYT6NH5TDLIFMRVKAD5K4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think there’s definitely an element of that,” said Farrell, agreeing with the suggestion that the new rules have commanded more attention than any title challenges this year. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DI7C62OZRFDNLGED352O3VPFEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You could argue that just a straight league and no league final is probably the way forward because it’s so condensed, like the three weeks back-to-back we’ve just been on.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"X7WVUVUS6ZEK5E42UPUTXV4OGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Con O’Callaghan has kicked three two-pointers for Dublin across their last two games, though Farrell said they are still navigating how to best exploit the double-score opportunity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPG64RY6TBAGXMFTGUKJ2X3O5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You might think it’s a panacea but it can actually throw momentum back in the other direction again,” said Farrell, referencing two-point attempts that fly wide or drop short. “It’s definitely one that needs to be navigated and thought about properly.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYBEYKKY25FD5NR25O5BS7OLW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tweaks to rules in advance of round six are anticipated with Jim Gavin, Farrell’s predecessor in the Dublin hot seat, stating as much on Tuesday’s Morning Ireland programme.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JC2GG6LIJFBCVFZWEEML7SMVMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Supporters, teams, you know, we’re in a period of experimentation,” said Farrell whose goalkeeper Evan Comerford was twice penalised for not getting kick-outs away inside 20 seconds against Armagh.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LCTT5GB2CFG57A7JSHLWNDQ2D4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s going to be difficult. I’m not going to stand here and point the finger of blame at anybody but it is confusing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2RO32M2PGJHCXLQSBOT6LQ4HSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I don’t know how, in terms of practically, how that’s being monitored, the time of a kick-out. But it’s probably something that the committee in charge will take a look at.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Paul Keane"}]},"description":{"basic":"Manager has already used 30 players as Dubs experiment following retirement of star names"},"display_date":"2025-03-04T19:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Welcome respite for Dublin as Dessie Farrell continues rebuilding job ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"XLKXRYJHZ5CODWEUYN4PWPKE5A","auth":{"1":"c7419cbdc2d1065950bc6900fdda95960ca96bda1c44f9574a346815ea799c10"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/XLKXRYJHZ5CODWEUYN4PWPKE5A.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/04/welcome-respite-for-dublin-as-dessie-farrell-continues-rebuilding-job/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"XURIMCFYVRC7VIYNEPPSZHGTCY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":227,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/e18271f1-3abf-4dc7-bca7-f84ba86062d4/versions/1741113018/media/d9d8db4ab079e6e870fcabe690f8b21b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/04/frcs-suggested-adjustments-to-playing-rules-could-be-in-play-for-next-round-of-league/","content_elements":[{"_id":"DSNZHAUH35A7NHSOJXI4H4WXOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-gavin\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jim-gavin\">Jim Gavin</a> says the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/football-review-committee-frc\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/football-review-committee-frc\">Football Review Committee</a> has recommended some adjustments to the playing rules ahead of the next round of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/national-football-league\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/national-football-league\">Allianz Football League games</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UGLJWYXT2JFWTEX5OT3KOIN77Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The quirk allowing teams to manipulate the 3 v 3 rule after they have a player sent off or black-carded appears to be one of the issues addressed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HLIMEAN7HZCFNB5PLHK7B6YZYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In recent weeks, if a team was reduced to 14 men, they simply moved one of their attacking players back out the field. However, the team with 15 players still had to maintain three players inside their half of the field – meaning no numerical advantage accrued when they attacked. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FMLOUIGXABGENFPNSWR4336GZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The committee met on Monday night for the 50th time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JCSSQJVWTRCZ5JQA5Q3TEAV7CQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We have listened to everybody and when [they] see our recommendations people will recognise that,” Gavin told RTÉ Radio 1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CL6ZKTJ5EZFN3C4RFILDM6RCLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“When I managed Dublin if we got a player sent off, highly unlikely if it happened, but if it did we would bring a corner back [forward] back into our defence so we’d only have five players up. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOT6ECCZ6BEANALYM7TWKWSHVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Notwithstanding all of that, we have heard what people have said and we have responded to that. There are adjustments, yeah. We have made some recommendations for some adjustments.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"O7KYIHRDPVB23IMZN5KIGPCJXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The FRC’s recommendations will now go to the Standing Committee on Playing Rules. The GAA’s Management Committee will then forward proposals to Central Council for consideration on Thursday week. Any tweaks would be operational for round six of the league.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5GM6SIRRIZCHXPXSGMNSZ3EJGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gavin would not be drawn on the exact nature of those recommendations, but the role of the goalkeeper is one of the areas also expected to be addressed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D2HQCEESMRGZLL2IDPK7QHX5K4","additional_properties":{},"content":"But in relation to the wave of criticism that arrived from several intercounty managers last weekend, the former Dublin boss said all opinions were taken on board. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CK7VKED3RFE3KYM4I6HSS32OQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We welcome all the feedback, in any chain of management you have a bell curve – you have got people who are leading it, who are innovators, and you’ve got people who are laggards,” stated the FRC chairman.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XL7BCRMN4VBQHOJ2DAQMZPH2ZE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In society, that’s the general, so the early adopters, we can see already those teams who are thriving in this particular space, but we take all feedback onboard.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNUM7BUQW5E3ZKLJK2LCA3GDXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gavin added: “We really welcome all the engagement, we have over 7,000 responses to a survey. We have 1,200 people on a longitudinal survey currently, an ongoing process.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U45RHB7ABNCS5NWNUQVN4U5Z5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’ve got feedback from intercounty managers, a GPA submission in recent days from Colm Begley, club managers have given us feedback, it’s all welcomed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4AMLKQOKJCLTO3FWFO5IK3FBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In general, people like what they see. Yes, we’ve heard from intercounty managers, they represent two per cent of our games in the Association but they are a very, very important stakeholder. They get a shop window for 26 weeks of the year so it’s very important to listen to them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SRHIKKM3TJDJ5JFAOOJKXZ6J6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We also listen to the clubs, I was out in St Anne’s Park in Clontarf last weekend at a minor hurling game. At the pitch next to me Naomh Olaf were playing Naomh Barróg in a game of under-15 football, I spoke to the referee and both managers. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NN5UYDTIA5EO5IA2IW3JPCP5Z4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s going well with them, yes they had feedback for me, things they would like to see changed, we’ve listened to all of that and I believe if the Standing Committee on Playing Rules and Coiste Bainistí push those recommendations on, people will see that we have listened.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NZOKRGE6NBTZKYL2MAJBGN4RY","additional_properties":{},"content":"But Gavin expressed disappointment the committee has been unable to gather sufficient data from intercounty teams in terms of the physical demands of the new rules.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5PULNVLQSJH5VILUW245CZQSCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“What we’ve heard is that yes there are more physical demands on players but we haven’t seen the data yet because teams are not sharing the data with us,” stated Gavin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KA5QFZ2QJBHFPBAKBAEKQF3ECY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That research is ongoing, until we get the data – which will be anonymised. I don’t need to know who the counties are, but until we get the data we can’t make any assessment of the physical demands.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gordon Manning"}},"name":"Gordon Manning"}]},"description":{"basic":"Jim Gavin says changes have been recommended and now go before Central Council for consideration"},"display_date":"2025-03-04T10:27:26.172Z","headlines":{"basic":"FRC’s suggested adjustments to playing rules could be in play for next round of league","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"H2HSW5GGIZFO7IOB6QOZPGASOQ","auth":{"1":"f6a592c289819fe9a7e7f2e9fa067db5e135102ced861d715a5bfe95c5b62c34"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/H2HSW5GGIZFO7IOB6QOZPGASOQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/04/frcs-suggested-adjustments-to-playing-rules-could-be-in-play-for-next-round-of-league/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"NIUSIIXXMJB4DMAHJBX62RYOEA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":326,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/06560ff3-095f-477b-a460-c948737dff33/versions/1741020790/media/409cd2890a7e493fd8fc7492ae24783a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/03/alarm-bells-are-ringing-about-gaa-hooters-good-thing-theres-an-easy-solution/","content_elements":[{"_id":"3XJWFMG2AJEMDNEUIKD62YQUYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hooters, not everybody is a fan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XIRTCT7BCZANLHM7GFURAEN3KA","additional_properties":{},"content":"And yet it is hard to deny the heightened punch of last-gasp drama the clock-hooter system has added to several games over the course of this year’s league.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HTJBZ5S2H5FMPDWRQR3NFYE5XM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Still, the chaotic scenes at the end of Sunday’s Division Two derby between <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/westmeath/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/westmeath/\">Westmeath</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/meath-gaa/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/meath-gaa/\">Meath</a> in Mullingar should not be ignored by Croke Park officials. It’s a timely alarm bell.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TDDETK23ABBN7OL3XS76K7KRG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Admittedly, it was a perfect storm and the odds on a series of similar events transpiring again would be long, nonetheless they coalesced at Cusack Park on Sunday in what was only the fifth round of games under the new rules.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VKP4RX423FABLJD4JOOC4ZOLWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"And while such a hullabaloo at the end of a Division Two league game might not be enough to get Joe Duffy on the case, if such a controversial score materialised in a knockout championship game this summer, they’d need a warehouse full of extra phone lines in Montrose to handle the fallout.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43B4EI4SFJFGJG3JJSQJUYB4NQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In short, Westmeath led by one point with two minutes remaining. Meath equalised in the 69th minute. Then, with the digital clock at the far end of the ground showing 10 seconds remaining, Meath’s Keith Curtis got possession out near the terrace sideline and launched a high ball in on top of the Westmeath goal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KBYJJFG7XFFMLKCNW465RD5CIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Conor Duke caught the ball. Landed. Turned. Took two steps ... and then things got complicated. It appeared that the hooter sounded milliseconds before he kicked the ball.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZGWK6WPYAVGRLFZHNCF7NSU3FE","additional_properties":{},"content":"For a score to count in those circumstances, the current rule states the ball must have left the player’s foot before the hooter sounds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6VFGPYXPWBH3BM342EH5VYQLVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Problem was, Cusack Park was already bouncing. Meath fans instantly started to pour down from the stand and terraces to celebrate a dramatic victory. Members of the Westmeath management team were already a few metres ahead of them though, racing towards referee Barry Judge to tell the Sligo official the score shouldn’t stand.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7YB6SBUJZNBJJAKBCLR7OTSDU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The umpires looked unsure. They weren’t the only ones. The entire ground was enveloped in a concoction of elation, anger, confusion – the tale of a Duke, a Judge and Westmeath fans declaring a miscarriage of justice.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HUTZR2AZ2BCNXF4PGRYHRSVBYQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"7YB6SBUJZNBJJAKBCLR7OTSDU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"HC2HUJFJMVHD7C6UPARH6PEUFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Judge exited the pitch surrounded by stewards in bright orange bibs. And while Westmeath were clearly annoyed and frustrated as they argued their case in the concourse behind the main stand afterwards, thankfully matters never totally boiled over. But they could have.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LV5V7N4WIBGLXBL47YWXTF2DCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"After all, should Westmeath get relegated from Division Two, then there is every chance they will end up playing in the Tailteann Cup this year – as they wouldn’t then be eligible for the Sam Maguire competition unless they progressed to the Leinster final.","type":"text"},{"_id":"52MCIHEB2BAHTHYPUXGZCZJRW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘That’s not Gaelic football’: Meath’s Robbie Brennan says new rules making ‘mess’ of the game","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"YRJPP47LZVBFZEEH6NEFG4EGIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The consequences of not earning a draw last Sunday could yet prove season-defining.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J3NELCCBMRAYFJT4UK3KVEZOSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"So, how could the controversy have been avoided?","type":"text"},{"_id":"34XDLELP5VBKLIOFLN6JMHA7FI","additional_properties":{},"content":"There appears to be a very obvious solution here – the game only ends when the ball goes dead after the hooter sounds. Yes, similar to what happens in rugby.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKJTXXB3JJHZ3NHRAPHHZZZ6OE","additional_properties":{},"content":"There are nuances to all rules but this could be stripped down and simplified – after the hooter sounds the game is over when the ball crosses any of the four perimeter lines on the pitch. That’s it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RJOYNGNHSVAMVH6QO6ZV6FCBCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It doesn’t matter if the ball goes out for a wide or a sideline or a 45 – the game is over. And to prevent the team leading the match from ending it by dragging down opposition players, the concession of frees or penalties would not constitute full-time. The game only ends when the ball leaves the field of play – if that means one team booting it out over the sideline after the hooter sounds, so be it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6NHKF7BOJZCHTGJE6T22J5MKGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"There are, of course, other considerations at play on this topic. The location of the scoreboard clock is not consistent in every ground, some hooters are louder than others, and several counties have encountered technical issues operating a stop-clock system.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4XDVSL7WVCNFNTAWZCGTNRXLA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"6NHKF7BOJZCHTGJE6T22J5MKGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"3DOMKSLGZVEA3CH2OEM5DRLUKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For some, this clock-hooter business is just not worth the hassle. For others, it has added to the excitement of games and provided certainty in terms of how much time remains.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TWAF5TJZI5AW7PWYRHE3VBXWAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sunday wasn’t Dermot McCabe’s first clock-hooter drama either. In 2001 the Cavan man travelled to Australia as part of Brian McEniff’s Ireland International Rules squad.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F6OAONNL7JB2TL75TG4HMGMSZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"McCabe missed the first test in Melbourne because of injury but at the end of that game when the hooter sounded and with the ball going over the sideline, the Ireland players started to celebrate a victory.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LOBTWMSS35C2HAV5AMFMELVWIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, the rules allowed for the kick to proceed and Australia subsequently scored a quickly taken behind into an unguarded Irish goal, cutting the deficit to six points for the second test.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DGA7PJI3V5F7RLJIO5MKXTXCZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland were enraged and subsequently assistant manager Paddy Clarke received a five-game ban for a confrontation with referee Brett Allen.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NOXO5WXLGZHMRKFDR4MO6PXENY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Culturally, clock-hooters remain a sea change for GAA supporters.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYDXXP2R7JFNNI4YG2PXPN2VCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yet it has largely worked in the women’s game, and it has been proposed many times in the past for the GAA. Indeed, such a system was trialled during the college competitions in 2014, after which a report commissioned on the experiment stated:","type":"text"},{"_id":"5BFFAT65EFHEXEFX4PEIRGCVGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We believe the clock-hooter system will be an addition to the presentation of our intercounty championship games. However, we also believe that our playing rules at present do not necessarily provide for what it was hoped the clock-hooter system would achieve.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDA7M6G74FHUZOY5ZIEAHIG5P4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The clock-hooter was placed back in cold storage. The Football Rules Committee’s efforts to reheat it are commendable but Sunday’s climax in Mullingar exposed some flaws.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6NCCXWRRONGR7M4RAD4MYJIVE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"There appears to be a practical solution, though.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUFOVGYO5JHPRF5OJVVOMZ2PNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gordon Manning"}},"name":"Gordon Manning"}]},"description":{"basic":"The contentious ending to last weekend’s Westmeath-Meath game exposed flaws in the system"},"display_date":"2025-03-03T16:48:05.425Z","headlines":{"basic":"Alarm bells are ringing about GAA hooters - good thing there’s an easy solution","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"5K3BATU4CNELBFXSRZFLH6HLYM","auth":{"1":"c146b50572e49a7f84b3b55747c220a4a80a59844e375cc3b2e879d5ecf5ebc2"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/5K3BATU4CNELBFXSRZFLH6HLYM.jpg"}},"subtype":"feature","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/03/alarm-bells-are-ringing-about-gaa-hooters-good-thing-theres-an-easy-solution/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"WDVSMI3ZKRHJBFAQMWI53X3QLM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":572,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0997043c-cf63-47ed-90ce-dce2969f531b/versions/1741013298/media/23e31baf8076cf533beb1fcc538eeeed_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/03/five-things-we-learned-from-gaa-weekend-frc-have-done-a-lot-right-but-some-rules-need-binning/","content_elements":[{"_id":"O3WSJM6YXJF3XAQBQE4YNQVMFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And now we’re told when you pass the ball back into the square, it’s only one pass. So you’re only allowed one pass. And next we’ll be told you’re only allowed to do it when the sun is shining into the east. What is it they want us to do? Do they not want goalkeepers to touch the ball?” – <b>Kieran McGeeney, Armagh.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"FVG6HBIYAJDX5HMVHRCMP5MFEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The whole idea here was to try to protect the game and we’re not doing that – that’s not Gaelic football. You check a score at half-time of a game and it’s 17-0 to somebody, it’s a joke to be honest with you the way it’s gone. It’s a mix of outdoor basketball with a breeze, soccer-style defending with 11 behind the ball in zonal stuff, and a bit of rugby thrown in for a few scrums around the middle. I don’t like it, it’s not Gaelic football.” – <b>Robbie Brennan, Meath.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LCY2RT2YP5GZ7GHFUH3QSVRLXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There seems to be a push from the FRC towards playing under fatigue. It seems as though they want players playing at the highest level under the highest tempo, under fatigue all the time. That’s what I feel is happening with every one of the enhancements. It always seems to revert back to that.” – <b>Jim McGuinness, Donegal.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"R2JZ6WPU3ND3PI74OKEVBM4MJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We weren’t told about this rule change that apparently happened during the week. How can you implement a rule in a game that we haven’t been told about? Laois got a point off that and then we lose the kick-out and they get another point. When the incident happened, the linesman explained to me that if you take your solo and go outside the window of when you are supposed to take it, it is a free the other way.” – <b>Andy McEntee, Antrim.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"HO37OPWSLJFCHCIZMXQPKXZ4KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The managers are getting crankier each week. Anyone get the feeling the championship is getting closer by the minute? – <b>Malachy Clerkin</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7YD75ZTUZBWDCZHPPPOFZWYDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Putting goalkeepers on the clock is answering a question nobody was actually asking </mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"C3SRITQXI5BBHNW3EWRTQTSXWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"That’s not to say they don’t have a point. They have many points. The FRC have done a lot right but they’ve definitely dirtied their bib around the margins. Last week’s meddling with the time a goalkeeper can take over a kick-out was a perfect case in point. Telling referees to whistle up any goalie taking more than 20 seconds over his kick-out was answering a question nobody was actually asking.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6UCAXC6ZRZGCNGRBG4VMNTQIFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"On Saturday night in Armagh, the Dublin stopper Evan Comerford got blown for a delay when in reality, he’d actually only taken 15 second over his kick. Mistakes happen and it would be churlish to hold that one over referee Niall Cullen. The blame lies squarely at the door of the FRC, who created the conditions for it to happen.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XQITVRYTOJF37DGXNBCS37LKPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Listen, there was nothing wrong on that front anyway,” was McGuinness’s take on it. The Donegal manager had watched the Dublin game on Saturday night and was as confounded as everyone else by the busybodying that brought it about.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HCO3VAURCZH5JBC2TAT7OVTXS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Think about the game last night in reality. Dublin are 12 points down. They’re getting hammered in the game in that moment. And their keeper is blown for wasting time?! They need to get their hands on the ball! The last thing Evan Comerford was doing was wasting time. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E3QEESADIJBXBGP5QIVBCUNSQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He did it under the 20 seconds anyway but that’s not the point. If Dublin are 12 points up and he’s strolling out killing time, that is a very different thing. The common sense part of, to me, doesn’t make sense.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CTVGU7SPDYGTL4AGFETESCRKTU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"6EMPQLVM35GR7IEV5CT4YDW5FY","additional_properties":{},"content":"With championship so close at hand, the FRC could do with paring back a lot of the finicky bits and pieces. Nobody had a problem with goalkeepers slow-walking kick-outs – when it was egregious, everybody could see it and the referee could deal with it. This change wasn’t needed and doesn’t enhance anything. Scrap it and move on. – <b>Malachy Clerkin</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AUHGBG4S2JG7HJB5GHOAQYDVXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Clare up and running but relegation is not the end of the world </b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"2FDU6NQ4QJBP7EEPPVZEKWIBK4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Clare’s reawakening on Sunday has at least given the All-Ireland champions and league holders a shot at staying in Division 1A of the hurling league. A lot done but more to do, as Brian Lohan’s team must get results from the two remaining matches against Cork and Tipperary.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UHN5SQHJLBBFBH3RRZ2RUL2TOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Still, deservedly beating Munster champions Limerick was a good start, especially with half the All-Ireland winning defence still to return.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FA4UVBX65VBD7GFLBHN3EGBEGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In recent years, the absolute need to be playing top-flight hurling before championship has been qualified by two lower-tier teams, Galway (2017) and Limerick (2018) taking home Liam MacCarthy. For all but one of the years since, until the current season, there has been an expanded Division One, containing all of the MacCarthy Cup counties, effectively insulating top teams against being demoted.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5EPYVZQQDF2HPYIS3HLEQXZ3HI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FA4UVBX65VBD7GFLBHN3EGBEGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"More relevantly, no county has been relegated as All-Ireland champions for 32 years. A quick summary of Kilkenny’s travails in the 1992-93 season saw them having lost three of their five regulation fixtures to Antrim, Tipperary and most eye-catchingly, Down.","type":"text"},{"_id":"25HGUNVZABGKBMRKCR32J6ZB5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite wins over Limerick and Offaly, Kilkenny were in the bottom two of Division 1A when the group stages ended in March 1993.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7QULDO3VSZA67GEPFFRM4FAUKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wexford in 1997 – the first season with a calendar-year league – did finish in the relegation positions but the league was redrawn for the following season, sparing them the drop.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2IRVBOI4VNBMLADD5MRKX7XO5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"There were positive portents, however, emanating from Clare’s first win of this season, which included it being the county’s first league win in Limerick for 13 years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PYIPJ7MJAZFW5JZQYAUQCLBV7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"If worse comes to worst and the champions end up retracing their predecessors’ faltering steps in 1993, at least consolation can be taken from the fact that by the end of that year, Kilkenny were back-to-back provincial and All-Ireland champions – an achievement Clare could yet emulate for the first time. – <b>Seán Moran</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LQYONEAKVBAOHEJGH4TK2VDU2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Wexford footballers a Model for promotion from bottom tier</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"2LZPROONUFCZXCB5OE7KHKKW3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Wexford footballers are the only remaining team in the Allianz Football League with a 100 per cent record. John Hegarty’s side missed out on promotion last year on the head-to-head metric – a controversial late penalty scored by Leitrim was all that separated Wexford from a top-two finish. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DYO7XK3IPNKKELHNTJMP6OIHIE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"2LZPROONUFCZXCB5OE7KHKKW3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"But having spent six years in the bottom tier of league football, Wexford are now within touching distance of promotion. Despite having only played four games, they are top of Division Four with eight points having won them all. No other team in the country has achieved victories in all their matches. And Wexford also boast the best defensive record in the country – having conceded only 45 points across four matches. That’s an average concession rate of just 11.25 points per game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A556QIKCAFBEFEPNRAYFUY5SZQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Clare, who have also only played four games, are next up with 56 points conceded – an average of 14 points per game while Kildare have shipped 62 points in their five fixtures – an average of 12.4 points conceded per outing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3VZFNIO2OJCIZKC7SQEFRS5WGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Admittedly, the scoring rates tend to be higher up the divisions but Wexford’s businesslike start to the year has been productive – wins over London, Limerick, Carlow and Waterford have put the Model County on course for Division Three football for the first time since 2018. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HB7ZUM4I3RFEFCM4BIFYTQKUGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Any team that is in Division Four, their only target in life is to get promoted. In the world of Division Four, all that matters is league points,” Hegarty recently told Wexford Weekly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AOEAXI6DUBEXHP2ZOZQ5UMHJ2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"It can be easy to forget that for some teams the most important games of their season take place long before the provincial championships begin. – <b>Gordon Manning</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"HFCJBLN4TJEKNLY4DGYL5KCVI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Another clampdown on head-high tackles required in hurling</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"MMINOWMDK5BTBOQ75BVGW3DOMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of the great hypocrisies at the heart of the GAA is that nobody wants to see anybody sent off and yet people scream blue murder if the rules aren’t applied. According to the rules there should have been a blizzard of red cards in the top tiers of the hurling league over the weekend; in the event, there were a couple. In the same rule book that lays down the law, however, there is also a degree of latitude. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KAMHVYBZLVF6PM5AVUCZIUJPXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Diarmaid Byrnes was dismissed on a straight red card late in the Limerick-Clare game in the Gaelic Grounds; it is unclear if he was punished for his original tackle on Tony Kelly, or for his swinging arms in the melee that followed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QNKAG7RPWRBLHNJYCGTGZTK2FU","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, every other player that contributed to the melee escaped sanction. In part two of the GAA’s Official Guide, where playing rules are set down, contributing to a melee is clearly defined as a Category III offence and the penalty is to “order offender off.” In club competition this rule is often applied. But not in the Gaelic Grounds on Sunday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZYXMZ6QBNWL3RT2FNBJ7F76IYE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"MYUG57CAJ5DSVGTMOVQC4F5AYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The head high tackles by Tony Kelly and Mike Casey should also have been met with red cards, according to more than one rule. “To strike or attempt to strike an opponent with a hurley with minimal force,” is a red card offence. “To strike an opponent with force or causing injury,” is also punishable with a red card. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"735AM5QAL5GPLBTJLUMRJKJ2OE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“To behave in any way which is dangerous to an opponent, including to deliberately pull on or take hold of a faceguard or any other part of an opponent’s helmet,” is also a red card offence. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"I7SQM2XYZBEZVGZZNL7DZUNMD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, “To use the hurley in a careless manner,” is only a yellow card infraction. Was this the lesser offence that referee Tomas Walsh adjudged appropriate in these instances? Possibly. In that case, Casey avoided a yellow card.","type":"text"},{"_id":"72LLVWEAE5HR7O7GAMV2JVMITQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the Waterford-Dublin game, however, Cian O’Sullivan was correctly sent off for making shoulder to head contact with a Waterford player. In the Cork-Kilkenny game Cian Kenny escaped sanction for head-on-head contact with Ciaran Joyce. The referee was standing just metres away. Did he deem the contact accidental? Evidently. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"KM33EMVCPBGIDEEOUJIGUJEAJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the beginning of 2019 there was a concerted clampdown on the scourge of head high tackles, resulting in a number of controversial red cards at the time. The impact on behaviours that season was noticeable. In all contact sports players have a duty of care to their opponents. Without that, chaos would ensue. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHTCBLYNYZBZZFX23SOWYX6ASM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sometimes players need to be reminded of their responsibilities. Another clampdown needs to happen immediately. – <b>Denis Walsh</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"STE545UZEBHH3CVY7ASBHGHWVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Clare finally get motoring but is it too late?; Wexford a Model for promotion; Hurling must clamp down on head-high challenges "},"display_date":"2025-03-03T14:43:12.677Z","headlines":{"basic":"Five Things We Learned from GAA Weekend: FRC have done a lot right but some rules need binning","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7I33R65CHX3WKNREQZN6ROI3IE","auth":{"1":"c96759011c50e03b60edd0746e8b1b43a90a6f138f78740a180db2625a233946"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7I33R65CHX3WKNREQZN6ROI3IE.jpg"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Gaelic Games"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/03/five-things-we-learned-from-gaa-weekend-frc-have-done-a-lot-right-but-some-rules-need-binning/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/gaelic-games","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gaelic Games"}}}},{"_id":"P76BOFSVA5CSTC4D2MVFTDXM5E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":219,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/17757cb5-3fc9-4e76-b7f9-6020e4f4176c/versions/1740947459/media/4f6953a084509449508271a9c0468c32_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/gaelic-games/2025/03/02/thats-not-gaelic-football-meaths-robbie-brennan-says-new-rules-making-mess-of-the-game/","content_elements":[{"_id":"RGLLCSQXRVB5XHXPTFSOR6QNOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/meath-gaa/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/meath-gaa/\">Meath</a> manager Robbie Brennan believes the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/football-review-committee-frc/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/football-review-committee-frc/\">FRC</a> rules are making a mess of Gaelic football, despite his side benefiting from a controversial last-gasp goal to beat <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/westmeath-gaa/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/westmeath-gaa/\">Westmeath</a> on Sunday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KV74P3OQTNBSVKPHW4JPPOG2MU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Westmeath argue Conor Duke’s match-winning strike didn’t beat the buzzer, claiming the ball was kicked after the hooter sounded at Cusack Park.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W6TW7LK4SFGW3HR3HRLC7EXWNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"While Dermot McCabe was visibly angry and frustrated afterwards, Brennan was more outspoken on the new rules than his Lake County counterpart.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5W2TQF2Z45EGVGMIGO5TOPEQM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Meath boss said there was confusion beforehand as to whether the hooter system would even be operational for the Division 2 derby in Mullingar.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPIYM3RA6JFGFHKTQVPR2PEDSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“At the start of the match there was a hooter, then there wasn’t a clock, then the clock wasn’t working, then it was working. It’s a mess like, it’s a mess,” said Brennan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EKIXLHQ4DNFDVAUAV56LKYJZFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The clock is at the other end (of the pitch for the last play of the game), players aren’t sure (what time is left). It’s a bit of a joke.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DIU5BTM6REGHKDJXESO5BPVR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Having watched the rules in action for five games now, Brennan has massive concerns.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6GULWYKAYVAIZJNUEOUIXJP6UU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“My own honest opinion, not with my Meath manager hat (on), is that they’ve lost the run of what we are trying to do.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PKQLYFN33BCTFK2VTQZWAKGFFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The whole idea here was to try protect the game and we’re not doing that – that’s not Gaelic football.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEU7473Z5RGQHCP7NGK7PN2MVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You check a score at half-time of a game and it’s 17-0 to somebody, it’s a joke to be honest with you the way it’s gone. It’s a mix of outdoor basketball with a breeze, soccer style defending with 11 behind the ball in zonal stuff, and a bit of rugby thrown in for a few scrums around the middle. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QOO73BYJPVBSHHBLGIQ7LFRVCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I don’t like it, it’s not Gaelic football.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XXXW5BUJRZA75KGOE7JY2O36YU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Brennan is also sceptical as to whether the FRC will take on-board feedback from managers and other parties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2BFUKG7EFNB7XON3LZIRZ4LRH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There are a load emails going around – fill in this form and fill in that form – but I’d say it’s a bit like voting; the decision will be made no matter what,” he added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"47SX36WA4FF2HAV6A7UUH52RHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“God forbid we might have Gaelic football back again instead of a mix of soccer, basketball and rugby. But I doubt the way things are going that they’ll be changing a whole pile, unfortunately.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DNQURFVFHVGWDJWOENOYWT6X2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"McCabe questioned several decisions made by referee Barry Judge but, despite Duke’s contentious late goal, said Westmeath are unlikely to seek any recourse in terms of appealing the final result.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7S32SGBCZFCOHI2ZZ3MQ35BIN4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NR2UBWMA2NAABKYT3SVKPDJGD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“No, I wouldn’t think so. There is no point crying over sour milk, we are not that type of people but it will just be interesting to see what is said and done on this,” said McCabe.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DJW6JRBSMJGDXNOOMA4Q6RNERU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s fine when the hooter goes in Croke Park but when you have a passionate crowd, local derby, you’d want a very good hooter.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LI3ARREKKJDYLNN3ZVC427VCFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"McCabe has questioned some of the rules in the past and, like Brennan, he too has doubts over the current regulations.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ICTCX2F4QRC7FFECC2LOJLSJS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There are so many uncertainties, it’s so difficult.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6GGMPR5QPNAXZMO5VXUBBTNFIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s so unfair on referees, there are so many variables that are happening every time a person touches the ball – it’s so difficult to manage that.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RH2AEC7N3ZHTBIL5YNIY36TZQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If we all make 10 per cent of mistakes, and I do make them as well, we are after increasing the calls referees have to make so we are after increasing the number of mistakes that could potentially occur – that’s players, coaches, referees and officials. It’s just so difficult now.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CG6MCIKKHJF63NJ42GGHOXC7T4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meath’s last-gasp victory sees them share the top spot in Division 2 alongside Roscommon and Monaghan, while Westmeath remain rooted to the bottom of the table.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DAW5JZMCKNCLHED77W5GNIXRQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That is what Meath teams do, that is how we normally go after these things,” added Brennan of the late goal.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CXRTEKMXZZG6LBZGVMVIDTPHUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We are never beaten and never buried, no matter how bad or good we are playing, and those who were old enough to be there in 1991 would remember those things.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gordon Manning"}},"name":"Gordon Manning"}]},"description":{"basic":"Confusion clouded the closing stages of Meath’s trip to 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Hello and welcome to the Irish Times rugby blog. John O’Sullivan here, and at no further expense I will be keeping you up to date pre, during, and after Ireland’s seminal Six Nations Championship clash against France at the Aviva Stadium.","type":"text"},{"_id":"COZQQX37WFCXXIRM2LUPGFGD4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s a mouthwatering clash between two sides that have occupied to the top two placings in the tournament for the past two campaigns. Indeed, France have finished second in four of the last five stagings. The French finished runners up to England in 2020, runners-up to Wales in 2021, won the Grand Chelem – that’s my bilingual nod – in 2022, second to Ireland in 2023, second to Ireland in 2024.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHVJD46WPFG47POGF42TR7OKCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Johnny Watterson will be evaluating the Ireland players. He’s got new red and green pens. Gerry Thornley’s match report will be available shortly after the game. Malachy Clerkin will be man-marking Antoine Dupont with a rigour of which the Ireland team would be proud. There is a huge French presence around the Ballsbridge area and the Marseillaise was belted out by a group of 30 as they walked down Lansdowne Road. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOL7X2JQ7JBABIJBAVVCW2X24M","additional_properties":{"_id":"UHESDJRZYVAHVDED6HDANLAYWQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741436722524},"id":"timestamp-67910","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JXTM3LSHK5GGLHWZP3DAM4LO7Q","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"MYYRACSVCBBLPMTI5HYB6UFJUI","additional_properties":{"_id":"SNLTIHSAORCIPHJLZFGW4NZTXU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741436822146},"id":"timestamp-16143","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"IISLRIXMRBHOFAPLLG7XAVUTZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Where to start? Well maybe a quick look at the teams. Mack Hansen is injured (quad), Garry Ringrose is suspended, Jamie Osborne switches to right wing, Hugo Keenan returns at fullback, Finlay Bealham returns to tighthead while captain, Caelan Doris has shrugged off a knee injury to lead the team.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NKK4A7MM75FJBJGEU7PZL2S7LM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rob Herring is back on the bench, Jack Conan has recovered from a back injury, while Ireland have opted for a six-two split on the bench with Conor Murray and Jack Crowley the backline cover.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BFI2LIFXNJF77K5MVONP47HTPI","additional_properties":{"_id":"E2BDBQIJ6NC5HHPME4SFKSQL3I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741437159748},"id":"timestamp-53258","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3VPL3QWJMNDXZANCPGOAY7QKRE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Speaking of benches, France head coach Fabien Galthié has opted for a 7-1 split with scrumhalf Maxime Lucu the only back listed. Flanker Paul Boudehent has previously played in the centre.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ZY2N5WVRFDT3JL54NQAUWC3P4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Springboks were pioneers of this strategy, including employing it against Ireland in the World Cup, which Andy Farrell’s side won, again in the final itself and most recently against Scotland in November. France opted for this alignment in the victory over Italy last time out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A53RZ442SZDJFM2O7ATAXP3BQU","additional_properties":{"_id":"TWXV2YVCCJC5FB5LKM6O4AIH4E"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741437337440},"id":"timestamp-96164","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BYN5H2DJ65XCLWAMFTWSBANFEA","additional_properties":{"_id":"HO7YIJFZL5A7LJZALDEZ46352Q"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"OLJCM6P2H5GV3C5VJFNCLHT6TM","additional_properties":{"_id":"YQIKUZO2ANCCFHSSVLFDVFVES4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741437698190},"id":"timestamp-19446","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"TOLVL3MCHBEXDPDNX2IC2ETOEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lets have a look at the teams and officials.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4GAAE7CJ2VCJ3C2JIYLNEAS5LE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND: </b>Hugo Keenan (UCD RFC/Leinster); Jamie Osborne (Naas RFC/Leinster), Robbie Henshaw (Buccaneers RFC/Leinster), Bundee Aki (Galwegians RFC/Connacht), James Lowe (Leinster); Sam Prendergast (Lansdowne FC/Leinster), Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster); Andrew Porter (UCD RFC/Leinster), Dan Sheehan (Lansdowne FC/Leinster), Finlay Bealham (Galway Corinthians RFC/Connacht), Joe McCarthy (Dublin University FC/Leinster), Tadhg Beirne (Lansdowne FC/Munster), Peter O’Mahony (Cork Constitution FC/Munster), Josh van der Flier (UCD RFC/Leinster), Caelan Doris (St. Mary’s College RFC/Leinster) (capt).","type":"text"},{"_id":"B2QRXTGCBRDWRL2HG3UDNC6E4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>Replacements: </b></i>Rob Herring (Ballynahinch RFC/Ulster), Cian Healy (Clontarf FC/Leinster), Thomas Clarkson (Blackrock College RFC/Leinster), James Ryan (UCD RFC/Leinster), Jack Conan (Old Belvedere RFC/Leinster), Ryan Baird (Dublin University FC/Leinster), Conor Murray (Garryowen FC/Munster), Jack Crowley (Cork Constitution FC/Munster).","type":"text"},{"_id":"LGS6XZITYZDKBG6IZXJLEMKGGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>FRANCE: </b>Thomas Ramos (Toulouse); Damian Penaud (Bordeaux-Bègles), Pierre-Louis Barassi (Toulouse), Yoram Moefana (Bordeaux-Bègles), Louis Bielle-Biarrey (Bordeaux-Bègles); Romain Ntamack (Toulouse), Antoine Dupont (Toulouse) (capt); Jean-Baptiste Gros (Toulon), Peato Mauvaka (Toulouse), Uini Atonio (La Rochelle), Thibaud Flament (Toulouse), Mickaël Guillard (Lyon), Francois Cros (Toulouse), Paul Boudehent (La Rochelle), Grégory Alldritt (La Rochelle).","type":"text"},{"_id":"4MB4XWFHRRHPXG2PXRSZ5ZIPXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>Replacements:</b></i> Julien Marchand (Toulouse), Cyril Baille (Toulouse), Dorian Aldegheri (Toulouse), Emmanuel Meafou (Toulouse), Hugo Auradou (Pau), Oscar Jegou (La Rochelle), Anthony Jelonch (Toulouse), Maxime Lucu (Bordeaux-Bègles).","type":"text"},{"_id":"2U3GASLO5BE6BN5WAZVDJ44FO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> Angus Gardner (Australia) ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EMZCH6BZ3RFE7GKF5RXSOJAGLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>Assistant Referees:</b></i><b> </b>Matthew Carley, Christophe Ridley (both England) ","type":"text"},{"_id":"56F2J5APRNAOBKF6SW5IA7PN7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>TMO:</b></i><b> </b>Ian Tempest (England) ","type":"text"},{"_id":"H5HMI3DH2VA27ICSMQ7ZQZ6III","additional_properties":{},"content":"<i><b>FPRO:</b></i><b> </b>Andrew Jackson (England)","type":"text"},{"_id":"ALNJ3OKK2NHLVEKNFW4D72DR5U","additional_properties":{"_id":"YJIKFEVKVNDFBMFCAL437VSG7U"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741438188967},"id":"timestamp-15793","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JB2DOQ47G5DZ7FRM4747CD42NI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Fun fact number one courtesy of Ryle Nugent who’s sitting across from me.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AXR5QT4JRRETPJXTZFYKNJGE2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland have trailed twice in this season’s Six Nations at half-time, against Wales and England and came back to win both games. If they were to trail against France at the interval this afternoon and win the game, it is the first time to accomplish that in Dublin since 1928.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKQANP7WNR6DLQQMIZ4EKJQYKY","additional_properties":{"_id":"2WWKYEA44REX3IB55TKG4XM63I"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"IKAGD4K6B5CJDNLHN2LBY5WBYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A notable occasion for six Irish players. </b>Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray and Cian Healy, who are retiring from international rugby at the end of the Guinness Men’s Six Nations, will lead out the teams ahead of today’s game. They will be followed by Caelan Doris, Jack Conan and Finlay Bealham, who are winning their 50th caps. Conor Murray will be accompanied by his nephew, Theo Cooper.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5UKD5MZAZHPFKI5WSUUPT35KM","additional_properties":{},"content":"I spoke to Ian McKinley, Ian Keatley, Michael Kearney and Paddy ‘Rala’ O’Reilly who know Healy, Murray and O’Mahony. You can read it <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/green-giants-healy-omahony-and-murray-set-for-final-home-bow/\" target=\"_blank\">here. </a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSDD6CW3FBCSPM7QJA5QRM2PQ4","additional_properties":{"_id":"RDDR64MBIZFFLEJ64XPSTI5M5A"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741439330120},"id":"timestamp-34551","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7E3GN7RPTFAGNIZHR7W3ISG7JA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Romain Ntamack</b> started all five games in France’s most recent Grand Slam (2022) but only once was in the run-on team since then in a Six Nations match, against Wales, the opening game in the tournament a game in which he was sent off. He’s back today following that suspension, partnering Antoine Dupont for the 29th time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EARIYFE6R5AAHAQS5OYVP6PIFU","additional_properties":{"_id":"WFL6L5ODIRBPLKVI27OET75S2Y"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741439420215},"id":"timestamp-431","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"37JAYJT4FBGUXMY7X2G5KMM4WQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"ZZGPTTBPDFCHLEFMF37OGB2QOA","additional_properties":{"_id":"QUYEG2IWUBFXZFFX746QLD2FUM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741439450700},"id":"timestamp-67689","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"6CPHAAL2W5GO7MCXL4SRSAJ3UE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley had a look at the two best scrumhalves in the world, Jamison Gibson-Park and Antoine Dupont. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\" target=\"_blank\">Here are his thoughts</a>. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"33BQ2P6MJNEODJLITEVWET46MI","additional_properties":{"_id":"2NTTY3IEKNAE7PLYWA4WPRVLQA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440034878},"id":"timestamp-15776","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZJ7JXFLJNBEF5A27JI4R5V6CTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>A word from the captains.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ESI75HHED5CFNJWF6VRSL4XM7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland’s Caelan Doris:</b> “We’re very much aware of the threat France pose and the quality they’ve got individually, but what they can do collectively as well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TMTMA5GVFHSZLWS5NFHFBEXKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’ve seen that with some of the scorelines they’ve put down against some other quality teams, and we’ve experienced it first-hand as well a number of times too so we’re definitely aware that we’re going to need to be at our best.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PSTKUCGX5JEMTOAKHDYKBDME6M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But there’s excitement to go there and to have our best performance yet. Some of the fixtures against France in the past are up there with my favourite games that I’ve been involved in.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HJBHLTD7ZRHZTOYYUKNLISQOPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Marseille last year was a special venue to play in, very cool. Thinking back to the Aviva in ‘23, unbelievable atmosphere, very good game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AEGW3VTXSRAHNJ2UZCCCY7Z6RA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“One of the highest ball-in-play times I think that we’ve had. So, it’s two teams with an attacking mindset and attacking desire, and hopefully it will make for a good watch.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"HAGTHJB2JRAXZNI47K6DXH24AI","additional_properties":{"_id":"GLNTKCU4LZEX7EHPAYS6ZGPJLI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440060110},"id":"timestamp-24549","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"RMWJVXFJZJGGXPLGWZVILJX6IM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Antoine Dupont</b> <b>(France):</b> “Ireland have lost very few matches, they have a very rigorous system that we know. They’re (strong) attacking and defending. They have very clear processes that allow them to win matches against all the teams in the world.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3BZZ4JJ6NDIZDQE3C2HQE6BDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They’re doing a very good job - it also pushes us to be at our best level to be able to compete with this kind of team. It will be up to us to be the master of our game, not to make mistakes, not to give the opportunity to the Irish to attack us with penalties.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G6QG24IAZNEYTIB6RKGFRM3IOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We know when it’s like that they’re hard to stop. We see all the games played on their defence, they almost always manage to slow down the ball. It’s a very well done job.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXHX3MZOINFP7L432O32VJNK4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We see that they know the laws very well and that they are at the limit of being penalised – they’re not always at the limit, they’re very good at it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7NCWMNZUZHVLH7SBVQ7XEG4EA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So, it’s up to us to do our best to get fast ball, and if they are at the limit, we hope we’ll do very well. We’ll play fair, but we’re not worried about it.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LJ5NBOUJA5GAXCYJLIBKF67L2A","additional_properties":{"_id":"DAU56KSG5JAGXECRNBWEK4T2KA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440342161},"id":"timestamp-44625","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"JJHVFXKECNAWVF4VPUTK3D4JOM","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"BSAMLTJBFJGRPHCC2QR4GMWXTE","additional_properties":{"_id":"SS57ET2IXBE37M6Q6CKR6FSDR4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741440408422},"id":"timestamp-59796","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BJ6IK4B62NAMNOORTWJ26ZEKXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"One of Ireland’s 50-cappers, Finlay Bealham, gets interviewed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z3IXZLX3XVE2LOTLCRIDPH4734","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"V3QSYVTHI5CRJHFU4OWPD4IR5Q","additional_properties":{"_id":"74W7SDMPAVARNFBHKXBWKJWPUA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741441097104},"id":"timestamp-42611","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"EIIVQXXDNNHQXHDLNWXI4TXGI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the the Six Nations (2000–present), Ireland have played France on 25 occasions,<b> Ireland winning 11, France 12 and two matches have been drawn</b>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BBM42YJNNCNTDFEDJTO3FHYM4","additional_properties":{"_id":"SMHVRAEV3ZAYFIPIQYKVEUKTJQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741441232912},"id":"timestamp-45202","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"U5K3CKX2CJFYRMXDOF6PS4UW6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"The French Rugby Federation (FFR) estimate that there are 10,000 French supporters in Dublin although walking around the city there seems to be a great deal more. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AHCGEDS3NJFKPLVIO6CD73IPQM","additional_properties":{"_id":"JEXFZ2W4HJGIPECORXULKUCYY4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741441342822},"id":"timestamp-77346","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3BVO7SKF75H6XFPEE3CXVVHEJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND INJURY ALERT:</b> James Lowe has just limped down the tunnel. Received treatment to his hip and looks in a lot of discomfort. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DMVECYAFERFQFAL52FMLRX2SXY","additional_properties":{"_id":"OEKWKTNWGRDFPDLL57WJCO3NXE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442144689},"id":"timestamp-22169","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CJHLETDUAZACPHOMYDSNW2KQDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Murray Kinsella caught the on-pitch treatment. Calvin Nash has his bib off and is running on the right wing in the warm-up with Jamie Osborne switching to the left wing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBIBAQEVSRBPJA6DLRJ7F72WAI","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"DUZCQCQQFJEQPNJNLJRHJZSKXA","additional_properties":{"_id":"RHAMO6D5GRF43IXOG3TUY7OOWA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442394662},"id":"timestamp-62153","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OLAEXD6FOVHHHGNFHCLGO6WVLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>JAMES LOWE IS OUT. CALVIN NASH IN AND WILL WEAR 11 JERSEY.</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"N7WH2JH3O5EOTIDNAP2LLY7HFU","additional_properties":{"_id":"I5BOXX2GJZH5XPI7IWJ4S7XP3I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442444080},"id":"timestamp-97268","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LTMBSGDWRRE5NFX54ZR3OY4KJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowe suffered a back spasm. Ireland’s two first choice wings, Hansen and Lowe miss out. Over to Osborne and Nash. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2TCOTVQ6IJDZXFSL52LGBNK5RI","additional_properties":{"_id":"XGYGG3XTUJFENNCHIL6JQMSZGE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442591833},"id":"timestamp-14526","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3REF6RWWWVFWZFT4AMZXDVS37I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The teams are out for the anthems. 10 minutes to kickoff. There will be a minute’s silence for the former Irish international late Dr Bill Mulcahy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"2E5J4U7HPZHPJCYEJ7XM47H3C4","additional_properties":{"_id":"ZAVZSZ2CRBFWJLONAEWUDJI5GI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741442847566},"id":"timestamp-18070","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"6XZQ4EIGU4TCVMU7L6RHAG3EEI","additional_properties":{"_id":"IRZYNORGPRBOBMVS3OTEZE5A3Q"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FWD6QNFBQJANDOI4LQKFDRXMJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":"H2MPTSM3BNGLLIJ57BHFC2GA7M"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741443367758},"id":"timestamp-15616","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"E5Q23HBMLBF2BN6GPFLK5LWDBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"There’s no doubting the emotion of the occasion for several of the Irish line-up, exemplified by Peter O’Mahony and Cian Healy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3Z2PGMVX3JHIPHUKXLGOLKYPD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Time for kickoff. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IH4QRSJ5D5HBBBUYMAYOSHJSYQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"DES4YCFCNRCJTBVJCPAIZZW26Q"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741443497625},"id":"timestamp-54756","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"C2PCSMQYLRGJDJQQ3X7HIEJSYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>1 min:</b> Great start for Calvin Nash, super chase and take of Jamison Gibson-Park’s high ball. That’s nice width and change-up from Ireland. Nash involved again but the move peters out with a handling error. Bundee Aki receives treatment after receiving a ball to the face.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YMYGZKCBN5GKJG7HS7AIZKTUWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"FG24NY4QXJA6PPCSZ3UMIQTC5E","additional_properties":{"_id":"JI36MX7XHRHZRCH7YCTJZTTJFA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741443969607},"id":"timestamp-8548","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4YESLANHANF7RAO3P5VE7I2X5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>4 mins:</b> First scrum, Ireland put-in. Re-set. Ireland get free-kick for early engagement. Ireland win a penalty after Dupont is penalised for offside. Prendergast kicks into French 22. Tadhg Beirne wins lineout. Dan Sheehan breaks off, grounded short. Dupont offside again and Ireland get a penalty. That’s three penalties and a free kick that France have conceded. Sheehan with a quick tap and Caelan Doris gets held up over the line. Goal-line drop out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"B4EJLOK64ZA4FNFFXNVOMZ3CBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"W5K4ZPOTHVBRNFKNJEFEY7SXGY","additional_properties":{"_id":"2UCNOUH4BRCCXC3KXUV7XVJRNI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444091735},"id":"timestamp-78469","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KC2INZJQIBC7BLCARGMKF5VXJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"7<b> mins: </b>Superbly direct from Ireland, Josh van der Flier and Aki making some serious yards deep inside French 22 but the visitors win a turnover penalty at a ruck. Gregory Alldritt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPQFFJWLW5HIDORYLITJ3KFHKE","additional_properties":{"_id":"MTWUFQ46VNDAVJKRRXXTSQNSSI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444110847},"id":"timestamp-87898","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"YTKPDHH3TRCZNBG7JGLSZGUAGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>9 mins: </b>Superb work by Doris<b> </b>to win a ruck penalty but Sam Prendergast sees his kick from the French 10-metre line hits the left hand upright.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZQULQFRYVDY3FGKX2FXKICWEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"TAYTWWZAFVEFFCR3FHDQATQ2VQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"QSKFH743TNC45KDSZNHCSENQ7Q"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444208282},"id":"timestamp-74532","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WEQ2ZTAG3FHSVP5QEHCUF6LQQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>11 mins: </b>France penalised on the double, one for an arm hook at a lineout and the other for offside after a great break from Keenan. Prendergast kicks into the French 22. Peter O’Mahony off the top to Joe McCarthy on the peel, then Doris, then Sheehan, as Ireland inch towards the French line. Brilliant tackle by Louis Bielle-Biarrey on Keenan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z77GS4K4KNA5RJNSEYMX6PSPXU","additional_properties":{"_id":"J6QZTQNVSFAITNGB7BAPQWFG6I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444388481},"id":"timestamp-17863","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MBXDQXUHKVEK3D63RHGULRN53Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>13 mins: </b>Good aggressive defence from the French forces Ireland to lose possession which culminates with Dupont racing under the Irish posts but there are two French knocks-on in the build-up. A scrum on the French 22 is the upshot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34DXNVSYEFGOPEOPKMCBAVIBSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"S3ZPBJ44LFEMLI7HSCLGZ2QAYI","additional_properties":{"_id":"4A2BPXDNCBAQNJYUPRL4E3KLTE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444520438},"id":"timestamp-65557","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HEZPZZY5VZDRFA7PEVY77VLVKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>14 mins: </b>Ireland attack the short-side through Jamie Osborne, Ireland continue to pummel away inside the French 22, but a knock-on from Joe McCarthy and then a penalty at a ruck allows France to get into the Irish half for the first time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EK3TFO67PVGYTLMWOBSEW2ZEDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"U4XSF7J63JBOHGIMUKES6BN3RM","additional_properties":{"_id":"JWRTPP4GNNFJPMLNRQK4EDBXFM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444669718},"id":"timestamp-1238","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZGA4I6QD4RBUHGUPGAIW4IGFU4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>18 mins: </b>Great rip by Osborne but France regain possession only for Doris to win it back. Ireland clear long, France respond in kind before Prendergast finds touch in the French half. Doris is having a huge game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3PP6K7JAANCBZGRSW7BWVYJOUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSCTIT6EGFA4TA5ISX636755HA","additional_properties":{"_id":"PURJ3UOT7ZAKHLEWHNOHARVDIQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741444822193},"id":"timestamp-41014","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7HSZ3GGCHZELPE4KKMH4S7BY7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>19 mins: </b>France counterattack, Bielle-Biarrey chips and chases but McCarthy’s actions in pulling back a support player, think it was Thomas Ramos, gets him a yellow card. Silly, silly. France kick to the corner. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3WKTYSZQHNAOZLOL5DVBSSZVFY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>YELLOW CARD:</b> McCarthy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7HZP4TMEXZFP7BIOUVQNOGWCE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 0</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJKQKRSYXFDLFNIVT7FWHGLG7I","additional_properties":{"_id":"MSCW57NQTBBG3NVYY7VHQV47FI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445007282},"id":"timestamp-1675","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"VZ4EKRHLYNFAXCZXHQQ6WXANIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>TRY: Bielle-Biarrey. </b>France get their maul going forward and two passes down the short-side send Bielle-Biarrey over in the corner. That comes off Ireland having 70 percent possession. The visitors show them how to be ruthless in the scoring zone. Ramos misses the conversion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LJOXQENGVVALJJB2YSJ4NYARQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 5</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOBP4WLYAVGRZPFIQREXDBQCCE","additional_properties":{"_id":"EXZZJOGP65AA7B7BRROKXZEWDI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445339379},"id":"timestamp-38510","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BGLFOPMGCVE4XHVQTBQUHFHDOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>27 mins: </b>Ireland under pressure again. Referee Angus Gardner is fighting a running battle with Ireland about wishing to speed up lineout and play on. He’s ignoring any injury issues. Then he wants to play on when Dupont is injured. Dupont is gone. France complaining about the clear-out. Alldritt wants him to look at it again. Gardner says that they have and it’s just a rugby collision/injury.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDDFSZO2XBB4ZIA7GV7K4YOFLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Maxime Lucu is on. France now have seven forwards left on the bench. Gamble doesn’t pay off. Bielle-Biarrey with a chip through. He claims that he is tackled late. No one else agrees though. McCarthy is back on the pitch. Ireland get the 22 drop out. Five points conceded in the 22 minutes that McCarthy was off.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EBOQHESTO5HBRC33UNKUEGZ4GM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 5</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ORWYAUJIJBBTFNMGFOPHROQ32A","additional_properties":{"_id":"FXZTVMBLFFBTPEV22KDF5SKXDM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445716820},"id":"timestamp-11837","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2RK6WPXMKNDQNE3OIKECEPNVOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>31 mins: </b>Gardner and Doris are having a long dialogue about keeping distance. Alldritt is back to Gardner about the injury that ended Dupont’s participation. The Australian referee is having none of it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OO5TFUGVPND7JC7Z6PMKQHFZJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 0 France 5</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"KWIRHMBV5BEKTBUBYQBDSSIODQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"CZ37LLZR4JGTLDLJY6V7VAJX4I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741445916742},"id":"timestamp-23609","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LBCKHFVTYJGAFO6MFBN2PRN6VQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>33 mins: PRENDERGAST PENALTY: </b>Ireland go on to attack again, get a lucky ricochet from a kick which Nash collects, two rucks later, Henshaw grubbers through on penalty advantage from a tackle off the ball by Paul Boudehent. Prendergast makes no mistake.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WDRTLLLT4RBABMI3QLGLMNGRN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 3 France 5</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"TQ2RO66D7JHZDGNA6P23BIIFAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"7XPT7EVY4NADHKCOTO5PKVAG3E"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446074586},"id":"timestamp-11099","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"RPR454L57FF3LL6ICMUDMAZX2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>35 mins: RAMOS PENALTY: </b>That’s a ridiculous decision. France giving a penalty for alleged interference from kickoff by Andrew Porter. He did nothing to obstruct Damian Penaud. The French wing bought that penalty. Ramos makes not mistake. That’ll stick in the Irish gut.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LBAR3N54KFEATJ4ECG6LFJXQ2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 3 France 8</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"CXCEYQM64BB5JD2COF7TQT55ZI","additional_properties":{"_id":"EI7BM2LLINHGDOB7FSDBY7ZQDM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446193994},"id":"timestamp-30908","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DJYGXGWAEFDZVOZWMNYSHEHHTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>35 mins: </b>That’s another questionable decision. Osborne brilliant on kick-chase, nabs Penaud eight metres from the French line. Pierre-Louis Barassi clears Doris out from the side but France get a scrum, knock-on is the ruling.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUNLQLNMYZGNPNLSYKM4SWNK2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 3 France 8</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"QTU6BYXLD5AABGOEKJFJZM7H3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":"THTSI5UNHJGLHPRDPTE5W2SCZE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446375313},"id":"timestamp-1479","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DS6FB2DLBBCIVITTJEWXVXVRYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>40(+1) mins: </b>Ireland are claiming that there was a head shot on Porter. Referee is unmoved rightly pointing out that if there was it will be called. The home side have a penalty on the halfway line. Prendergast thumps it over. Superb strike.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BM4JKIWFFNAG7K6RRN4JD4UDFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 6 France 8</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"FRREY3EVL5GJ5IWJVFHV3AGA6E","additional_properties":{"_id":"2MUU5NSTLFBSBD572HM4QPBZ44"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446533761},"id":"timestamp-47861","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"OPCYK67ZDZCD5FTAFTY34PRX4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Half-time: Ireland 6 France 8</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SRHDY75QW5HGBEWQYOXEUIKF34","additional_properties":{"_id":"HYVXLVECTVHENE6G2PYCSIZMCU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741446555817},"id":"timestamp-15613","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KLESXVWG3VGGNKPFD2CDN5BJWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Where to start. Ireland dominate the first 20-minutes only to fall to a sucker punch score on virtually the first occasion that France get into their 22. French wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey scores a try for the seventh time in the last seven Tests. Ireland lost Joe McCarthy to a yellow card for a silly pull back on Thomas Ramos. It was during his absence that France scored, the launchpad a lineout maul, where McCarthy’s power was missed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WEAB7ZMB4BGCZLE2LW3ACSGKHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The visitors lost captain Antoine Dupont to what looked like a knee injury, when he was cleared-out at the ruck. Twice subsequently Dupont’s successor as captain, Alldritt, went to match referee Angus Gardner to ask him to get the officials to have a look at the incident. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"FGA6Y5JTBJABDB6PQGM7T3IRHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prendergast, who had earlier hit an upright with a penalty, landed his next opportunity but Ireland then conceded a similiar opportunity, a ridiculously harsh decision. Ramos kicked it but in first half injury time Prendergast landed a monster penalty from the halfway line. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"L32T2ID4QVGHXHK3UUPE6QIZHE","additional_properties":{"_id":"XSARK46VCBCX5MFZSBAK7EQWA4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447196995},"id":"timestamp-32751","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"VMAC4PE4RVHUTLL5DI5IY63G4Y","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"BGODTRHCQVB6TN7GNSOYBNQUNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"U7YELITFEFABTPHR7OM35IHKMY"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447245900},"id":"timestamp-35099","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ECJSFNJGKZGYPBIA7WJY5O6UOA","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"OOTAY5QHENBGZDALHEMV5IYQ5A","additional_properties":{"_id":"GRLXX45EDZGWPE5B5IOHGK46JE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447327726},"id":"timestamp-55907","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"P5OW4DADU5DNVCK4KXN6FASXTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Looked at the Dupont incident. The French scrumhalf was trying to jackal when Tadhg Beirne, propelled by those behind him, looked to clear out legitimately and drove Dupont backwards at an angle. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZA426WBSO5ASFHXGC6OUAFWFGY","additional_properties":{"_id":"NMJQQNKI3BCMXP66DRDDVAQRZY"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447451297},"id":"timestamp-74268","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"G4V23FIODZBTNC46XVH66HQTY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>42 mins:</b> Ireland bought a penalty there after sustained pressure, Bielle-Biarrey caught offside.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KNBWXZIEXZBDRA7U7IVUUZ26D4","additional_properties":{"_id":"VPEKNNAGUZHY5NNSXM6IIIJ2OI"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447557335},"id":"timestamp-47714","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4FU77QBT4BEWPJGMFFC5VMKCCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>43 mins: TRY SHEEHAN. </b>Ireland kick the penalty to the corner. Beirne with the take and the Irish maul is well-crafted, moves forward, and then Sheehan breaks off the back and drives through the tackle of Lucu for a fine try. Prendergast lands the touchline conversion, a lovely kick. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AX4G4LBFK5FTVOEU6MIV4UYUMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 8 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"X7S3UNA2FJD57FYFI5UCCVLV7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":"RZQIBFYXCNHBFEMHQSFUQP5TCQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447680807},"id":"timestamp-58939","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"DDV34UD6AFHPPC6YRHNCCSGRXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Whatever was said by Ireland coach Simon Easterby has worked nicely. Ireland were bright again from the opening whistle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SA3O7FQKR5BHZATIT4JWRNWKQM","additional_properties":{"_id":"3TYKIY7FD5CEXHYBJ5NGHKZPG4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741447784218},"id":"timestamp-87694","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"74SNBBBUYJDZNIHDUFJD4AITOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>46 mins: TRY BOUDEHENT.</b> France on penalty advantage power their way forward, winning each collision and eventually, Ireland run out of numbers and Boudehent forces his way over. The visitors were on penalty advantage. The TMO, Ian Tempest, comes in to draw attention to a head collision. Nash receives a yellow card for his head clash on Barassi. They look at an incident in the build-up but Gardner on review says that a clear-out on O’Mahony was legal. He awards the try and Ramos kicks the conversion. Barassi is off for a HIA. Oscar Jegoum, a flanker is on in the midfield.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FBLLD2BUVJGBFKBORVRV2OT5JQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 15</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"BKQ22EOBX5AGJCPOL2VVPPRXNU","additional_properties":{"_id":"JLMSOKUWMJFU3NY645KWVM7IJU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448083259},"id":"timestamp-14146","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"SPPFIZXV25ADXFTJIULJKWQPKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>48 mins: </b>Nash is in the sin bin under review for his yellow card. Decision is in. It’ll remain a yellow. Barassi is undergoing a HIA. Jack Conan is on for O’Mahony who receives a huge ovation in his last game at the Aviva Stadium. Ryan ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3CMMXWSWMVH43L3QS56IRQPGPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>49 mins: TRY Bielle-Biarrey.</b> France on a sweeping counter-attack go down the wing where Nash would have been - he’s still in the bin - work the ball wide to Bielle-Biarrey, the wing hits the afterburners, grubbers and wins the footrace. Ramos kicks the conversion. The French make four changes to their pack. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D7DB77SQKZCCHC524LUCCYHUS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 22 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNIRFZMGPRCQLJFRS5CR7CSECA","additional_properties":{"_id":"ESF3AODCZBB3BJDFGLBQESKT24"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448368500},"id":"timestamp-62476","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7IRZDCC4BZG3ZOU5GXONNSE3FE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>55 mins: RAMOS PENALTY. </b>A blue tidal wave. France back on the attack and they are within metres of the Irish line when Doris is pinged for playing the nine, Lucu. Alldritt turns to Ramos to kick the penalty and the French fullback duly obliges. Jack Crowley is on for Ireland; he’ll play in the centre. Aki is off. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"S6UVR6TLJNCG5FZLCZ3OHZ2NWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 25 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VR2EZ4M7BEI5MJDKJDLYWZYBM","additional_properties":{"_id":"BFMBQPNV2RFHVGZQO6R5GYSRLE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448596301},"id":"timestamp-4462","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HRMZ5TAKFZAKHCHSE7S2OTWCW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>56 mins: Nash is back on, Ireland are back to 15 players. The damage has been done. </b>James Ryan is on for McCarthy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MSHHBK4AKJHBBP5MNTNWWGEFLA","additional_properties":{"_id":"XY4A3VUG7VGKLBACKLKXZFTX4M"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448711553},"id":"timestamp-81502","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"QC3EXRG2XRGGRFPXVO57MJQHCA","additional_properties":{},"content":" <b>58 mins: TRY JEGOU. </b>The impact of the French bench and Ireland going down to 14 players has resulted in the visitors running riot. They’ve been breathtaking in the rugby they’ve played.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2P643OURORE7TGKRAEPTG6HBX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 32</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OTNZ4F43KZGYJC73Y4CVJNDK64","additional_properties":{"_id":"7QOKVQC3IBADRCVMTEQ5MA4YU4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448849743},"id":"timestamp-91302","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2LOPJH5Q3BBP3GXZDZWNI43YLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>France have scored 24 points in second half 12 minutes and claimed a four try bonus point. </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ACT4WIGIF5HRTPEW332LM2OXJ4","additional_properties":{"_id":"7ZQFPK5CYJDGTF7ES6Y773NTMM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741448917709},"id":"timestamp-65418","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"6Y4BGFOIXZBNXCNODOJBIRR734","additional_properties":{},"content":"France have scored 29-points from seven visits to the Ireland 22. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSCLKXQBLZGZHIKPVHSVC7YNQY","additional_properties":{"_id":"EMLVXMHIURDYPL34LLNNLWH7IM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449100992},"id":"timestamp-81384","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ESR57UAV3BGO7O2SW6LXVNDRYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>64 mins:</b> <b>RAMOS PENALTY</b>: Doris goes off for a HIA. Van der Flier back on. Prendergast on a wrap around but he tries to take the space and gets collared by Jegou. The pass might have been the better option there. France are utterly dominant. Ireland penalised again at a ruck. Ramos points at the points.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ETNGFNXPFDF7CIBOL676GWBP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 35 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"QE7MPBLWC5DXPKD7AHWWYLIBIM","additional_properties":{"_id":"TBHYWANCYZE4HJ7RAJ7JFB26SU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449327950},"id":"timestamp-19047","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WZLCSFD3RFEZHBD2LPFZSMIQYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>68 mins: </b>Cian Healy, Rob Herring and Conor Murray are on for Porter, Sheehan and Gibson-Park.<b> </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQIO6QCYRJG43LSBXKGAWQNBVY","additional_properties":{"_id":"2LGYZKYE3FH4XPBDMBNV2U2ACE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449530742},"id":"timestamp-66976","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"D2LKZIHO5ZA6LGCXK6URKJOI6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>69 mins: </b>Ireland with a great try scoring chance but Robbie Henshaw steps back inside rather than looking at the man outside. Conor Murray then gets over the line but replacement prop Cyril Baille gets underneath him and denies him a try. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RZVUC5FEFVEZROK4GJQYLFDQNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 35 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"VRXNADF4TZHLHBPYCHPJ7QOTCM","additional_properties":{"_id":"DEJ5WNH535EVPK5CTLGNDUQZYA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449696884},"id":"timestamp-86374","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"WNEQ2HGO3FAR3C3CTUOD7ZLNLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>72 mins: </b>Prendergast with a couple of chips through that he might like over again but Ireland are at least showing character. There accuracy though in the French 22 is seriously lacking. Right on cue Prendergast’s pass six metres from the French line was intercepted by Ramos and he released Penaud who races 75 metres to score under the posts. Ramos converts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"REPUZGTZ3FFUZKW5DAIB2SPEC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 13 France 42 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZXRFGEUWVE43FPKOKYVEC3GBQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"RCIW2GQU6NHO7BBLWMTOH6UGQQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741449953057},"id":"timestamp-93227","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HZGRAEVKANFOJCR7F567GY3Y5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>77 mins: TRY HEALY. </b>In his 137th game for Ireland and the final one at the Aviva Stadium, grabs a try. It’s a lovely personal moment. Prendergast converts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YCWI4Y4J65F7XO63AFL5LUNYN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 20 France 42 </b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"6RYF5F6WIJB2LLBXTQCKQXAOAE","additional_properties":{"_id":"PJJUVYPPUVG5RFA7455JWPUYQM"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741450177609},"id":"timestamp-23645","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"V24GVNXITVCH7GCZT72YLZ376Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>80(+1) CONAN TRY. </b>Prendergast with a quick tap penalty and Conan grabs a second Irish try in three minutes. Prendergast lands the conversion but it’s nothing more than window dressing on the scoreboard. France were stunning for half an hour in the second half, played glorious rugby and were worthy winners. Ireland can and will have no complaints. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QIFVYOEZQBHZ3BU63TL3YI3NJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland 27 France 42</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RQFBCMFEFBAHBZMTQHCWV5YEY","additional_properties":{"_id":"QXPBUQU2XBGGFIRBJRRVJFH2VY"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741450375623},"id":"timestamp-60089","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LSTQNV4S3ZHZTB4FND6PEQKB34","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Fulltime: Ireland 27 France 42</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"LTFG5YN2CFCXDOAPYFCWQMWSVM","additional_properties":{"_id":"LIIYUMEYUVFZTL6OUHSUMBVNFQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741450741843},"id":"timestamp-14290","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"I33XSZ3JQZEFPJPOS7POUGS5KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That was a chastening afternoon for Ireland, the first in a very long time. Forget about the late salvo that yielded 14-points and tries for replacements Cian Healy and Jack Conan. It won’t console players of Irish supporters. The home side received a lesson today in how to ruthlessly finish off opportunities. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"K3IN23DF6VB3LAEFZNGW2CVMF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"France did this without captain, Antoine Dupont whom they lost to a knee injury in the first half, centre Pierre-Louis Barassi (HIA) in the second and ended with up replacement and try scorer Oscar Jegou, a flanker playing in the centre. Louis Bielle-Biarrey demonstrated why he is one of the best players in the world with a brace of tries, Damian Penaud’s breakaway effort saw him equal the French try scoring record held by Serge Blanco.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VJCDBDGPPBCDZDF53MD3JPXUPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"French head coach Fabien Galthié‘s decision to opt for a 7-1 split on the bench, despite the injuries to two backs, proved to be a masterstroke as the arrival of the front five pack replacements had a significant impact on the outcome. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PWL4JAVG7ZFRBISVMNGJ7PVRGQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"22G6L6E5VBFFLFGB3TUHBG5RC4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741451400504},"id":"timestamp-78408","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"Z4P6DH3TPRFGHHMJRUKI5FNW2A","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"C3FGBV6MFJFMND7NHNPTDGOWUE","additional_properties":{"_id":"AH5W6334FFCU5LAXBBCRKGWMMA"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741451426329},"id":"timestamp-55434","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"VYJRMVZWSZCEJHLNDORU3I2BEQ","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"OK7IUCOLLFFPRB5VSG2MEBBWG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Seems appropriate","type":"text"},{"_id":"OPWS5MVIGBGM7KMOLALFQWQTMA","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"TA6EPWXXJJG6FLNGNDGUW3M5NU","additional_properties":{},"content":"I’m almost afraid to look but Johnny Watterson’s Ireland player ratings are imminent. He’s been chewing on the top of the red pen. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"7BD2N3E6F5E27BR2U3BFVP2DBI","additional_properties":{"_id":"JAA27DMH2ZDULDAWRNS5PATY6U"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452046882},"id":"timestamp-67971","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"GT26ZFJZEBGG5BQWRJAYMNEV5U","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"THBWEIXITNGHFA4SVW4TX5V5QM","additional_properties":{"_id":"2CKFHQEQZBHWRFSJBGPUAMYXP4"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452181293},"id":"timestamp-13098","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"N44X6QE2XZBXVCGE7OJ4KYVPPA","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"GQABPCVMPNHH7IN56WNWOTVJII","additional_properties":{},"content":"A look at Dan Sheehan’s try.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EZZEHZFTV5FFZGKIPGTIC7NGCM","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"IJ2FQ44JOVDW7LWY4UICWLBKIQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"NJR6MMA6IVFGTBHB4IXZRYLQSU"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452697813},"id":"timestamp-99024","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HSMCAQYGOBE6TKD427AVRGFBEE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Johnny Watterson’s player ratings are in, three Irish players get seven, the highest mark, one of which is captain, Caelan Doris. Johnny wrote: “The lineout worked and he was a good Irish option there. Made some big tackles, notably on Thomas Ramos in the first half, and ground away in the engine room.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ZTIHXQFQBCXTB56RKQIQ4EJBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-27-france-42-how-the-irish-players-rated-at-the-aviva-stadium/?\" target=\"_blank\">You can read the rest of the ratings here.</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"YOH4B6UT3BE5VL3PEQI7OHQ45Q","additional_properties":{"_id":"23HHL5Q65VHVZEEPAEYY5IVU2U"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741452790716},"id":"timestamp-93567","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3WDAGJJCDFDURESXB3LJN6N3YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley’s match report is in. He wrote: “France put Ireland to the sword and utterly obliterated hopes of a Grand Slam, also ending any realistic designs on a historic three-peat next weekend. What’s more, France did so despite losing their talisman early in the piece, so shredding any notion that they might be overly dependent on Antoine Dupont.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GKR6ZZQ3UFD7NJ2CZX2OX3B3VA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Despite one of their battery of backrowers also playing much of the second half in midfield, France’s 7-1 split reaped a rich dividend as their amalgam of power and pace shredded Ireland in the third quarter. Ireland just do not have finishers like the jet-heeled Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Damian Penaud.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5UDPQZIJ6ZAT5EQJMUGMTZTLN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Their defence also smashed Ireland in the collisions, and the injection of the Bomb Squad did not dilute this in any way. Their backrow were immense, particularly Paul Boudehent.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5VZN4GKPRGLJH54PBBIDY7AZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/french-power-game-blows-ireland-off-the-park-as-grand-slam-hopes-obliterated/\" target=\"_blank\">You can read the rest of his report here</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"PNBJ77PK5BCNFKAZHI2PTCJBQQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"SZMPPHW4INCPZD7NS3CUARWR4E"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741453750654},"id":"timestamp-79417","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"FRLTOBL4RBBA3LYTQSTNLQWIZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"What about the lies, damn lies and statistics. Well","type":"text"},{"_id":"AAUNVVYPTJFVXGQ45MMOO7J5NA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland had more attacking minutes 16.8 to 15.1, carried for more metres 886 to 744, beat more defenders 21-19 and had more offloads 9-8 while the French made more line-breaks 6-4, fewer handling errors 11-17 and fewer turnovers 7-11. France made 196 tackles and missed 21 while Ireland made 97 and missed 19. France conceded 13 penalties to Ireland’s six. Ireland had two yellow cards. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHW6CRSOCFD4FAQQL4IMCLRNYU","additional_properties":{"_id":"7EEGWZFQ6RGOPOQVZ4ALA5L77I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741454344637},"id":"timestamp-14194","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"IVZH2EBX35CARMLYOKRGQ4L2GM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>STATE OF THE NATION</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"OUOLSUV25FFMVIU4VQ27TFSSEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland’s pursuit of a third successive victory in the Six Nations is no longer in their hands following their 42-27 defeat to France at the Aviva Stadium.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XQHKPNTYVRDFJAAJD2U3VH6EJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fabien Galthié‘s side are now two points ahead of Ireland in the table going into the final round of fixtures. On the last day, the French host Scotland at the Stade de France (8.0, Irish time). They have a 93-point advantage over Ireland – they travel to Rome to take on Italy – going into next weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NGAGU24NTFEM3C6UA4M45FDARQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"A victory of any nature for France against the Scots in their last match would ensure that Ireland could not catch them. At the very least Ireland would need the Scots to win before any mathematics comes into play. The chances of a ‘three-peat’ of wins in the tournament are remote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UG6JCJD27NEEFJMP45Q6DILDJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"If teams finish level on points, then the standings are decided by points differential. England can overtake Ireland in the table if they beat Italy with a four try, bonus point at Twickenham in Sunday’s game. They would put England second (15 points) behind France (16) with Ireland (14) in third place. England are away to Wales on the final weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQYX33W3UZBJ7D3YOMQO7HLPMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Scots have a four try, bonus point racked up already in the first half of their game with Wales but would go into the final weekend on 11 points. Essentially Ireland are looking for favours from their Celtic brothers Scotland and Wales, while also requiring a win in Rome. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"APUV5GSOC5E5ZOYGZDWQUENXRE","additional_properties":{"_id":"EB63A5VF3BDNJD47D56IMIJSYE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741455383069},"id":"timestamp-65316","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7NZJF5PI3JER7EPHKJIMGD5HYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland head coach Simon Easterby: </b>“Disappointing, obviously. We felt like when we went in at half-time 8-6 down, we were well in the game and we were confident that if we started well, which we did in the second half, that we could kick on and make them pay in terms of our fitness and our ability to go well in the second half, which we’ve done in previous games in the tournament.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SIRN4ADWRFCFBNNY3PLWSAVNXQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But unfortunately, we probably just didn’t take enough of our opportunities throughout the game in their 22 and vice versa, we conceded too easily ourselves.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QOMS7Z4PIFBLXPKD4I2IDM3ONU","additional_properties":{"_id":"WYC7Z22B2BGAJGUKVGCPK22T5Q"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741455778930},"id":"timestamp-48013","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZL4J3IUHKRAPVJXT6EZZFCVVKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the incident that saw Dupont suffer a knee injury Easterby said: “I think it’s just a rugby incident where Tadhg (Beirne) cleans out someone in front of Antoine Dupont and he gets hit on the back of that. This happens. We definitely have moved away and players have a real awareness now of cleaning out on the lower limb of the player, which would create that type of injury that might happen today, but that wasn’t the case. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GEC2ET6ZY5CT3PMGG5NERK2WM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He was securing his own ball and not making contact with Dupont and unfortunately that happens. I’ll probably have to look back at it again. We feel like the right decision was made there.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NBXHEYD67JEGRNBAPYL4DIJWZM","additional_properties":{"_id":"MGDZILQ3RJE6VOKYUDGYGWLJYQ"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741456038605},"id":"timestamp-13468","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"U7ODDSTPJ5H4XPBNCDGTJD3I3Q","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"2GRBG7XIEJH4LB7BTUUYGRXC6E","additional_properties":{"_id":"DFSS74T2YZHKPMD2JGSP5LCMBE"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741456298422},"id":"timestamp-59663","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4YHBZ3WEMJGUTCR5ZVSIHJSB7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Midi Olympique give Yoram Moefana (8.5) and Francois Cros (8.5) to top their player ratings while two-try hero, Louis Bielle-Biarrey gets an eight.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D5LXSIJY7ZFJDEFKTNKHFALWHU","additional_properties":{"_id":"NWI55QHEMVBE5KRZCVA2FXPS6I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741456424426},"id":"timestamp-27396","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"KBRQ3WBCEVDC7DNOSAOTBGBPUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"We will have more port match reaction from Gerry Thornley on Simon Easterby’s press conference and Malachy Clerkin who is looking after all things French. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EJNQ5GVNMBFSZFJTGEB45AL5EQ","additional_properties":{"_id":"QU2CTZPT3FGV5OBQMP37SZJN2I"},"embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741456936142},"id":"timestamp-69192","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"LU2UPM7PBZESXANNZHHPTXUHO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Thank you all for your company but hang tough, that reaction is coming.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASPTZP7BR5BRDFIKA2FE4DZYSA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741458981931},"id":"timestamp-30327","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"PACEFBRGFNAYPO2KUVE444CV54","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’re back, and as promised we’ve some post-match reaction for you.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ODD6HSAWSVGVXIETOPFHKTOJA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"First up: Fabien Galthié.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OYNEGBICLJGA5BDQEJU635OGZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Malachy Clerkin sat in on the France head coach’s press conference, and seemingly had to whip out the old English-French dictionary:","type":"text"},{"_id":"FCYOSOY43VHSZOODKEDUEETH74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fabien Galthié was in no mood afterwards. The France coach pointedly didn’t take any questions in English but you didn’t need Duolingo to understand that he had a bone to pick. Losing Antoine Dupont to a serious knee injury midway through the first half coloured his reaction to everything. His captain was in tears in the dressingroom, Pierre-Louis Barassi didn’t make it through a HIA. Galthié was annoyed on both counts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFEQU4R5OFZAJGAWNSWQUGF65E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4GS2RYHHTZDM3AAOCGDS36PMXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Our players did not return to the pitch,” he said. “We would like to understand why. On this issue, we are angry. We want to protect our players. There are means, [there are] rules. The [citing] commissioner must study the actions that are reprehensible or not. Neither Antoine nor Pierre-Louis returned to the pitch. One for a cleaning, the other for a contact.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CE66Q7MGQFDVRGMDLKRRRBIR3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“For Antoine, there is suspicion of a fairly serious knee injury. I won’t go into details due to medical confidentiality, but Antoine is suffering. We have cited players to appear before the [Six Nations disciplinary] committee – Tadhg Beirne and Andrew Porter. Calvin Nash has also been summoned before the committee, for Pierre-Louis Barassi because he did not respond favourably to the protocol.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PWE5GL3B5BDTLKYAE42BH4CPWE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We feel bad for [Antoine]. In terms of the action, in my opinion it was reprehensible, and there are ways to study and analyse it. We feel for him today. He is suffering and we are suffering with him.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQAVG5JOSNHVPPQ2FCPXR27GOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/\">Read Malachy’s full piece from the press conference here</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"MGLFBITCCRF2ZOBKS5HWLETYEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley’s dispatches from Simon Easterby’s press conference will be with us shortly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5AFNLEVZU5FWVIRQW623SPCX6Q","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741461153043},"id":"timestamp-76723","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"7RDUES46IFG3HITYU5P3T4VWSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"And Gerry Thornley’s piece from the Ireland press conference is in:","type":"text"},{"_id":"JIM4QQWAGZGLZM4DCH2CQ4JSRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s been a long, long time since an Irish team has been rolled over in such a lopsided manner, especially at home. The home team and the home crowd, who were even more comprehensively second best, were left reeling as France scored 34 unanswered points in a blue blur of power and pace.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JB57JJRMWRH6LNHGIJVSCLQPTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Unbeaten at home in the Six Nations since France won here behind closed doors in 2021, Ireland had seemed relatively well set, or at any rate highly competitive, when Dan Sheehan’s 43rd-minute try and Sam Prendergast’s touchline conversion put them 13-8 ahead. Even interim head coach Simon Easterby felt so.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZOLM7SU4BD6JKIDK3HJJKIOTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We felt like going in at half-time 8-6 down we were well in the game, and we were confident that if we started well – which we did – in the second half, we could kick on and make them pay, in terms of our fitness and our ability to go well in second halves, which we have done in previous games.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ARAETKEMMFGUBMVYL44HRKCJAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But, unfortunately, we probably didn’t take enough of our opportunities in their 22, and vice versa, we conceded too easily ourselves.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XB3MAAK3ZZHVBII7EOF6IKJH6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-boss-simon-easterby-pinpoints-chances-not-taken-and-ones-given-up-too-easy/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-boss-simon-easterby-pinpoints-chances-not-taken-and-ones-given-up-too-easy/\">Read Gerry’s full piece from the press conference here</a>","type":"text"},{"_id":"II6Q5TCFPBCNVBW7LPFOR27QIY","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741461396610},"id":"timestamp-62052","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5JHY42WYAZAF7GP2SS5E5DQTHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"That’s all from us for today.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVGM2COB7VEVLIDHEX5DZ6XZTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"A disappointing result but them’s the breaks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SSB4OSM2TNCTJNEBDEXU2BHOYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Before we go, Scotland are after beating Wales 35-29 (<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/\">read the report from Murrayfield here</a>). So that just leaves England v Italy tomorrow (kick-off 3pm).","type":"text"},{"_id":"O76GKZEE7JDWBD6JWVJIQTH7QY","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’ll be back here this day next week for Super Saturday. Until then, take it easy.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"free"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"John O'Sullivan"}},"name":"John O'Sullivan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Ireland beaten 42-27 at the Aviva Stadium"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T19:20:25.258Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland v France: Les Bleus run riot to win in Dublin – As it happened","native":""},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RBEDTALO2OAN6TUGF3BRUDR7OU","auth":{"1":"44ce116b0ef8737c4aa19e2f74f6f94d1138aa7d841150cd0e207cb2f5fc915b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RBEDTALO2OAN6TUGF3BRUDR7OU.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"live-story","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-v-france-live-updates-from-crunch-six-nations-clash-at-the-aviva/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"XQ5ZWVXA6VHN3NHMIEX55OK76A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":336,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/9fa6db04-c2d9-476a-bff8-f96e7e63f9cf/versions/1741462553/media/0f69fd5822553370ed63abdc7ac0c08d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/","content_elements":[{"_id":"BZPGN4NZEZDGXK5XZCU5SSADNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six Nations: Scotland 35 Wales 29","type":"header"},{"_id":"7QIQSF7EN5DOBETQZY7GMID7XA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tom Jordan and Blair Kinghorn both scored doubles in <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scotland-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/scotland-rugby/\">Scotland</a>’s five-try 35-29 victory over <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/wales-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/wales-rugby/\">Wales</a> at Murrayfield as the visitors went down to a 16th consecutive Test defeat and a 10th straight loss in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\">Six Nations</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U6N4FK6URRBXXKCK6K2H4EXQ7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"With their own hopes of contending for the title already over after losing their previous two matches against Ireland and England, the Scots needed a strong response against a struggling Welsh side intent on backing up a heartening display against Ireland in Matt Sherratt’s first game in interim charge.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HN64KM7X5RFXZLDZNVPEY4STEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For the most part, Gregor Townsend’s side delivered as they ran in four tries before the break to lead by 20 points before opening up a 35-8 lead by the hour, leaving them on course to eclipse their record 28-point victory over the Welsh two years ago.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U5QG75UVB5HYJCJI34CXEM5N5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, as the Scots suffered one of their trademark flaky periods in the final quarter, Wales – who scored in the first half through Blair Murray – made the scoreline far more respectable with tries from Ben Thomas, Teddy Williams and Max Llewellyn.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5JK4BJGYTRC6BBOOXY5FDAMRDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland co-captain Finn Russell had come under scrutiny after missing all three of his goal-kicks against England last time out, but this time his contribution from the tee proved crucial as he bounced back to nail all five of his conversions before being replaced just after the hour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HA57OVTQJ5CDPNUSRZWN5EGR5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"With Murrayfield bathed in glorious spring sunshine as the players took to the field, the visitors made a bright start, getting off the mark with less than three minutes on the clock through Gareth Anscombe’s penalty.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTGT4C7BTVCFFBV6QNOCZGMVXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland soon sparked into life, however, and they got themselves up and running with a superb multiphase try in the fifth minute. Darcy Graham – back in the side after concussion – was instrumental, darting incisively towards the 22 before a perfectly-timed pass over his left shoulder to Kinghorn, who powered beyond the challenge of Anscombe to score.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3TYM5FJZXPI2H4FAAXQQO3HG7Q","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NF4SDJF6WBFJJMAZRXH43D55FM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Welsh were undone again in the 11th minute when Jordan raced in behind the posts to finish off a lovely flowing move involving Duhan van der Merwe and Huw Jones.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YRNDN3ATWJFLHHXNIVMDHKC66M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland had some sloppy moments when they got into promising positions, paving the way for Wales to reduce their deficit in the 24th minute as Anscombe’s deft chip over the top sent Murray scampering in for an easy touchdown. Anscombe hit the post with his conversion attempt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BUWBL4ZK2FDCFKRTSYENONPMOA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The hosts reasserted their authority in the 27th minute when Graham burst over for the 30th try of his Test career after some sublime play from Russell, selling Anscombe a dummy, to set him clear.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JFCXLGMAOVCHHE5FR6COWAOE7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"A Welsh meltdown just after the half-hour allowed the men in dark blue to extend their advantage to 20 points. Prop Willgriff John was sinbinned for cynical play in the 31st minute, and Scotland swiftly scored again following some calamitous play from the visitors inside their own 22.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RLULMXVLJBCFTOPF5DAKRDZVMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ben Thomas’ kick to the right was overhit and as Murray – at full stretch – just managed to flick it back in to Thomas, the centre fumbled the ball allowing Jordan to dash in for his second of the match.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PJ7U4KXABVCFVECFL55P63J6RU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland’s backs were having a field day and Kinghorn followed Jordan in doubling his tally eight minutes after the interval after good play from Jones and Russell to send him through a gap.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7ZYUE7GWNGC3JHNDNNQKXCHFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Wales’ deficit was trimmed to 20 points once more in the 61st minute when Thomas made amends for his earlier error by evading Van der Merwe and Zander Fagerson to bolt over, with replacement Jarrod Evans adding the extras.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPDCYQJZO5BIJASVM5VB74X5LU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland, having looked so comfortable on the hour, suddenly seemed rattled and Wales roared back to within just six points by close of play as Williams and Llewellyn both crossed the whitewash to earn two unlikely losing bonus points.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W64IZ2LRLFCZ5HAHC3PL3PMOCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>SCOTLAND</b>: B Kinghorn (Toulouse); D Graham (Edinburgh), H Jones (Glasgow), T Jordan (Glasgow), D van der Merwe (Edinburgh); F Russell (Bath, capt), B White (Toulon); P Schoeman (Edinburgh), D Cherry (Edinburgh), Z Fagerson (Glasgow); J Gray (Bordeaux), G Gilchrist (Edinburgh); J Ritchie (Edinburgh), R Darge (Glasgow, capt), J Dempsey (Glasgow).","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z6SI435TJVGMVEIA5JLRTZZP3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> M Fagerson (Glasgow) for Darge (35 mins); G Horne (Glasgow) for White, E Ashman (Edinburgh) for Cherry (both 56); S McDowall (Glasgow) for Russell, R Sutherland (Glasgow) for Schoeman, W Hurd (Leicester) for Z Fagerson (all 62); G Brown (Glasgow) for Gray, K Rowe (Glasgow) for Graham (both 67).","type":"text"},{"_id":"S5EMNB3OGBFSDNDKE3JPDYNKC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>WALES:</b> B Murray (Scarlets); T Rogers (Scarlets), M Llewellyn (Gloucester), B Thomas (Cardiff), E Mee (Scarlets); G Anscombe (Gloucester), T Williams (Gloucester); N Smith (Leicester), E Dee (Dragons), W John (Sale Sharks); W Rowlands (Racing 92), D Jenkins (Exeter); J Morgan (Ospreys, capt), T Reffell (Leicester), T Faletau (Cardiff).","type":"text"},{"_id":"KLCDQTNJSRERVCPBACWCYIWOVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> J Roberts (Scarlets) for Rogers (9 mins); K Assiratti (Cardiff) for Refell (35-40 mins) and for John (45); D Lake (Ospreys) for Dee, A Wainwright (Dragons) for Refell (both 45); J Evans (Harlequins) for Anscombe, G Thomas (Ospreys) (both 56); T Williams (Cardiff) for Rowlands (63); R Williams (Dragons) for T Williams (69).","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCATHTLVNVGOLDX7R5C5QT3TQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Yellow card:</b> John (31 mins). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"N4GTHIS5PJGAHNG55XFYTIJNX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> A Piardi (Ita).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Wales cut the deficit after the break as Scotland took foot off the gas"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T19:08:43.546Z","headlines":{"basic":"Scotland run in five tries as Wales continue losing run despite late fightback","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"CR4KON4WTP65ZW2HEDTM4YWHKA","auth":{"1":"6888a77ff76210dc40f00e195ed8411c9a85a4032f483a38c733d5de5778247d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CR4KON4WTP65ZW2HEDTM4YWHKA.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/scotland-run-in-five-tries-as-wales-continue-losing-run-despite-late-fightback/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"X23QZDD6GFG2LONH5XQDY5PFKM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":259,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/aea761d7-1f00-4397-8f1b-1cbb0131ce0c/versions/1741460660/media/7aef663894d6008fd2ccd48c1a0899ad_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-boss-simon-easterby-pinpoints-chances-not-taken-and-ones-given-up-too-easy/","content_elements":[{"_id":"MQ4MZGGF6FDQBG67S6PTK2PHBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s been a long, long time since an <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby\">Irish</a> team has been rolled over in such a lopsided manner, especially at home. The home team and the home crowd, who were even more comprehensively second best, were left reeling as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\">France</a> scored 34 unanswered points in a blue blur of power and pace.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JEMVH4NL6JFTJEHC25QL34TYUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Unbeaten at home in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\">Six Nations</a> since France won here behind closed doors in 2021, Ireland had seemed relatively well set, or at any rate highly competitive, when Dan Sheehan’s 43rd-minute try and Sam Prendergast’s touchline conversion put them 13-8 ahead. Even interim head coach Simon Easterby felt so too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UXAY73DQXBE5ZPQ2FJFOM3MMQM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We felt like going in at half time 8-6 down, we were well in the game, and we were confident that if we started well – which we did – in the second half, we could kick on and make them pay, in terms of our fitness and our ability to go well in second halves, which we have done in previous games.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KZFZT6HLINDV3LW2ODDEJKC2YY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But, unfortunately, we probably didn’t take enough of our opportunities in their 22, and vice versa, we conceded too easily ourselves.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZJ7ITXU4VFCHPEQG2LWKMMF6NY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland can have few complaints after such a sound beating by a French team whose performance made their somewhat self-inflicted loss in Twickenham even more inexplicable. They have a points difference of +106, compared to Ireland’s +13, but more pertinently are also two points ahead of Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNUDR23HJZB6FLCT3UODJBKOMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hence, even if Ireland beat Italy with a bonus point in Rome in next Saturday’s first game of the final day’s triple header, a win of any hue at home to Scotland in the evening’s finale in Paris will guarantee France the title.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FU3K2PFYFASPC5WAQXCABWETE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Like many French teams, they are a brilliant side with momentum, although their flurry of 34 points began with a very contentious call by referee Angus Gardner, with little input from his assistants or the TMO. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DJHU4QBEM5H47BFR7PUEVDVAYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Paul Boudehent took a brilliant offload from Maxime Lucu and plunged over in the 47th minute, the French loosehead Jean-Baptiste Gros had paved the way with a pick and go through a gap created by Thibaud Flament taking out Peter O’Mahony beyond the ball. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CANO7PEJZDRFCJDGLFAPJHYWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The replays clearly indicated it was an illegal act by Flament, but somehow Gardner deduced that O’Mahony was “retreating backwards” and therefore, illogically, that this was no grounds for ruling out the try. Easterby clearly did not agree with Gardner’s interpretation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHWJCYAFW2GF5IOMEHIFI5K564","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"USP4SZBZYJHN7DYWEF5PTHKSD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We didn’t defend well enough in our 22, but certain things that happen in a game, in an instance like that, which are going to prevent someone from potentially making a tackle, and being in a position to try and stop that.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ID3E65RTMRFBNDSBHQJ7PTGXLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“All teams try and do it to a point, they try to create a bit of space through the ruck and that allows the next person to pick. It’s to judge whether that contact on Pete was close enough to the ruck for them to feel like it was legal, which is probably about three or four metres from the ruck. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTDWBPVAXFEFFAB6NMWP3DVTY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That’s something we’ll reflect on and feed back to Angus Gardner and his assistant referees, and obviously the TMO came in and felt like it was legal.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PEQBW7DFT5C65A6PEROXH7SWNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"What’s more, on a previous review after that Boudehent try, Gardner sinbinned Calvin Nash for a head-on-head collision with Pierre-Louis Barassi.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KEPKOBV3QRG5VLQDD6TBTPTM74","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It could have easily just gone as a rugby collision and it could easily have not resulted in a yellow card. But I think the incident with Pete happens in the same set of phases, so that’s not reflective of that try, being down to 14 men.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DBSAITIQJVEZZE2QNICZLQY6SE","additional_properties":{},"content":"France had scored five points during Joe McCarthy’s sinbinning in the first half for a clearcut and ill-advised off the ball tug on Thomas Ramos’s collar, and they added another 10 during Nash’s absence with the fleet-footed Louis Bielle-Barrey scoring tries in each spell against 14 men. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUIZAL52RBAMBCPKDXOYP6URII","additional_properties":{},"content":"Asked if his team had lacked composure after Boudehent’s try, Easterby said: “I don’t know about that. I think we were down a man and they probably got themselves in a position where they took advantage of that 15 against 14. We had it in the first half as well where we conceded a yellow card.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JH4DHJ3IXJAO3ILNUXOOACTIAY","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"5UL342MUGJFWTH3JMC32NKNH5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardner had also been excessively dismissive of Caelan Doris in his dealings with the Irish captain, once asking him if he knew the laws of the game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D2JVE2ORK5BWHOMFU7QUWMFVTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We spoke before the game about picking my moments and not bothering him too much,” said Doris afterwards. “I didn’t feel like I did that. I felt I only approached him a few couple of times early on but it’s always a balancing act and I thought it was okay.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"SETSYHQGEBBLPDBBSXJGD2YJ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gerry Thornley"}},"name":"Gerry Thornley"}]},"description":{"basic":"Interim head coach questions referee’s decision not to penalise France in lead-up to Paul Boudehent’s try "},"display_date":"2025-03-08T18:59:15.609Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland boss Simon Easterby pinpoints chances not taken and ones given up too easy","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KU6NYJK6MALFPGV4FHEY6EXPZA","auth":{"1":"7f1f109249eac66ca151cf6a27952c1b1bd273b71961f216a9d6750cb6ac948c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KU6NYJK6MALFPGV4FHEY6EXPZA.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-boss-simon-easterby-pinpoints-chances-not-taken-and-ones-given-up-too-easy/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"FZWHUWVZJBHDXIXD7Y7OPA2BCA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":223,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/815f2d4d-46be-43e9-b68c-cbe4b957698d/versions/1741458946/media/84366c9a2a82e541ea88a911ed6af524_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5OLVAD7ZC5BEDPPFUREGPRGX7A","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598497},"content":"Fabien Galthié was in no mood afterwards. The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\">France</a> coach pointedly didn’t take any questions in English but you didn’t need Duolingo to understand that he had a bone to pick. Losing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont\">Antoine Dupont</a> to a serious knee injury midway through the first half coloured his reaction to everything. His captain was in tears in the dressingroom, Pierre-Louis Barassi didn’t make it through a HIA. Galthié was annoyed on both counts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G2EZD7EAINC2XFG3LIUU5PA6FE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598498},"content":"“Our players did not return to the pitch,” he said. “We would like to understand why. On this issue, we are angry. We want to protect our players. There are means, [there are] rules. The [citing] commissioner must study the actions that are reprehensible or not. Neither Antoine nor Pierre-Louis returned to the pitch. One for a cleaning, the other for a contact.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J7DCHA6ZGVCX5NOMWZ4TWPHXTE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598499},"content":"“For Antoine, there is suspicion of a fairly serious knee injury. I won’t go into details due to medical confidentiality, but Antoine is suffering. We have cited players to appear before the [Six Nations disciplinary] committee – Tadhg Beirne and Andrew Porter. Calvin Nash has also been summoned before the committee, for Pierre-Louis Barassi because he did not respond favourably to the protocol.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZUGLDPXP25GYNDCP7X6LK2QRAQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598500},"content":"“We feel bad for [Antoine]. In terms of the action, in my opinion it was reprehensible, and there are ways to study and analyse it. We feel for him today. He is suffering and we are suffering with him.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDOIMZZNT5BWLDSANT63OKBPBM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598501},"content":"When Dupont went off, Grégory Alldritt took over as captain. He wasn’t as visibly disgruntled as his coach afterwards but he didn’t put a tooth in it either. Losing Dupont was a lot to take.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5WPOUXJ4YRATXL4XIZPNL5S5CY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598502},"content":"“At half-time, it’s hard to see a friend like that. It’s still complicated to talk about it … We felt anger, which served as fuel for the second half.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"PXQKQ7BGNREQLLNDYB3G2NCHIM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598503},"content":"Do they have cause? It’s incredibly hard to say either way. The incident itself isn’t clearcut and the intent or otherwise is probably in the eye of the beholder. The French were understandably aggrieved to see their star man and spiritual leader go off and to find him in crying in the dressingroom. But inferring deliberate foul play from Beirne and Porter? That seems a stretch.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UDZSQMS6LNCYPINTO64ZJECBGE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598504},"content":"“I think it’s just a rugby incident where Tadhg cleans out someone in front of Antoine Dupont and he gets hit on the back of that,” said Ireland head coach Simon Easterby. “You know, this happens unfortunately. We have definitely moved away and players have a real awareness now of cleaning out on the lower limb of a player, which can create the type of injury that might have happened today. But that wasn’t the case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QYKXXWQRHFEQRN4PEGV756BY4M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598505},"content":"“He was securing his own ball and not making contact on Dupont and unfortunately that happens. The guy that Tadhg hit was hit on to Dupont and it’s just one of those things unfortunately. It happens in a game. I’ll probably have to look back on it again but we feel like the right decision was made there.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EC2XD2P4PZDRBO43D2AGXEUO7E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598506},"content":"In the end, they didn’t need either Dupont or Barassi to see it out. France saw Ireland’s good start to the second half and raised it a level. Their 7/1 split was a risk and it looked dicey at times, particularly with the injuries. But the bench did its job, as Alldritt acknowledged.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7P56WLO7FEVBEP6TQZQM5L54U","additional_properties":{"_id":1741463598507},"content":"“We knew it was going to be a tough second half but we had a lot of confidence in the bench. They had a big, big entry against Italy and they did another good job today. The contract was to play for 50 minutes and to leave everything on the pitch and then they would come on and finish the job. And I think it worked quite well today.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Malachy Clerkin"}},"name":"Malachy Clerkin"}]},"description":{"basic":"France have cited Tadhg Beirne and Andrew Porter for the incident that injured the French captain"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T18:30:38.823Z","headlines":{"basic":"Fabien Galthié: ‘We feel bad for Dupont. In terms of the action, in my opinion it was reprehensible’ ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"4ETYB3SEQOTRLL4UBSD6LOUP4Q","auth":{"1":"0ccfbf99e04493ffce1175d2d8cf540cc5f06d9ef5c92795445879ac4f0b190f"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/4ETYB3SEQOTRLL4UBSD6LOUP4Q.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/fabien-galthie-we-feel-bad-for-dupont-in-terms-of-the-action-in-my-opinion-it-was-reprehensible/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"KR3NZ7M5FVANPCXDV2PTVS4O4U","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":132,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/10780232-d7fb-42e7-9243-c862775d1698/versions/1741453908/media/2ac49812a8d9fdeb6ce1e84406f1eef0_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/james-lowe-sorely-missed-as-ireland-forced-to-go-without-his-extensive-bag-of-tricks/","content_elements":[{"_id":"U6CLF5EUORAJVH6LD24NVVMZCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211068},"content":"Half an hour before the beginning of the match <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/james-lowe/\" target=\"_self\">James Lowe</a> was warming up with a group of Irish players simulating a ruck move. Lowe took no obvious hard contact but fell to the ground on his back. He immediately began to appear in some discomfort and raised his hands to cover his face.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VNZXFWSPMVFIHC3VRRHFRBPOR4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211069},"content":"A trainer came over and a disconsolate looking Lowe was escorted slowly away from the pitch and down the tunnel.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNPZZM63ZNFDFAFJ7RPLT3NZKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211071},"content":"Conformation from the Irish management arrived soon after that Lowe had suffered a back spasm and would not be able to start against France. He was replaced by Calvin Nash, who started in the number 11 jersey.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDCJRUHJ65H6ROKRUDSVWX7G6M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211070},"content":"French power game blows Ireland off the park as Grand Slam hopes obliterated","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"CTSVCHZWI5CPNP3AMQZDYD56P4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211072},"content":"Losing Lowe was an enormous blow for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\" target=\"_self\">Ireland</a> in their toughest match of this <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\" target=\"_self\">Six Nations</a>. He may wear the 11 shirt, but he has always been much more than a winger to the team.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M66LQGPF7REUREBLCSHWQDHTKU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211073},"content":"His left boot, his natural strength on the ball, his abrasive defensive work, his ability to find the try line and, as fans saw against Wales, his beautiful timing when he rose to meet a kicked ball that was going out and tapped it back to Jamie Osborne for a try.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7PXW3EDYWWM3CGQKSTYIGJOVUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211074},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PWQNEV5Z2JHDBJTUN6KUQVDY5Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211075},"content":"Lowe is also a bundle of energy for the team and his fearless hunger to become involved in matches means that he is an ever-ready presence whether cleaning out at rucks or making last ditch tackles in defence. He also scored a try against Scotland pointing to his dangerous presence for all his 39 caps.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GVT4BOLVH5DMJG2GCGTZIUMJZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211076},"content":"Although Nash, who had nine caps before the match, came in at short notice, Ireland were not replacing like with like. The talented Munster winger plays a more conventional way out wide and although he was effective in other ways, Ireland missed Lowe’s robust knock around game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GQYXEH3WVFB43BHT2G43FZWSEM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211077},"content":"Ireland 27 France 42: How the Irish players rated at the Aviva Stadium","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HQSJD6TANZCOPOEZY4WTKUEWNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211078},"content":"The yellow card aside, Nash was busy and involved, but missing such a key player who scores tries hurt, especially in the dominant first quarter when Ireland might have moved the scoreboard but could not.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WSPUTQRQ5FCJNK2LJ7ZKWZVF3U","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211079},"content":"It has been said during this campaign, when things have not panned out as expected, that Ireland are a good team in the face of adversity and manage to get the job done. They faced adversity against a very strong French side and came up short.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUUU5XNSGBCM3CKCO7WE5735ZE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741454211080},"content":"Lowe’s prematch injury may not have changed the outcome, but his regular gutsy contribution was missed by Ireland.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Johnny Watterson"}},"name":"Johnny Watterson"}]},"description":{"basic":"Calvin Nash called into action shortly before kick-off after Lowe went down injured during the warm-up"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T17:06:44.344Z","headlines":{"basic":"James Lowe sorely missed as Ireland forced to go without his extensive bag of tricks","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6XZQ4EIGU4TCVMU7L6RHAG3EEI","auth":{"1":"485be29c2f226b0b84ebf9577684811e4b49a1827ee2a97fa69709bd4073791d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6XZQ4EIGU4TCVMU7L6RHAG3EEI.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/james-lowe-sorely-missed-as-ireland-forced-to-go-without-his-extensive-bag-of-tricks/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"4HCWO2RBPNBLPHJGI6RU4YCJD4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":603,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/6726cc52-9c66-4c3d-9e27-26e3166e2dbc/versions/1741453495/media/d1d6eef314bf40d4be80dfd55d39b789_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/french-power-game-blows-ireland-off-the-park-as-grand-slam-hopes-obliterated/","content_elements":[{"_id":"MLKG2ZK3FZDQXGJGENRCCKELPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six Nations: Ireland 27 France 42","type":"header"},{"_id":"M32K7THYCZGFHF6MCYPBR7GNZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france\">France</a> put <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland\">Ireland</a> to the sword and utterly obliterated hopes of a Grand Slam, also ending any realistic designs on a historic three-peat next weekend. What’s more, France did so despite losing their talisman early in the piece, so shredding any notion that they might be overly dependent on <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/antoine-dupont\">Antoine Dupont</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NMKDOQZJFCCJCTYLX6CXY3WTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite one of their battery of backrowers also playing much of the second half in midfield, France’s 7-1 split reaped a rich dividend as their amalgam of power and pace shredded Ireland in the third quarter. Ireland just do not have finishers like the jet-heeled Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Damian Penaud.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SYPOW5FPNVHRDIHC63LFFQKRIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Their defence also smashed Ireland in the collisions, and the injection of the Bomb Squad did not dilute this in any way. Their backrow were immense, particularly Paul Boudehent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSOGPZ4EGNGGFD5W5YGH7UX6XQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"It might have been a different game if Ireland had scored early but the ferocious tempo set by Ireland as they dominated possession and territory in the opening quarter crucially went unrewarded. Unlike the game two years ago, this high tempo did not reap some dues later on, even though the home side led 13-8 early in the second half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4M5UCLQWYFFDXCVJHV7F4YFRWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"But a stunning 24-point salvo in 12 minutes by France turned the game on its head and with it the crowd’s soundtrack, as Les Bleus ultimately scored 34 unanswered points before a couple of late consolation scores brought a modicum of respectability to the scoreline.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LGD624FEXVEFHAMA2OCLZW73UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, as much as this was monumental day for France, it was a very sobering one for a comparatively blunt Ireland, who looked comparatively short of pace and power.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AFBVBERKCQBGBUHTTYC56NJB5M","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"NS457QLUC5ELLDLJ5HRVAVLLPQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The build-up was given an additional, unwanted twist when James Lowe pulled up after what seemed an innocuous drill in the warm-up and was withdrawn, to be replaced by Calvin Nash. This felt like a significant blow, and was relayed to the paying customers just after the game started.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7U3EGCCNEZF4DJ27LLNAA6LYQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"As chants of ‘Allez Les Bleus’ filled the brief lulls from the prematch music, over 40 minutes later the 8-6 scoreline in France’s favour didn’t come close to reflecting the unrelenting intensity or eventfulness of the exchanges.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7W6JRRQM6NGKVPF3EV2O3PPJE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland dominated the first quarter, but four visits to the French 22, including a couple of penalties to the corner and multiphase attacks off ensuing launch plays met a ferocious blue wall. Dan Sheehan was tackled just short of the line by Francois Cros and then again after his tap penalty, before Caelan Doris was held up over the line superbly by a combination of Peato Mauvaka and Grégory Alldritt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FYB4Z7HXBNGQ3MPYXKBECMPR2M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sam Prendergast hit the upright with a 40-metre penalty and this seemed to be briefly compounded for Ireland when France repelled a 13-phase attack with increasing vigour and Penaud had Dupont in support from an ensuing turnover. But replays showed that Dupont had knocked the ball forward in deflecting Hugo Keenan’s pass to Jamie Osborne.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NBESPS6YYNB7LAOQYIFE2RVIL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Initially, Ireland put together some strong defensive sets featuring a couple of superb turnovers by Doris, but France struck with their first launch play in the French 22. It emanated from Dupont and Romain Ntamack countering from Osborne’s long kick by recognising space on the edge before Ramos linked with the fleet-footed Bielle-Biarrey to kick ahead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7KLXLEMAJDJXIO4MBVLGYINHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He was slightly tugged by Prendergast, but far more blatant and ill-advised was Joe McCarthy tugging Ramos by the back of his collar. The yellow card was inevitable and it almost felt like the try was too as the French catch-and-drive rumbled forward before Dupont peeled blind to put Bielle-Biarrey over in the corner.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEE4ZJCAPGP2PRTQKZCHG64C2E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"C2UGJ4BALJBXDE7VDKZBXHWAGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"As La Marseillaise echoed around the stadium, the only consolation for Ireland was that Ramos missed the touchline conversion. French confidence rose, evidenced by Bielle-Biarrey’s outrageous and audacious kick-pass across his own goal line to Penaud. Ireland held out the remainder of McCarthy’s sinbinning, during which Dupont was helped off to be replaced by Maxime Lucu.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YYMBVK6K3NHGLOM4XPIEL43WRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"This was the consequence of Sheehan turning a loose lineout into go-forward ball with a big carry, Dupont tackling him and then going down when Tadhg Beirne made a clearout. It looked legal, and didn’t seem malicious at all, although there might have been a slight side entry, and both Dupont and Alldritt made their complaints known to referee Angus Gardner. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RKX23BCE4ZAZHARXJ6MWPY23AA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Prendergast did open Ireland’s account with a penalty but this was immediately cancelled out by a very soft penalty, supposedly against Andrew Porter, seemingly given by Matthew Carley for blocking Penaud’s chase of the ensuing restart, for Ramos to make it 8-6.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OT2ZZFVIMZA4DJI3G7563XCCDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Penaud needlessly took a quick throw which Ramos kicked away and then dallied near his own line and Prendergast ended the first half with a monstrous penalty from just inside halfway with the last kick of the half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"47YHWLIQLFEEHFCWCR23XZPUVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the resumption, Ireland struck. Prendergast tapped a penalty against Jean-Baptiste Gros for a lazy run and Sheehan hit Beirne for the pack to set up a quick maul which inched forward before the hooker arrowed over by the corner flag through Lucu.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BOHFM5LUIBBERJCFYYYA5LUZXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Championship minutes and all that. When Prendergast landed the touchline conversion for a 13-8 lead Ireland seemed well set but the French response was ominously swift and imposing, their close-in power game culminating in Gros offloading inventively in traffic for Lucu, who did the same for Boudehent to score. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ST4FRNC5AZCQDPIAGU5X6FRU5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gardner curiously did not interpret Thibaud Flament’s clear-out beyond the ball on O’Mahony to be illegal while Nash was also binned for a head-on-head hit on Pierre-Louis Barassi. And how France, to the delight of their more vociferous contingent of about 10,000 colourfully clad supporters, made hay.","type":"text"},{"_id":"447UMECXGJW2TPSSBSV2JRIHUA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"IXNQORTIX5AXVNIPFPAF4AJFIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The introduction of five of their Bomb Squad then had an immediate impact as France counter-rucked for turnover ball and Lucu fed Penaud, in his element in such circumstances. He weaved untouched deep into Ireland’s defence before floating a long pass to Bielle-Biarrey. With most mortals, there’d have been nothing on, but the jet-heeled winger set off, grubbered infield into the in-goal area and sped past covering defenders to win the touchdown just before the end-goal line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AMBI25MKBNGLLKGWRK7AMXDWCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"That felt like pretty much game over and after a Ramos penalty that was certainly the case when another power play culminated in Oscar Jegou, the openside ostensibly playing in midfield, plunging over. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NWTOTXX5ANBQDK6MILNOMJEAJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ramos converted and added a penalty before Ireland’s noses were rubbed in the grass when they created extra numbers but Prendergast’s short pass intended for Robbie Henshaw for a walk-in was picked off by Ramos and he gave Penaud a run-in from halfway to equal Serge Blanco’s all-time French record of 38 tries. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DQKEQIQCFFBSBASOCUWOOCIDWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"That 14-point turnaround gave the scoreline a distorted look, but Ireland at least kept their heads up and kept going.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ERBPKLRPCFG5JLXFVFIW3R66OU","additional_properties":{},"content":"First Cian Healy rolled back the years to take a pass from the other centurion bidding farewell and plough through two defenders. Then Prendergast and Jack Crowley combined for Jack Conan to touchdown in the game’s final play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DQ6OZB2HXBB5NHJHXKNJV5UDOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"But it was the French fans who continued to sing loudest, as they had done all day, and also, despite presentations to the three centurions, to linger longer. This was their day. And how.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VE25LWGWTBGQPPUKMMLFJYCAQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>SCORING SEQUENCE – 21 mins: </b>Bielle-Biarrey<b> </b>try, 0-5; <b>35:</b> Prendergast pen, 3-5; <b>36:</b> Ramos pen, 3-8; <b>40+3:</b> Prendergast pen, 6-8 (<b>half-time 6-8</b>); <b>43:</b> Sheehan try, Prendergast con, 13-8; <b>47:</b> Boudehent try, Ramons con, 13-15; <b>49:</b> Bielle-Biarrey<b> </b>try, Ramos con, 13-22; <b>56:</b> Ramos pen, 13-25; <b>59:</b> Jegou try, Ramos con, 13-32; <b>68: </b>Ramos pen, 13-35; <b>74: </b>Penaud, Ramos con, 13-42; <b>77:</b> Healy try, Prendergast con, 20-42; <b>80:</b> Conan try, Prendergast con, 27-42. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XREIOM56W5FQHDJ7ZYLNRUDNL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND: </b>Hugo Keenan (Leinster); Jamie Osborne (Leinster), Robbie Henshaw (Leinster), Bundee Aki (Connacht), Calvin Nash (Munster); Sam Prendergast (Leinster), Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster); Andrew Porter (Leinster), Dan Sheehan (Leinster), Finlay Bealham (Connacht); Joe McCarthy (Leinster), Tadhg Beirne (Munster); Peter O’Mahony (Munster), Josh van der Flier (Leinster), Caelan Doris (Leinster, capt).","type":"text"},{"_id":"5T63Y3EF3BH55DUX5X352POYYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> Jack Conan (Leinster) for O’Mahony, Ryan Baird (Leinster) for Van der Flier (both 48 mins); Jack Crowley (Munster) for Aki (55); James Ryan (Leinster) for McCarthy (57); Thomas Clarkson (Leinster) for Bealham (59); Van der Flier for Doris (65-75); Cian Healy (Leinster) for Porter, Rob Herring (Ulster) for Sheehan, Conor Murray (Munster) for Gibson-Park (all 68). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DA545CSVFBCKBCYVEHBNIGCTRA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Yellow cards: </b>McCarthy (20 mins), Nash (47).","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVS52QMNHFAG7KOYUWXD5QM4QY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>FRANCE: </b>Thomas<b> </b>Ramos (Toulouse); Damien Penaud (Bordeaux-Bègles), Pierre-Louis Barassi (Toulouse), Yoram Moefana (Bordeaux-Bègles), Louis Bielle-Biarrey (Bordeaux-Bègles); Romain Ntamack (Toulouse), Antoine Dupont (Toulouse, capt); Jean-Baptiste Gros (Toulon), Peato Mauvaka (Toulouse), Uini Atonio (La Rochelle); Thibaud Flament (Toulouse), Mickaël Guillard; François Cros (Toulouse), Paul Boudehent (La Rochelle), Grégory Alldritt (La Rochelle).","type":"text"},{"_id":"25T4WUJSM5D45NGJ34BXJLJANI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements: </b>Maxime Lucu (Bordeaux-Bègles) for Dupont (29 mins); Oscar Jegou (La Rochelle) for Barassi (46); Julien Marchand (Toulouse) for Mauvaka, Cyril Baille (Toulouse) for Gros, Emmanuel Meafou (Toulouse) for Guillard, Dorian Aldegheri (Toulouse) for Atonio, Anthony Jelonch (Toulouse) for Alldritt (all 48); Hugo Auradou (Pau) for Flament (75).","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVBSSHIFW5GSZDR23YXMJCZUBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Yellow card:</b> Cros (73).","type":"text"},{"_id":"374NMBJHUZCGBLZ4NQL76SGXTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> Angus Gardner (Australia).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gerry Thornley"}},"name":"Gerry Thornley"}]},"description":{"basic":"A stunning 24-point salvo in 12 minutes by France turned the game on its head"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T16:58:29.639Z","headlines":{"basic":"French power game blows Ireland off the park as Grand Slam hopes obliterated","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"36CW7XETITSHKRKNOFC5C6Y67Y","auth":{"1":"7a9f7477a78e9a226ef077a03527646825e16754b8cbab65afa3840a3f5a6bb8"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/36CW7XETITSHKRKNOFC5C6Y67Y.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/french-power-game-blows-ireland-off-the-park-as-grand-slam-hopes-obliterated/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"3YONCDTEFRAZ3DDPC7BJGZKW7A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":212,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/1168f0fd-d91f-4505-9422-e415e17917fe/versions/1741452397/media/f2e48d9b5972944b658642c3e5dc4010_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-27-france-42-how-the-irish-players-rated-at-the-aviva-stadium/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HCIFDCJ2XNFKZOMQHEFB53K5BA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hugo Keenan","type":"header"},{"_id":"PIJZTKREBZAMTAPP65EVKENUOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Straightened up a nice run early. As always busy coming forward and running lines. Kept the high energy levels until the end of the match. Good in the air. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4NBPKAZLHZAC7L3YRZWNZA4QYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating:</b> 7","type":"text"},{"_id":"B6ZIXLHECVBKJDXDCXNAQECNR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jamie Osborne","type":"header"},{"_id":"D3RDHII7JRCMTNVC5W343WTAIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Good one-on tackle on Barassi. Some nice left-boot clearances and great kick and chase on Penaud at the end of the first half. High energy levels throughout.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KD5YAU2VZFHBK3SNPNGQJCNCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating:</b> 6","type":"text"},{"_id":"HS54W7745JBV3CMV3BEFDEIJUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Robbie Henshaw","type":"header"},{"_id":"2OCWXLIE5RDPLPTFSEEW6BALZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"As ever, in the thick of things. His mobility and abrasive game coming up trumps around the pitch. Again, punching through was difficult against this French team.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DFT65W3APNGX3BKLGMF3BT6LW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating:</b> 6","type":"text"},{"_id":"HTHYV275QNGB7P4TSIHRIKEI5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bundee Aki","type":"header"},{"_id":"233PTK2L4BBGVMEY6UEJWUOHXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Took a boot to the face early in the game but didn’t deviate from his physical brand of play. Excellent French defence made life difficult to find go-forward gaps.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JCN52VJE45AKTAZHMSCJBBIIHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"SPU2OK7KUFEC3A7N7QAQDDR4J4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Calvin Nash ","type":"header"},{"_id":"2ACJYIK7FZEFLB56EO6HVXY3PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Took a great early high ball which brought him into the game and kept himself involved throughout. High tackle for a yellow card gave him 10 minutes in the bin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZS4VGH6WWZG7LD2UCFV7FKK7H4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"YSDWMWQYZVB75JIQSJNDAMXHQA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sam Prendergast","type":"header"},{"_id":"AFO26SQ7PZHUVAA46QHK2LMMM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Followed a missed kick with a bullseye and then one from the halfway line. Did a lot of good things and had poise. Will regret Ramos interception late in the match. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"577EONTH4FGI7GZ64GB3YI5XPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOSHCKQLDFBWRFFIECMCKFD6Y4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jamison Gibson-Park","type":"header"},{"_id":"O5CLLQ4VTBARLPSQMXCTIYHYPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Flicked around as he normally does, forcing the tempo and box kicking. Was blocked once and played a lot of the game with the French in his face.","type":"text"},{"_id":"733ZKUHMP5HS5EPABZ25W7NJDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"PP7LLPB4RJFODJEAIRVC5LL2BU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Andrew Porter","type":"header"},{"_id":"FHNDFWAVTJEA5JBJOKK6FDWK4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"High-energy contribution and took hard carries when Ireland were pressing for a score. The scrum was solid and strong close-range tackling and cleanouts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWB5V6ED45GGVJG4NRNMZOYZSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"3WV67IU4RBFJVIWEWACR7MI3RM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"ACTNE45IH5EOTJE7AGQUO4T4ZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Dan Sheehan","type":"header"},{"_id":"DKMJYE425NDD7MIMS3P2QUXTXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"He took his try well in typical style from the back of a lineout maul. Tackled all day until replaced but would have liked more ball in hand to show off his running game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R2ANYJBPQZGOZGO4WZKJXX5A3I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"VYGE3BKQW5FSBHYS4O4LUB434Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finlay Bealham","type":"header"},{"_id":"7AHTFYTDP5EXVEFQFBYFZ2PFYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Busy first half and offered himself for tough yard work. The scrum was good too. Got his hand on the ball plenty but it was a hard day to make inroads.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y66GB6575RBQJEDH5FNIT4KAHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"HB5KT3WQGZBEDAZUKGH7IHIC5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Joe McCarthy","type":"header"},{"_id":"66QNTU43KVDO5JY72O7HI57OYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"A silly yellow card in the first half that everybody saw. Good lineout option and aggressive around the pitch both with his carries and making one-up tackles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5EH4KZCC4VECHNOK26R7ATMM5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"7GTHMR4F7VFCHDSPN2FLJQ5YZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tadhg Beirne","type":"header"},{"_id":"6FYRGRRXWBGCVPBVK4DJLMJWCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The lineout worked and he was a good Irish option there. Made some big tackles, notably on Thomas Ramos in the first half, and ground away in the engine room.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJR6BNZASZDIVNSLXQKN3SVLWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>7","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEE4ZJCAPGP2PRTQKZCHG64C2E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"EYXB6GHRORHZTFIRSPD6ZCUHUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Peter O’Mahony","type":"header"},{"_id":"3ZAKTX3PRZC2FOFGZV6YUEZ4KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Caught lineout balls, carried when he could and tackled from the beginning of the match. Kept his work rate high until replaced by Baird in the second half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OXCGKN5Z6VH3PD5XO67PKWLMEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"WFWV26SUKRCWRKIYEBUFAZWGJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Josh van der Flier","type":"header"},{"_id":"IEIPGB5WXRBR5GJK3QVAVIMUPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Showed early, taking the ball on when Ireland dominated. Close in tackling and disruption made French life difficult. Would have liked more ball in hand.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WGNXLWYQ3RGSLBDYWOUDDXEG7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"PGZ44SN4M5EM5P3ZKRCKB5JFUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Caelan Doris (capt)","type":"header"},{"_id":"GWHV7GA4OZDX7CMYVANVZS56D4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Was Ireland’s principle ball carrier throughout the match. Made the line too in the first half but could not ground the ball. Led well against a strong French side.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5T2O7IHRZVGJVIYFUGMNLPXJ4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>7","type":"text"},{"_id":"RAAGU5VR5RFSVL2XS6L56YDE7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Replacements","type":"header"},{"_id":"C5FPRUMJVJD47C2S3CHH2LGUXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A few tries went in at the end of the match from Jack Conan and Cian Healy but really the contest was over by then and to get the game back was a tough ask.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UTCUKHAWUFHSRLTT7XOVUG56AU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6W5FS36GZD53KV6W6N7NK5DXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Head coach – Simon Easterby","type":"header"},{"_id":"TSS4ZXX4CZE6FIOLH3AOZYZSW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Had a patch-up job to do before the match with James Lowe limping out. Had the team well prepared for the opening stages but no penetration during their dominant spell.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZOP3LCWM6FDLJH7EX7GAMALBJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Rating: </b>6","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Johnny Watterson"}},"name":"Johnny Watterson"}]},"description":{"basic":"Two yellow cards had Ireland on the back foot for most of the game"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T16:41:21.788Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland 27 France 42: How the Irish players rated at the Aviva Stadium ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7DZ4QG4QCYIWEKZQLWXNHFIDHM","auth":{"1":"a0059e16db81cb51748c013115176d1f149baebc8a81a16cddbc65db1043b66b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7DZ4QG4QCYIWEKZQLWXNHFIDHM.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-27-france-42-how-the-irish-players-rated-at-the-aviva-stadium/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"3XNIHIJUHVFDRCYGB72DWVANZI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":452,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/18bcc12a-3a67-4be7-92bc-76da15a293bc/versions/1741380247/media/b25487350035fa14da7f060d9ba04585_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-at-their-collective-best-can-overcome-french-force-and-flair/","content_elements":[{"_id":"7PMYWENYHRF2PPJHV56UL6WZW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six Nations: Ireland v France, Saturday, Aviva Stadium, 2.15pm – Live on RTÉ and ITV","type":"header"},{"_id":"DORHLUDEWVDEHBQ3YSFEJF74OM","additional_properties":{},"content":"For the fourth year running, this is it, the same two countries going head-to-head in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\">Six Nations</a> title decider in all but name, and thus the match of the championship and perhaps the season as well. That’s all then. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MW4IWTTRRNECVFAQVQD3MBAG34","additional_properties":{},"content":"It may not be a Grand Slam shoot-out but most likely <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby\">Ireland</a> will need to complete a second Slam in three years to ensure a historic three-peat. That’s because <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby\">France</a>’s routs of Wales and Italy has made their points difference vastly superior, so if Les Bleus win this game Ireland would need to pick up two bonus points and deny France a bonus point to remain ahead of their rivals going into the last weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O6SRC7A555BWDP4UFCVDYI2SFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Otherwise, any kind of French win here and they will lead the table entering next weekend’s final round, in which Ireland kick-off first in front of the travelling St Patrick’s weekend Green Army in Rome and France host Scotland in Super Saturday’s finale. England, at home to Italy on Sunday and away to Wales on the final day, are rated 14-1 outsiders of the three title contenders. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SR2C2GYHFGRPK4QJM6UXWVBUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland come into this game off the back of a third successive win in Cardiff, albeit they had to recover from an 18-10 deficit with 17 unanswered points. By contrast, France exorcised a few demons from their wasteful and somewhat self-inflicted defeat in Twickenham by sharpening their blades against an increasingly supine Italy. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YI5PTUFKHRASHANFKOFBYQFKEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Each has been strengthened by the return of some key men, although Ireland are missing the suspended Garry Ringrose, while this game has come too soon for Tadhg Furlong and Rónan Kelleher. Fabien Galthié has reinstated Damien Penaud, one try shy of Serge Blanco’s French record of 38, and Romain Ntamack at outhalf to partner Antoine Dupont.","type":"text"},{"_id":"34ODIGZQVFHSXCWA5XLSUB6A7Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"He has also beefed up his 7-1 bench with the heft of Emmanuel Meafou and Hugo Auradou,which looks to have been designed specifically with their hosts in mind, intent to beat up Ireland. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"B5EL3OYZQZGWDAB4IIPETC4V7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Even so, Ireland’s 6-2 bench looks well equipped to meet fire with fire, and furthermore France’s 7-1 split comes with plenty of risk. For one, injury in their backline automatically will ensure Maxime Lucu is introduced and Dupont has to move to outhalf. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"42T5XSKSMBAXDKQAFDSFK2LCBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"That has to be a result for any opposing team, as no matter how adaptable he is at outhalf, Dupont is the best player in the world at scrumhalf. His duel with Jamison Gibson-Park, equally influential as Ireland’s pivot, will go a long way towards determining the outcome. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YOPI2ANFOJNFKYHWOJY7XVZZVQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"YWAORYNXXRCXZL3ABZZVO3G27I","additional_properties":{},"content":"A host of other familiar rivalries abound, be it Dan Sheehan v Peato Mauvaka, Andrew Porter v Uini Atoni, Caelan Doris v Gregory Alldritt, and each of the back three, not least James Lowe v Penaud. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASS5WKZOCNGADPQRRNEYDWMF5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Galthié has already publicly aired his views on Ireland’s work on opposition rucks at the breakdown and it will be interesting to see how referee Angus Gardner and his officials oversee the scrums, although the Irish frontrow will bring more around the pitch.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BQIH7JK2IBFOROX563QDARJBIQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"France will certainly bring plenty of ball-carrying oomph to work off Dupont’s pull-stringing, although, for starters, the Joe McCarthy and Tadgh Beirne secondrow pairing ought not be overpowered by Thibaud Flament and Mickaël Guillard. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RPDB2L6YCRGA3FWERT44PRJWYQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"For sure, too, Les Bleus bring plenty of pace and finishing among their back three, although then again they are not all brilliant defenders, while outside centre Pierre-Louis Barassi was exposed by both Elliot Daly’s match-winning try in Twickenham and Tommaso Menoncello’s opener in Rome. Ireland are also equally as threatening in the air, both teams capable of bringing plenty of long-range and nuanced kicking in what will be a fascinating tactical battle. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"I54BZI7SUZCRXBCKQFW2GETQ7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"A 2.15pm kick-off is not normally the most raucous slot, but if ever the Aviva will be all a fever then the sheer seismic magnitude of this encounter should ensure an atmosphere befitting the occasion. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3NRDEDLAUZHMLGHIW5DS2E3MRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-easterby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-easterby/\">Simon Easterby</a> cites the opening game against England as encouragement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X4SF2LLE5BH5FM55FCLU5U2MZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It was a cracking atmosphere. It gives the players an extra edge. it gives them another metre. I think it does, it creates something that allows, they feel like they want to go and they’re striving to do something special.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BMJ63KXWXJHTJIDRBLWPBKBF6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m not saying that at times when the game swings a bit, when momentum swings, I think those are the moments where I feel in the England game, actually, that we felt like that atmosphere was still there and I’ve no doubt that will be the case on Saturday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCGDBQ5C4AWAAZOP6AMCKE2SVA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WJGYNCSVUZCFBBKQYE7OUCPOMU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think the Irish public will know the magnitude of what’s at stake and those that are lucky enough to come to the stadium will I’m sure as well, and that will create an atmosphere, but we’ve also got to make sure that they’ve got something to get their teeth into as well.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"2BS3YPOVMZHZZFKK6XXIBDJTGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The weather forecast is for a relatively mild day but even if it doesn’t quite scale the epic heights of the corresponding clash two years ago, and even if it is a taut and tight affair, in modern times these two simply don’t do dull.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q45X67ZHE5FOBL5RK4EL4IPNDI","additional_properties":{},"content":"That French performance in Twickenham never looked like a good outcome for Ireland given France were never going to be that wasteful again. Italy may have felt the brunt of the riposte but France looked primed for a big performance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FWW3U324ORDC7BSAANGBVEAAH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"So, to beat them, Ireland will need to produce something close to their collective best, but as the game has neared so has the feeling hardened that they will. As well as winning two of the last three title deciders, in those three clashes Ireland have outscored France by 12 tries to five.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7KBJPRYVNGHBDYG4YHMAYSZAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"As with the Leinster collisions against La Rochelle and Toulouse in recent times, Ireland’s more precise and nuanced game has enabled them to go toe to toe with the French and compete strongly. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UHPJV4NOQZFHJISBDRJMIQ5ABM","additional_properties":{},"content":"What’s more, home advantage might come into play in a close game. French teams have had their troubles on their travels, while Ireland have won 23 of their last 24 games at the Aviva. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IXNC3TYXHRCUJMHDAIH7E6K2R4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND: </b>Hugo Keenan; Jamie Osborne, Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki, James Lowe; Sam Prendergast, Jamison Gibson-Park; Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Finlay Bealham; Joe McCarthy, Tadhg Beirne; Peter O’Mahony, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris (capt).","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZQJVQG3QNCVFJ6CLIXGM2HOKI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> Rob Herring, Cian Healy, Thomas Clarkson, James Ryan, Jack Conan, Ryan Baird, Conor Murray, Jack Crowley.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NHJY4YB3U5DLHKOTYIAHTXZULE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>FRANCE: </b>Thomas<b> </b>Ramos; Damien Penaud, Pierre-Louis Barassi, Yoram Moefana, Louis Bielle-Biarrey; Romain Ntamack, Antoine Dupont (capt); Jean-Baptiste Gros, Peato Mauvaka, Uini Atonio; Thibaud Flament, Mickaël Guillard; François Cros, Paul Boudehent, Grégory Alldritt.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RT6R25P4QZC67LGBBF2ZESBXNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements: </b>Julien Marchand, Cyril Baille, Dorian Aldegheri, Emmanuel Meafou, Hugo Auradou, Oscar Jegou, Anthony Jelonch, Maxime Lucu.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UGMPLSZZK5A3HPL2XSMHL4XWF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> Angus Gardner (Australia).","type":"text"},{"_id":"MURRFMAWTJEV7KETXSP2ICMBZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Assistant referees: </b>Matthew Carley (England), Christophe Ridley (England).","type":"text"},{"_id":"A55QFM7D2RHEHB67JUN7RQVZPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>TMO: </b>Ian Tempest (England).","type":"text"},{"_id":"B7YBAFQSIVF3DG3BHIHJBEOAII","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Overall head-to-head: </b>Played 103, France 59 wins, Ireland 37 wins, 7 draws.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5CKENWPXGBESHCOLGBCQ4RRRCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>In Ireland: </b>Played 50, Ireland 23 wins, France 22 wins, 5 draws.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R2ECRS64KFGEZJZCAPTPM4KJHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>In France: </b>Played 50, France 35 wins, Ireland 13 wins, 2 draws.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SA6CVWN24BGXXL3MEXUJTXRLJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Neutral venues (all RWC):</b> France 2 wins, Ireland 1 win.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M73HLMMMZVDU7I6B7LEFBFOKLI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting:</b> 5-6 Ireland, 19-1 Draw, 11-10 France. <b>Handicap odds (France +1 pt)</b> Evs Ireland, 16-1 Draw, Evs France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZU6JM6RTWJGIHFDSFZNRXIACGQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Forecast:</b> Ireland. Maybe. Just. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MY4BGVCB6VCRFMTZUV7HUTGWPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gerry Thornley"}},"name":"Gerry Thornley"}]},"description":{"basic":"With so much on the line, proceedings at the Aviva are sure to be far from dull"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:01Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland at their collective best can overcome French force and flair","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"D5Y4TIJZYU7AQAFVFTNTSJS3BY","auth":{"1":"cdbfb3e78b4b6da16632490844d366d1b00672cc9bf6b1b989745b1c73a646a1"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/D5Y4TIJZYU7AQAFVFTNTSJS3BY.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/08/ireland-at-their-collective-best-can-overcome-french-force-and-flair/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"LX4GUUOC6NGR5CEF7FPZSUCHS4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":293,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/6dfdfb2f-60a6-4d6c-b799-5b159d15c7aa/versions/1741386120/media/646eb38dd3dfc868d01b4ab3a51bdb9b_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/three-yellow-cards-do-little-to-halt-france-against-ireland-u20s/","content_elements":[{"_id":"ERBHDA6FV5BWXNPKQXH4E5DYXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Under-20 Six Nations: Ireland 12 France 22","type":"header"},{"_id":"YDJJ2YWDE5DADEOSDCITO33QQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"There was disappointment for the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\">Ireland</a> Under-20s at Virgin Media Park in Cork as they fell to a 10-point defeat against <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\">France</a> in the fourth round of the Under-20 <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\">Six Nations</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ADXCVTSVKVCBRC5GH7MKN43XVA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Thanks in no small part to clinical finishes in either half from Lyam Akrab, France emerged from the Leeside venue with a bonus point triumph. Having previously established an unbeaten run of 15 games across the three previous editions of the tournament, Ireland have now suffered three losses from four games in their 2025 campaign.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GEY43QF3VZGU7BILS6UHOOPBDM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Owing to the concession of three penalties inside the opening eight minutes, Ireland found themselves under intense pressure from the early stages. The persistence of Les Bleus looked set to pay off when Tom Leveque gathered a cross field kick on the right-flank, but superb defensive work by outhalf Tom Wood forced the Bayonne winger into dropping the ball just as he appeared destined to dot down.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PDF7XJVHMJGKPCVPDHW2DCKJLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite failing to finish off this particular move, the visitors continued to attack in waves and finally opened the scoring in the 15th minute. Fresh from registering the quickest try in Top 14 history against Perpignan last weekend, Bordeaux Begles fullback Jon Echegaray rounded off an outstanding team move with a finish to the left of the posts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IT7Y473KLRFJFKNGMWZI3DFKTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"While the resulting conversion from Luka Keletaona drifted past the target, France were in for a second try just shy of the first-quarter mark – Echegaray breaking powerfully into the Irish 22 before passing out wide for Leveque to sprint over in the right-corner.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SMMYVXHGK5C7XH2AV2GGCZOBKI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"EKX2BQC5A5BKTMNEK4UBSM3IYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Echegaray was proving to be the standout performer of the opening period and he subsequently released Noa Traversier for a seemingly routine run over the line on 28 minutes. Yet a premature celebration from the flanker opened the door for Will Wootton to produce a try-saving tackle and Ireland received a much-needed boost when Traversier was yellow carded for a dangerous tackle on Wood moments later.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JVOM64KL6NDU7EXKQ53E55CGWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Remarkably, France would finish the half with just 12 players after Bartholome Sanson and Echegaray both joined Traversier in the sin bin. The temporary dismissal of Echegaray also delivered a penalty try for Ireland, but an earlier five-pointer from French hooker Akrab meant Neil Doak’s men still trailed 15-7 at the interval.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K7KIJPUIABHINA6UPT5A5IRS7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The cards left the hosts with a major numerical advantage on the resumption, albeit France had welcomed Traversier and Sanson back into the fray by the seventh minute of the second half. The half-time scoreline remained intact by the time the visitors were eventually restored to their full compliment, and Cédric Laborde’s charges almost immediately wrapped up a bonus point when Akrab applied the finishing touches to another lineout maul in the 52nd minute.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QCD3XWONJATLFS3SOFVN2OBFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In contrast, Ireland largely struggled to create sustained attacking momentum during the opening hour, but coinciding with the introduction of a plethora of replacements they started to gain more of a stranglehold towards the French posts inside the final-quarter. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MNFLEPXGJ5BKLJVX2AXKSPO6KY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Hooker Henry Walker was one of the replacements and was perilously close to touching down at the back of a lineout maul on 66 minutes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IK2DZEQ4O5ASBDWZ7QCLZ23PJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"While France stood firm during that attacking spell, Ireland finally took their reward when Leinster winger Ciaran Mangan completed an extended move with a stoppage-time try.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EMHJXARSH5GJBHTGY5GMOP3BME","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>SCORING SEQUENCE –</b> <b>15 mins:</b> Echegaray try 0-5; <b>18:</b> Leveque try 0-10; <b>33:</b> Akrab try 0-15; <b>40:</b> penalty try 7-15 <b>Half-time 7-15</b>; <b>52:</b> Akrab try, Keletaona con 7-22; <b>81:</b> Mangan try 12-22.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WRZNR5DGRJGQZPKGZ3XLPWKKRY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>IRELAND:</b> D Green; C Molony, G O’Leary Kareen, E Smyth, C Mangan; T Wood, W Wooton; B Bohan, M Yarr, A Mullan; M Ronan, B Corrigan; M Foy, B Power, E McCarthy (capt).","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZO7KIZX6CBHGRF6MWFEYG2WII4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements: </b>H Walker for Yarr, T McAllister for Mullan (both 51);<b> </b>D Walsh for Power, C Kennelly for Ronan (both 57); P Moore for Bohan, C Logan for Wootton (both 62); S Wisniewski for Wood (67); C Fahy for Smyth (69).","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z7UJNEMMHJFQDJVG4O5IRRMNSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>FRANCE:</b> J Echegaray; T Leveque, S Daunivucu, F Brau Boirie, N Donguy; L Keletaona, B Tilloles; J Christophe, L Akrab, M Megherbi; B Sanson, C Mezou (capt); A Deliance, N Traversier, B Britz.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X766BU3U6FGF5K45F22CL2OXQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements: </b>EJ Jabea Njocke for Megherbi, J Nguimbous for Britz (both 52 mins); S Tolofua for Sanson (57); S Daroque for Tilloles, J Cotarmanac’h for Keletaona (both 60); JY Liufau for Christophe (65); Q Algay for Akrab (66); O Cowie for Donguy (71).","type":"text"},{"_id":"R4S2G5C2OJGLHGXMF5UP6VCU7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Yellow card: </b>Traversier<b> </b>(31 mins),<b> </b>Sanson (37), Echegaray (38).","type":"text"},{"_id":"HEPAI7Z2ONB2TLCALLNG6TREQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee: </b>G Colby (South Africa).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Daire Walsh"}]},"description":{"basic":"Visitors take 22-12 victory at Musgrave Park"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T22:16:54.649Z","headlines":{"basic":"Three yellow cards do little to halt France against Ireland U20s","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"6THLZP37HFGZBOAULTMSKXOD7M","auth":{"1":"d1a663775af32cda49f52e33986294a38b926687203c94dd2d8344bb48247cf0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/6THLZP37HFGZBOAULTMSKXOD7M.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/three-yellow-cards-do-little-to-halt-france-against-ireland-u20s/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"UJFD3C327NGRJAOYZAJ6YCLNHU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":303,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/d9323db0-9468-48e4-be9b-c21ca45e074a/versions/1741373764/media/2f38806b6fe951807e09f76b782c0070_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/maro-itoje-urges-england-to-prioritise-victory-over-big-points-haul-against-italy/","content_elements":[{"_id":"WPM74NB5BVBPLC4CGNJGHNQLQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six Nations: England v Italy, Twickenham, Sunday, 3.0 – Live RTÉ 2","type":"header"},{"_id":"LSUD3V6DHZDA7KOWTU3L474FCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/maro-itoje\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/maro-itoje\">Maro Itoje </a>has called on his <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/england-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/england-rugby\">England</a> side to put <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/italy-rugby\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/italy-rugby\">Italy</a> to the sword on Sunday before worrying about a bumper points haul that could boost their hopes of clinching the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations\">Six Nations</a> title.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KHOEK4QQVBH53NTJIRUCUKREXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"England go in search of a third straight victory of this year’s championship and are hot favourites to do so, having never lost to the Azzurri. Both their recent victories, against France and Scotland, were secured by a solitary point, however, with question marks raised over their clunky attack.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZXSOROEIRBFNBHQFWU3UTL36A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Should France overturn the defending champions Ireland in Dublin, an emphatic victory would improve England’s points difference and with it their chances of lifting the trophy on the final weekend of the championship.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XX7CQNLY6NANHKD4YXSX3OI3C4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Itoje warned his side against chasing a big score from the word go but believes England can turn on the style, insisting that their attack has come in for undue criticism after scoring eight tries in their three matches to date.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNJLAOW725CWPKSOGVCVT3HX4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We want to win, we want to win well,” he said. “But to do that, we have to do all the tough stuff that rugby requires. It’s not going to be an easy game. It’s not going to be a straightforward game. There’s expectation in games like this. In the last two games we didn’t come in as favourites but there was still a level of expectation from ourselves and even external voices as well that England should do well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E55MX5PUKNDRZNOL225RB2JH6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So the level of expectation is there, always there. But I would just say it’s about us, again, going for that performance, having the courage to play the way we want to play and having the bravery to see it through.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KDK76FWLLBC43LLM7MNRA7ROUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“My main thing is, win the game. I have been in situations, I remember the [Saracens] game against Castres at the end of the block before we came here. We definitely should have beaten them, our team was stronger, but our mindset was a little bit off. We were probably trying to create a big scoreline before we actually deserved it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ES6HVZG3EFF5NIBD5UL56ADEFQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So for me, first and foremost, get the boys right, myself right to win the game and win it well. Hopefully we get to that position, then maybe [points difference] will play a factor in my mind. But first and foremost, win the game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XD5G5HBZZVC3POGADPMIOAXAOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“[The attack] is an area that we want to improve in. But I would say I don’t think our attack is as bad as everyone is saying it is. Obviously we only scored one last week. But I don’t think that’s reflective of an attack that can’t even start the engine. Don’t get me wrong. We want to improve. But I don’t think we’re starting from a bad place.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"GIEE26KRWZETDISIND3TGY34QA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Itoje captains England for the fourth time but it will be Jamie George leading the side out to mark his 100th cap on his first start since he was replaced in the role by his Saracens team-mate. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"UHVBVKIQRBCQZMJAT22RO4MVGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Itoje was full of praise for the impact George has had on his career, revealing he is saved as “Jamie Under His Wing” in his contacts book – a nod to the mentoring role he provided in his early days at Saracens.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3RND63CALJBCDMBQPQOKQDDEO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I don’t know if ‘letting him lead the team out’ is the right phrase, he will lead the team out,” added Itoje. “I’m 30 now, I joined Saracens when I was 18. I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have played with him for so long. I’ve definitely become a better player as a result of spending time and playing with Jamie. He’s a great rugby player, he has a great rugby mind, he’s also a great human being as well. He’s great to be around, he’s the man of the people.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHLQTKJI5FGZJHJDS3ISDU6ACE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I haven’t changed what he saved his number as. It’s ‘Jamie Under His Wing’. He put me under his wing, he helped me, gave me words of advice. He also set the standard. Despite his appearance he is an incredibly athletic player, fit, strong. He set a standard to live up to in many ways.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VIIS5IENJRDAVOPSOXTB4233BY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Him being a hooker, me starting as a secondrow and then a lineout-calling secondrow, that is a relationship that we have been building for a number of years now. I think when I got his number he typed it, but it was fitting.” – Guardian","type":"text"},{"_id":"TGKDH6EQX5A65DJGHHHZE3Y3JY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ENGLAND: </b>E<b> </b>Daly; T Freeman, O Lawrence, F Dingwall, O Sleightholme; F Smith, A Mitchell; E Genge, J George, W Stuart; M Itoje (capt), O Chessum; T Curry, B Earl, T Willis. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XLDZHTYFWRECHMEB7KXWV2CX6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements</b><i>:</i> L Cowan-Dickie, F Baxter, J Heyes, T Hill, C Cunningham-South, B Curry, J van Poortvliet, M Smith.","type":"text"},{"_id":"53KMM7G23RACRBODOJB5J3YTR4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ITALY:</b> A Capuozzo; M Ioane, JI Brex, T Menoncello, M Gallagher; P Garbisi, S Varney; D Fischetti, G Nicotera, M Riccioni; N Cannone, F Ruzza; S Negri, M Lamaro (capt), R Vintcent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQDPSMZHWJDFBP2PV2XMWRYWYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Replacements:</b> G Lucchesi, M Spagnolo, S Ferrari, R Favretto, M Zuliani, L Cannone, M Page-Relo, T Allan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GG5KLE7FHZAK3G5MSVOUBIZSHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee:</b> A Brace (Ireland).","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOIVYG47X5CFZF7JCH357UB22E","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Gerard Meagher"}]},"description":{"basic":"England’s slim hope of winning Six Nations depend on Ireland losing to France"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T18:50:56.246Z","headlines":{"basic":"Maro Itoje urges England to prioritise victory over big points haul against Italy","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six Nations","url":"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/six-nations/"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HG4DBYCD4RLHOVZFK7VGGJEV6Y","auth":{"1":"d20056d5fc03189951ffe4300a092dad4f3ea39f644173cbcbac8ba4421d7a20"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HG4DBYCD4RLHOVZFK7VGGJEV6Y.jpg"},"overline_logo":{"_id":"7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4","auth":{"1":"915c879f168be330246aaa51d0f28804eebf249ff9c98ac37b55f71de16f37c0"},"url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7OPMXNXHJNGFNJ3WDQZX4Y6CH4.png"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Rugby"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/maro-itoje-urges-england-to-prioritise-victory-over-big-points-haul-against-italy/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/rugby","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Rugby"}}}},{"_id":"YC5ICJNQ3ZDVXMOWCEFCVKSHKE","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/ireland-france-rugby-six-nations-live-updates-teams-predictions-time-info/","content_elements":[{"_id":"5P576M4HLZDHDASTRSKSSVNEB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Key Reads</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"DBZIYMEAFBCUFE5IIJVEOP57F4","type":"list"},{"_id":"4LT5DB4UEJDDHHS7TBIOD24EDQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741339200000},"id":"timestamp-69882","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"2THW33PM5RCJLGPLPB7BMRIUHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Welcome to our live story building up to Saturday’s highly-anticipated <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/six-nations/\">Six Nations</a> game between <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ireland-rugby/\">Ireland </a>and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france-rugby/\">France</a> in the Aviva Stadium. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDVI4RN7ERAGRJ47K4CNOGPZYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"How big is this game? Well, Gerry Thornley called it “Le Nouveau Crunch” during the week, so that should give you a fair indication. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ULVZE3PDK5HKDGR6GDFGRR5PLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"We will be bringing you all the latest news, injury updates, analysis and predictions from our writers to keep you up to date with all you need to know as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-easterby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/simon-easterby/\">Simon Easterby’s</a> side aim to keep their Grand Slam ambitions on course. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PWCO7GKNHVEYZDW64TD7AMKE4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Key Match Details</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"O44YWJ46XRALHNOEDRFEYZXU3I","type":"list"},{"_id":"LPQUYFNL5NA5ZGBZECDC6NECME","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741342192471},"id":"timestamp-56753","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"5YCJMSZH2NBSDOQ7XYKUKTCLVI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"UWL6IPBBKFBWLBQND2NK35HILQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"So, where do we start? How about with the fact that both Ireland and France are driven by little geniuses wearing 9?","type":"text"},{"_id":"WE74RPJZIBELJB72BPYLHHH7IY","additional_properties":{},"content":"How good are they? Let’s let Gerry Thornley <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\">explain that</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTZ6A6BTUVHGVAC3J4YYYSIBUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In any other era, Gibson-Park might be considered the best scrumhalf in the world game. As things stand, Gibson-Park is the favourite to be next summer’s Lions Test number 9. But, in Dupont, he’s up against the best player in the world.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"5SHSHY3Q7BB53CR3SYBG5C7ARQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mouthwatering clash of Dupont and Gibson-Park is one to savour","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ZAKGVFU65JBPPHU67DUR6SQHSY","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741343086663},"id":"timestamp-10181","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"UBFQLEHYUNHWPBUIQTH2KE6KPM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BR7LQDVFUFCIBO2AALAMFDTBMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Quite apart from battling with France, we are also quite capable of creating our own internal squabbles as well, as anyone following the debate around the Ireland number 10 jersey will know. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LALQD7WNSRGQPJ5STNBFLV2EVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the moment, the debate around Sam Prendergast and Jack Crowley is divided firmly along blue and red lines. You can probably guess why.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NZWCR5QVMNGPBAXOV73SYYEZUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"But hang on – if you mix red and blue together, you get green! (Editor’s note: you don’t, you get purple. And a mess.)","type":"text"},{"_id":"I35N4RA7RZFBZBRB4XL3ZGD42Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Anyway, let Johnny Watterson explain the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/perennial-debate-over-ireland-no-10-jersey-set-to-run-and-run/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/perennial-debate-over-ireland-no-10-jersey-set-to-run-and-run/\">whole affair</a>:","type":"text"},{"_id":"NFO6KFHTDBHEZNYBTYU45SRHNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The drift in thinking towards Leinster being the favoured province with an unfair advantage over the others doesn’t have to be true or false for fault lines to begin to show, and for people to take a partisan position on what player should wear the Irish 10 shirt.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y46XCTSBQ5F77G6QG3HX343RG4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sam Prendergast and Jack Crowley are at the centre of a rugby culture war","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"7HMLYAKIQBGPRGIKVRN2ZUZZ6U","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741343807877},"id":"timestamp-96825","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CNUXBFQ455FZDSFXLUW55VRWZM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"25ZQFCMCKBHH7BQFHW5E724A4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Finlay Bealham has been pondering his growing role in the Ireland team. When he lines up against France at the Aviva it will be his 50th outing in Ireland green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SLHRGOV4HRGPLLBKS65NQWCRMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Even he seems slightly surprised by this <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/its-class-being-part-of-driving-the-bus-finlay-bealham-on-growing-with-ireland-and-facing-france/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/its-class-being-part-of-driving-the-bus-finlay-bealham-on-growing-with-ireland-and-facing-france/\">turn of events</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MYVWOTRE4NCGNDT3Y6JXCAI37M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There was probably a time where I was thinking, ‘Jeez, I may only get 10 caps’. You get to 10 and then you’re like, ‘I’ll just try get to 20’, and then fast forward, on the verge of getting 50. Like I said it’s really special to see the calibre of players that have gone and got 50 themselves. To have myself getting 50 is something that I’m truly honoured to do and something I value very much.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"EMOPZMYOPJH2NLBMNJAF7MCL3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"‘It’s class being part of driving the bus’: Finlay Bealham on growing with Ireland and facing France","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"W52EQNHZAFADJPZKTSYMNRIKSU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741345589271},"id":"timestamp-23166","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"ZSIZGUD7DRDVZMCHU4UYOQPCZQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BE7NL4NQCZHS5CIKUC6C6FK5EE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Who’s the tall teenager with the Beatles haircut and the tracer-like pass?” That is the question that John O’Sullivan poses at the beginning of his feature looking back at the rugby life and times of Cian Healy, Peter O’Mahony and Conor Murray.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F3TQ34MCQRBD7L573ZA2XGAJIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ireland will be waving goodbye to a lot of experience at the end of this Six Nations campaign when the trio retire, and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/green-giants-healy-omahony-and-murray-set-for-final-home-bow/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/green-giants-healy-omahony-and-murray-set-for-final-home-bow/\">John spoke to</a> some of the people who know them best to get an insight into what makes them tick. And what they are like behind the scenes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3H6KUE2XK5CXFIWLIBJSLJKJ7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve so many memories of the three boys, some of them messy, like when they’d kick the lovely, clean, folded laundry up and down the corridor in Carton House. It used to come back in neat parcels, they, amongst other culprits, would collect their gear, and then kick the rest of it down the corridor.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"AONVIIAJONCZRPATPAE6CWNZ7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Green giants Healy, O'Mahony and Murray set for final home bow","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"DFS72UFFD5CHPMDAK4ETADDL6E","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741346868943},"id":"timestamp-2735","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"MDD5Q6XQXQL7ER224RPUHQIPZQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"SPDU5QQBWNF6PBUC6NC37ALSXA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There are of course two other games on this weekend, as much was we might be obsessing over Ireland v France. The weekend’s fixtures are ...","type":"text"},{"_id":"QQBVNHGQRRBLDAOA73VQALGIHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Saturday, March 8th</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"SNGEUHGHPJGWTBCJT2EM53ANRI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Ireland v France</b>, at the Aviva Stadium, 2.15pm, and you can follow the action on RTÉ and The Irish Times blog.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MG7MVCCKHJDMVB32GPWDOAN2ME","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Scotland v Wales</b>, in Murrayfield, 4.45pm (live on Virgin Media, BBC).","type":"text"},{"_id":"EGEUNJFY7VFT5FEHMDL3WID4PM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Sunday, March 9th</b></mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCUOYA5PRZDB5BB3BKQU6S2SXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>England v Italy,</b> Twickenham, 3pm (live on RTÉ, ITV).","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWBVLIO7PBDG3D5KEOMPQEJ6D4","additional_properties":{},"content":"You might have spotted the kicking difficulties suffered by Scotland outhalf Finn Russell the last day out in Twickenham. Interestingly Scotland coach Gregor Townsend has said that Russell will continue with the kicking duties in Saturday’s game against Wales.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7YKOXC6GOBEFHIUEONQENM25S4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Russell missed kicks at Twickenham that would have given his side victory over England two weeks ago. Scotland’s co-captain was off target with all three conversion attempts against England and his last miss in the final minute allowed the hosts to squeeze home 16-15.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BB4HLHVIZFCBTHZB4SDALM3DIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think they were tough conversions. One of them he would have thought wasn’t as tough but his last one was very tough. With about 20 seconds to go, he got asked to move it further to the touchline,” Townsend said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BGHXLYK6YVHLLELSXNQL37LV7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scotland had raised the intervention of referee Pierre Brousset in a review with World Rugby, feeling Russell was asked to kick from two metres wider than where Duhan van der Merwe grounded the try.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UNNGOFNWLNA6VHBYCOVXPN2DKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The scoreline won’t change,” added Townsend. “It doesn’t really make it even less or more frustrating.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHATMA3UP5CMBATZC3HE6JEJLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Russell has spent much of this week practising his kicking ahead of Saturday’s game at Murrayfield, added the coach.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43TFILDLNFBGXI7KYWRTL3ZFWA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Finn is an excellent kicker. Last year he was the best kicker in the championship and I’m sure by the end of the Six Nations his stats will be back up there with what he normally produces and has delivered for Scotland over the years,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ONBKBJRFCNGGLGRUMCTTSZQMR4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741348636373},"id":"timestamp-40447","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"V3LENYTIVBHFZLASGENTSUPV2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ah, the good old days. When rugby shirts fluttered in the breeze.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DWDITG2WNRAH3NRQTMEBCD4SQM","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"GW3LR5XGVJBPZPXT5U2QKOWTUA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741348836438},"id":"timestamp-56269","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"BDI3HT63RFEZJCVKAEY7PFFLAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Although, we have registered some pretty impressive scores against France ourselves. More recent too...","type":"text"},{"_id":"PM6QQF27Y5D2PLYXVB3BFWKVFU","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"Y4XXSFZCNZFZBHWA7YJQ7BGHEY","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741350803835},"id":"timestamp-92474","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"YCG6YVTJ7JB4XFYUZR46SSOLFY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"2J6XCMHXOZEXDJWS7LL2C6I4PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"France and Ireland has developed into a real rivalry in recent years, with the excitement matching the quality on show. Gerry Thornley though is peeved that this game is being staged off-Broadway, as the first game of the 6N weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZO4FOVRHLJF6PFZV5KFVYEDSW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“By rights, this fixture should be the night-time finale to Super Saturday or at least in the early evening slot next Saturday,” <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/04/le-nouveau-crunch-ireland-v-france-is-a-rivalry-for-the-ages/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/04/le-nouveau-crunch-ireland-v-france-is-a-rivalry-for-the-ages/\">he opines</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3L5PM4GKGZGPRBFMO5YC3AMQB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"And look, we are not arguing with him, not this weekend anyway. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LEQRZVIV5ZE2ZCQVFMKW32KGZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s hard to imagine there’s ever been a European rivalry quite like this one, and it assuredly can’t last much longer. So, we should enjoy it while we have it. Welcome to ‘Le Nouveau Crunch’”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPUP6GLEIZAB5EDJKJFGM26OJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"France and Ireland is a rivalry for the ages","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"HYRSOKJSD5GLJNFCCICRTW3W4M","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741352520000},"id":"timestamp-92318","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"GEKSN3OX6CKRCSRLDNOILY52L4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"CRZJECSXNBEHTESJ6WYRW3K4OQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rugby columnist Matt Williams is very excited about the game at the Aviva this weekend. He sees it as an “experiment in Darwinian evolution” − which makes him think about the risks you take while driving onto a roundabout in France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"54J4QIPSR5HX7E5BKEOP2DYV5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Take those same survival laws and put them into your match plan to prepare for the French at the Aviva,” he says. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/matt-williams-france-have-the-power-and-unpredictability-to-put-ireland-in-a-spin/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/matt-williams-france-have-the-power-and-unpredictability-to-put-ireland-in-a-spin/\">Suffice to say that he thinks Ireland have their work cut out for them</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7MWD5SY7NBJFC73ZJODIOCP5M","additional_properties":{},"content":"He dives in to crunch some numbers and comes up with a worrying conclusion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PM4YF3N57VAKHLRD4NMSWSBHLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The reality is that the foundation for stopping Ireland’s game plan rests in disrupting their possession from set play and giving away a minimum number of penalties. To create chaos in the Irish defence, opposition attacks must produce offloads. New Zealand played this game last November. The stats suggest France are highly capable of repeating New Zealand’s success.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"SRRDQDINPRBXXLIXZHHZ3TBHLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Matt Williams: France have power and unpredictability to put Ireland in a spin","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"EIHWOAFVABABPCWJ3VW6TBZLXY","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741355883427},"id":"timestamp-86886","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3S5525PBIJCS3BUBX3D4Y5BNFA","additional_properties":{},"content":"For the third time in as many years, it looks that the winner of Ireland’s clash with France will go on to win the Six Nations. Who, then, are the favourites for Saturday’s clash in Dublin and why?","type":"text"},{"_id":"YW3PMXQC6NEDDB7UHOQ43QABCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Irish Times rugby correspondent Gerry Thornley joins Nathan Johns to preview the clash on <b>The Counter Ruck podcast</b>. What does Ireland’s selection of Jamie Osborne as Mack Hansen’s injury replacement tell us of the impending game plan? Will Ireland continue to be a kick-heavy team? What to make of France’s attack scoring a plethora of tries so far in this competition?","type":"text"},{"_id":"O2AMFIHCTBFUPM4K4QNEO2UUGQ","embed":{"config":{},"id":"acast_podcast-87947","url":"/"},"subtype":"acast_podcast","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"4O5WIZSZZJF23BD2MRKZGLHRSM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Counter-Ruck podcast: Why Ireland v France is the best rivalry in the Six Nations","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"RBIVC6XNVZBHVHZARUUTGH3BCA","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741357680000},"id":"timestamp-36094","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"TUIWYUA22JG3TPYJLOAAMZHYSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Now, let’s take a quick look behind enemy lines.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7K5BW7NNA5CQNIIJA6ANFWGKOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"France head coach Fabien Galthié had many a kind word to say about Ireland after announcing his team on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A3UVDAGRJBBUBDSXHFZC3LUI4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This match has special stakes, we know that and that’s what we want. What’s more, it’s a match against the best European nation in the last three or four years. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"TQYDASOTG5GQ7KC4WT5V2BIJ6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They’re a very high-level team, one of the two best nations in the world, if not the best, and they’re playing at home. It’s true that the challenge is immense. And taking on a huge challenge is what we’re looking for.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"7Y6QBJKPYRDPPH3UDXORCF4LEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Oh Fabien, you flatter us.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHSSPH6Y62V5K6DQ5I3ARXIADY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"MUJE4ZGS2BCX5KKN22AP5FGWCI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On his own team, Galthié spoke briefly on the return of Romain Ntamack at outhalf – the Toulouse kicker having served a suspension following a red card in France’s opening round fixture against Wales – and that 7-1 bench split.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NS7GJESV7BGEJMHA3FWCGCLJZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“(Ntamack) has been training with us throughout the tournament. He’s part of the team dynamic,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGSUQ2QHAVGX5CHQVWAF36EJXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The choice of a 7-1 bench is linked to the profiles of the most competitive players we currently have in the French team. Looking at the performances we’ve had for a while now, that’s what we think is the best way to perform.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"W2Z5IPEFRZGYHD3U5WKI254K3Y","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741359240000},"id":"timestamp-86814","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"XLMEG5D7Z5C3VNUIS2E3YHZCMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"To cast a literary eye on proceedings, Saturday will have many plots.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3V3VRK6UJ5GQTFGNHVL7ZSD2BM","additional_properties":{},"content":"A likely championship decider; Grand Slam hopes still alive for Ireland; an Aviva farewell for O’Mahony, Murray and Healy; 50th caps for Caelan Doris, Finlay Bealham and Jack Conan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VL3TUOP3SNBLFLFEEP55RBJ2YI","additional_properties":{},"content":"But that’s not all. Simon Easterby also wants us to keep an eye on the subplots of the game. Pay attention, this will be on the exam.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2HC7BVZJZGYJH5PMYFOYPB534","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If you’ve got two of the best nines playing against each other (Jamison Gibson-Park and Antoine Dupont), you might have two of the best eights at the moment playing against each other, so I think that creates another little subplot,” said Easterby.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IXYHJJMVJVFNDNKGYYTXGYMWZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Alldritt has been a marquee, standout player for them for a number of years. He just does everything really well and he has the ability to ride tackles and create turnovers himself.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BI7ZANF2CZC4PEVT4TGZZ3D7BY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’ve got one of, if not the best number eights in the world ourselves at the moment and there’s very little between those two players.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AQEUMEFRHRFOLJN6TMMM77IM5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“(It’s) a little battle in the game that will go a long way to see who gets on the front foot, who gets momentum and potentially goes on to win the game, those little battles between players like Alldritt and Caelan.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DHKCDTEB4PGF7QVVJ4XBSSKGLQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"UBT2HRKZERCJLPD2LED7XCRTAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Is that all? Nope.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WAIUTCAE35BT7EVYNUWHNA7HNA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Easterby added: “(France outhalf Romain) Ntamack, physically, he’s probably a lot bigger than people consider when you see him on the TV. He’s actually got a big stature and he has the ability to play the game with his Toulouse team-mate (Dupont) and that sometimes gives them an advantage as a team.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YWN64EKPYVFRLDSJA23MDMGVFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He’s kind of got an all-court game in terms of his kicking, his ability at the line, his ability in his passing game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HR7YIQAOCNDBFLDJOUKD4N3ZSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But we’ve got a couple of pretty special ones there ourselves, in Sam and Jack Crowley.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F6AWKBG6ABCKDOWJHPXPUARDHU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So again, probably another subplot and little battle that will go a long way towards the success of either team – how the number 10s that start the game can manage it and how they control the game in the areas of the pitch we play and also the way we play.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"U64ONC6DXJFJFIQFRPKZNSUX3E","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741361100000},"id":"timestamp-98475","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HNHRZN5AHRBKLLOE37TMF75WQU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Italy are now joining the party, head coach Gonzalo Quesada announcing his team for Sunday’s game against England at Twickenham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PUKJM3GB75ALRPWDS4VIKMR2WA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Six changes for the Italians from their thumping at the hands of France last time out, among them winger Monty Ioane who returns from injury.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPW2Z2L5VJDV5N56B7RNVMF3UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Steve Borthwick likes to get out of the starting gates early – he named his team on Wednesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LSLMRTVNBJBOZMU6OPQDRWZEWI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The England head coach made three changes to the side that took a narrow win over Scotland, Marcus Smith dropping to the bench to make room for Elliot Daly at fullback, Fin Smith staying put at outhalf. And former captain Jamie George returns to the inner circle to earn his 100th cap.","type":"text"},{"_id":"T6DREH3C2NH6JBERUJC2A4IYB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ENGLAND:</b> Elliot Daly; Tommy Freeman, Ollie Lawrence, Fraser Dingwall, Ollie Sleightholme; Fin Smith, Alex Mitchell; Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Will Stuart; Maro Itoje (capt), Ollie Chessum; Tom Curry, Ben Earl, Tom Willis.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ORPYK3YQV5FJLK4Y6DSPIDYPYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Replacements: Luke Cowan-Dickie, Fin Baxter, Joe Heyes, Ted Hill, Chandler Cunningham-South, Ben Curry, Jack van Poortvliet, Marcus Smith.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DQK7KXZN3FFO7OACGX3YWTUXVM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ITALY: </b>Ange Capuozzo; Monty Ioane, Juan Ignacio Brex, Tommaso Menoncello, Matt Gallagher; Paolo Garbisi, Stephen Varney; Danilo Fischetti, Giacomo Nicotera, Marco Riccioni; Niccolo Cannone, Federico Ruzza; Sebastian Negri, Michele Lamaro (capt), Ross Vintcent.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NE23WRFEKJECVFTH7MMUPLD5W4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Replacements: Gianmarco Lucchesi, Mirco Spagnolo, Simone Ferrari, Riccardo Favretto, Manuel Zuliani, Lorenzo Cannone, Martin Page-Relo, Tommaso Allan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUFD37734VAK3FAO7WON53C6W4","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741362492629},"id":"timestamp-37287","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"3VJX3MNVBVAEPAOFVYNOBHJEVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of all the tributes paid to Ireland’s retiring trio, the Six Nations social media team struck a rather morbid tone with this particular piece of cinematography.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7DKFJVGI7RBU3H7MD6LKKROT5Q","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"H2ANLE3CUFHFFPXNIW4XHYXXCU","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741364580000},"id":"timestamp-9712","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"SAZ4P4XM3NBCPFCFAK2LQSYEVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"In my quest to find nuggets of information to keep you all suitably entertained, I stumbled across a nice coincidence.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBGIATRWQJFHTIQEN2KOQPMKLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cian Healy, Peter O’Mahony and Conor Murray will tomorrow (March 8th) play their last home game for Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2NCO4W7DX5FOPA63TFHSCUXOKY","additional_properties":{},"content":"March 8th, 2014, another Irish rugby great made his final bow at the Aviva Stadium – Brian O’Driscoll.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KTKCEM2PXRF6NBEI25DWW62KW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Eleven years ago, the day saw Ireland claim a 46-7 victory over Italy on their way to winning the championship.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AC3VAJQ7QZF33FQKTD7LVISJQ4","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"YCRVMVDD2NE5DD5Y7FMEYT54QQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741366560000},"id":"timestamp-42628","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"N4675OMU7ZHVLJJZ2I46BWFDIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last week, Matt Williams implored us to get out and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/02/28/matt-williams-joyous-genius-antoine-dupont-is-the-antidote-to-grim-faced-rugby/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/02/28/matt-williams-joyous-genius-antoine-dupont-is-the-antidote-to-grim-faced-rugby/\">see French captain Antoine Dupont in action</a>. “Watch him and wallow in his greatness. In victory or defeat enjoy Dupont’s play, because none of us may ever see his likes again,” he wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TU67GBRISBCPXGFKWYHU54N3YA","additional_properties":{},"content":"This morning, Gerry Thornley added his two cents, teeing up what will undoubtedly be an epic <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/07/mouthwatering-clash-of-dupont-and-gibson-park-really-one-to-savour/\">battle between Dupont and his Ireland scrumhalf counterpart</a> Jamison Gibson-Park. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XN6AHDQEUFDQZG3SEHJYOVW6HI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“In any other era, Gibson-Park might be considered the best scrumhalf in the world game. As things stand, Gibson-Park is the favourite to be next summer’s Lions Test 9. But, in Dupont, he’s up against the best player in the world,” GT wrote.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZBOGZX35A5CC7MHSKMUHQNOZDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Well, for Johnny Watterson, seeing is believing. He went along to France’s captain’s run at the Aviva this afternoon. Safe to see, he is in utter agreement with his colleagues.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ICYMFEEAZVYMMF5KM3YNFIBEDM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"YQD77OYIUVEZFJOQ5EEU6TUP4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Several inches short of six feet tall, nine pounds shy of 14 stone, Dupont has much to do to stand tall on a rugby pitch.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3BQ67ARV65BYVL4OCZDMRBSHSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Yet here he is out among the bigger, faster and more imposing French players, herding them around the pitch, whipping them from side to side, picking and flicking and then animating for a long pass, but at the last moment cocking his wrists and popping the ball in the air for a runner to come ghosting through from nowhere.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"XELD5G37DZFRNAJ5AGQXZASS2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"French captain and talisman Antoine Dupont happy to stay under the radar - for now","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"ZCT3625CFREHHBKSDU5A75VBQQ","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741369980000},"id":"timestamp-41208","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"HMSZJ7LLK5F6JFLG6YU4PQZC3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"To see us out, Gerry Thornley’s latest Counter Ruck newsletter has landed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PCXW2Z2TD5FFXIWDAZBH56AY4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"\"More often than not, the forwards provide the grunt in the physical exchanges and the backs provide the finesse, but backline replacements are becoming an endangered species with more and more coaches opting for 6-2 and even 7-1 splits‚\" he writes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"446MNMLQEJAP3LFBNA47WIFIFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yes, we’re talking all things replacements this week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKO5TM77YFH2TNZGX4WB2MBKY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry believes the ‘Bomb Squad’ tactic is a “bad look for the sport” which should be stamped out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LOE2DY3YURHQ5HQTTZZ7VKMJA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"\"This would simply serve to make the game both safer and better balanced,\" he adds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WNL3YDUL7ZEPBHYEBWQOWN3SMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Have a read of the full piece below, and if you’d like to receive the Counter Ruck newsletter direct to your inbox you can sign up at the top of the page.","type":"text"},{"_id":"H3AHDTXJSBH4ZFGL3B5K3RH6CE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gerry Thornley: Rugby must put an end to forward-laden benches","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"JE7QRBUGC5ANDKLLPP25XGOMWE","embed":{"config":{"dateTimeField":1741370400000},"id":"timestamp-60510","url":"/"},"subtype":"timestamp_powerup","type":"custom_embed"},{"_id":"CR7O66E2RZAQPNJPZ2NGSKJTRQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"That’s enough from us for today.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C4CUXKEEQFDMJKAPZ27YHYWEJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"We’ll see you back here for tomorrow’s game. John O’Sullivan’s on live blogging duty so you’re in good hands.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CBQ7JC2P5BM7C7KALCPRO46UI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bed early now folks, Saturday’s going to be a big one.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"free"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Muireann Duffy"}},"name":"Muireann Duffy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Team news, expert analysis and everything else you need to know ahead of this weekend’s Six Nations action"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T16:52:21.002Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland v France build-up: Latest Six Nations news ahead of decisive game","native":""},"label":{"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Six 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Essentially, St Pat’s went man on man as Mason Melia was handed a working brief in the number 10 slot with Jake Mulraney and Zach Elbouzedi either side of the teenager while Chris Forrester and Baggley manned the midfield barricades.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J6ISTRGYQFFBNONNCOY22CNNQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tactically, it was the smart approach. Visually, it turned the game into a cautious chess match.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6MYJJUGVZREBTPJC2DAAMPF46Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Baggley came into the St Pat’s team after Monday’s 2-0 defeat of Derry City to dilute Graham Burke’s creative juices. The midfielder took to his man-marking duties with relish. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"BEJTM4BBNBAB5L3NJCP36YCZ5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not so long ago, Kenny was considering Mulraney for international selection. Here he counted on the winger’s curving deliveries into the Rovers box to break the stalemate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A2E2JZHBMNH65IGSEMTXTAAPF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mulraney earned a yellow card for diving after minimal contact from Dan Cleary. A second coming together in the box should have resulted in referee Rob Hennessy sending Mulraney off or awarding a penalty. Instead, the official waved play on.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YT3KCZJEMVGWLHLU2LP5SL5YBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Melia struggled to find space to turn and test Ed McGinty in the Rovers goal. In fact, there was a combined total of zero shots on target in the first-half. At least Rovers ripped off five inaccurate attempts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBX5LFRDYNDAVC2OR6CVMDWCCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Kenny plan was audible: “We got to move it quicker (in transition),” he implored Joe Redmond as the broad-shouldered centre back strolled over halfway.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2NO7M7SF2ZDUVJRUX6CKUUNL7M","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"OQEMLSCH4BD5BL5RZTXMAWLIH4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Josh Honohan was included this week in Heimir Hallgrímsson’s provisional 40-man <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/republic-of-ireland-mnt/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/republic-of-ireland-mnt/\">Republic of Ireland</a> squad for the Nations League relegation play-offs against Bulgaria. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WDP3ZKPCINB3LHBXP5MWMCVDUA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yet Hallgrímsson choose The Late Late Show couch over a trip to Tallaght to assess whether the 23-year-old can do a job for his country.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVTLJPRH55FM5OMSTMWH5PRUPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Ireland manager is due at West Brom on Saturday to catch Mikey Johnston and Jayson Molumby against QPR and Jimmy Dunne at 3pm before a 25-minute spin from the Hawthorns to Molineux to watch Matt Doherty in action for Wolves against Everton and Jake O’Brien in the 8pm kick-off. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VEOFJ63ICVGDZOXGVLNWICB2UM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Honohan, like every other wide player on display, got on the ball plenty of times only to be blocked by St Pat’s dogged right back Axel Sjöberg.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YTYCAM4CGVELDNVTJNZAGOR4GU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Swede did gift Aaron Green a chance on 55 minutes, but the veteran striker’s lob landed on the roof of Joe Anang’s net.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X6TOKZQQ65ACBGIJ4SLGVD5VSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Elsewhere, Galway United secured a 1-1 draw away to Derry and Sligo Rovers versus Cork City also finished 1-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HTEY7TGNBBAXBNM45FSTLYFJ7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>SHAMROCK ROVERS: </b>McGinty; Cleary, Lopes, O’Sullivan; Grant, Healy, Watts (Byrne, 71 mins), McEneff (O’Neill, 84), Honohan; Burke (Noonan, 70); Greene (Gaffney, 78). ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RFZLJDIJSVECZAXZBBSCN7MK2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>ST PATRICK’S ATHLETIC:</b> Anang; Sjoberg, Redmond, Grivosti (Turner, 79 mins), Breslin (Kazeem, 57); Baggley, Forrester; Elbouzedi, Melia (Kavanagh, 70), Mulraney (Power, 70); Keena.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YZDTRO3M7ZHIJJBTEOCLILZQ64","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Referee: </b>R Hennessy.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Gavin Cummiskey"}},"name":"Gavin Cummiskey"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former Bohs recruit bags first goal for Rovers at Tallaght Stadium"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T22:35:43.542Z","headlines":{"basic":"Danny Grant shoots Shamrock Rovers to first win of the season","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"P26TDQHYQVHSLLL56K66DPGLXA","auth":{"1":"19d2bce15f069e206ecec331801f5f2815e93134f727dd0dbb2a864a1f41d892"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/P26TDQHYQVHSLLL56K66DPGLXA.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/danny-grant-shoots-shamrock-rovers-to-first-win-of-the-season-against-st-pats/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"R6NCNKWRGBEWDOKF6TUCOKMVCQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":279,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/2db4d865-fbac-40e9-b61c-2736ce16bc18/versions/1741377534/media/51b366ca1a19ecd23c706cac164e6229_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/liverpool-on-verge-of-90-year-old-scoring-record-but-arne-slot-wants-more/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Luis Enrique described <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liverpool-fc\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liverpool-fc\">Liverpool</a>’s front three as “fighter jets” before their visit to <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paris-saint-germain\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/paris-saint-germain\">Paris Saint‑Germain</a> on Wednesday. He may have succeeded in grounding them but <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/arne-slot\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/arne-slot\">Arne Slot</a>’s side still found a way to soar.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FKDTLOKZERCFBGE5NO2JQKXXFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The exhilarating, aggressive football of Jürgen Klopp has given way to quality control under his successor, but Liverpool are no less effective for that shift. The league leaders, who can go 16 points clear with victory over Southampton on Saturday, have scored more goals after 28 games of this <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/premier-league/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/premier-league/\">Premier League</a> campaign (66) than at the same stage of their last title-winning season, under Klopp in 2019-20 (64). Plymouth, Tottenham (in a Carabao Cup semi-final they ultimately lost 4-1 on aggregate) and Nottingham Forest are the only teams to prevent Slot’s team scoring in 44 matches this season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KG6TA3PT3ZB7ZOJIBCJOXJWCMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Liverpool have scored two or more goals in their last 18 games at Anfield in all competitions. Another two at home to Southampton and it will be the longest such sequence in the English top flight since Sunderland scored two or more in 19 consecutive games in 1935. And some people call them lucky. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IWQJITQ3HVFCHH6Y7FFOYOJZV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not that equalling a 90-year-old feat is Slot’s priority, as he called on Liverpool’s players and fans to treat the visit of the league’s bottom club as “the first of three finals in the next week”, before Tuesday’s Champions League second leg against PSG and Sunday’s Carabao Cup showpiece against Newcastle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V656SOWHL5F7XDRMXDWZF7QSZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s always nice but it is not the record I came to England for,” said the Dutchman on the opportunity to equal Sunderland’s run. “We are not focused on those records, we focus on Southampton and then the Champions League and then the cup final.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VCQB2PVXBRDYRJXJWULV2W2SWY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But it’s a sign that we are balanced and a sign that we have a lot of quality with players who can score goals in our squad. It’s also a sign of consistency and that is what you need, not only scoring goals but also not conceding in a season where you are fighting for the things we are.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"BRDDFIQ4RDYYJQEMVFJVGXBDMQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"EK5TP4TUMZET3BS5IDZ3VJOE3U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mohamed Salah’s phenomenal output includes a goal or an assist in each of the last 11 league games at Anfield. He requires one goal to become the third-highest scorer in Liverpool’s history outright with 242 and two more league goals to go joint-fifth on the all-time Premier League goalscorer’s chart, alongside Sergio Agüero with 184.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OCNAGLJDFVEQJLYYA2ASI6WK34","additional_properties":{},"content":"No one can touch the 32-year‑old’s contribution of 30 goals and 22 assists in all competitions this season but the load is being shared. Cody Gakpo and Luis Díaz are both in double figures, with 16 and 13 goals respectively, Diogo Jota has eight despite another injury-hit campaign and the midfielders Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister and Curtis Jones have a combined total of 15.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PT7RFPQS3NEWFGMZ7GTI743KEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Slot envisages a day when Liverpool are even more prolific. The head coach explained: “Wolves was difficult, Southampton away was difficult, the League Cup there was difficult and against Paris Saint-Germain it was really, really difficult. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NJHW4NUHBNH5XPZQCTK4MDNFZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Yes, we are a really good team but we are not a team that every week wins 4- or 5-0 and after half an hour it is already 3-0. We have seen a team doing that a few times in recent years and I think, longer ago, Liverpool also had that where, after half an hour, it was already 3-0. We are not that team yet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A5J2F7AAJVBAVB2PKL42NKU3AI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It is somewhere we are trying to go to and therefore it is something we need to improve a lot. But what this team does have is fighting spirit and until now they have always found a way to win a game and not always in the same manner, not always dominating ball possession, sometimes also by defending really hard and being good in transition. We know we have to be on top of our game because even if we are on top of our game we mostly win by one-goal margins.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y7LABMNQTFA6RMXIEJNHV3EQHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The latest example, in Paris on Wednesday, was forged on an astonishing goalkeeping display by Alisson. It would be remiss to focus entirely on Liverpool’s striking prowess after that performance. With Giorgi Mamardashvili arriving from Valencia this summer for an initial £25 million and the Brazilian showing why, in Slot’s eyes, he is the best goalkeeper in the world against PSG, the Georgia international has a major fight on his hands to claim the first-choice role he craves next season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGWYGPAV6NABHIZVLPG26UN65I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He is in just as important a phase of the season with Valencia as we are in so it wouldn’t be smart for me to talk about him,” said Slot of Mamardashvili. “But in general I can say that if you want to play for Liverpool, you have to accept there is competition. If you don’t want to face competition then Liverpool is not the best place to go to.” – Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Andy Hunter"}]},"description":{"basic":"Manager says team can be more prolific despite 1935 Sunderland scoring streak being under threat on Saturday"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T22:31:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Liverpool on verge of 90-year-old scoring record but Arne Slot wants more","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"4D5CTYPOETJYVG7IBD7DZDEWRE","auth":{"1":"9b7d5f33c0eb332ff36e3c0d4ab5d0fbe3f6aa33726c0857557cf380bdc88a14"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/4D5CTYPOETJYVG7IBD7DZDEWRE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/liverpool-on-verge-of-90-year-old-scoring-record-but-arne-slot-wants-more/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"5DPAVZSAAVEGFAEXV55MQKAZBE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":151,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/78e373a4-800e-4b01-9a48-5a9dd34220f0/versions/1741368991/media/124e3197b9ab856add70c5734b12af9d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/a-day-off-is-a-day-off-pep-guardiola-relaxed-over-jack-grealish-pub-pictures/","content_elements":[{"_id":"KNO3NZAWGBGSTFITOBD5YO6FVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/pep-guardiola\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/pep-guardiola\">Pep Guardiola</a> is not concerned about images that emerged this week showing <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/jack-grealish\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/jack-grealish\">Jack Grealish</a> socialising, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/manchester-city\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/manchester-city\">Manchester City</a>’s manager stating he judges players on how they train and play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTGNXEISENCNBE3ICAZUZJWWZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Grealish had two days off after last Saturday’s 3-1 FA Cup fifth-round win over Plymouth. On the Sunday he was pictured in a pub in east Manchester and then at two different places, both of which also served alcohol, in the north-east later that day. Guardiola was asked if he is at ease regarding these pictures of Grealish, who was City’s record signing when he joined the club from Aston Villa for £100m in August 2021.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFY44XNN2JHKBIRCAVM3LK2BFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“They know what they have to do,” said Guardiola. “A day off is a day off, there is no training. They have private lives to do whatever they want. I’m not going to control what they do in their private life. I judge what I see on the pitch, the training sessions and the performances in the game. That’s where I judge the players.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"YQEOKITMZZBUPJ6STOPTT4LHPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Grealish has suffered another injury-hampered season which, together with uneven form, has limited him to only 14 starts in all competitions. Guardiola was asked if he would understand the player seeking to depart in the close season to try to guarantee game time elsewhere with a view to securing an England place before the World Cup in 2026.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KP4AE3A76VDD7CRXBPOGV4R2CE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I understand all the frustrations of all my players,” said Guardiola. “It’s so good to have a dream to play in the World Cup and the European Cup with his national team. I’m not bothered by that. What happens in terms of Jack, in terms of everyone, they will be treated at the end of the season. But now we are playing for many important things for the club. I want the best not just for Jack but for everyone. He is a player for Man City. What will happen? I don’t know what is going to happen.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q37TLMJ3PVH2LJ22VMVKAQCZOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"City will travel to the United States after the current campaign to compete in the month-long Club World Cup. Guardiola is intent that his players enjoy the experience. “They told me the golf courses are really nice in America,” said the 54-year-old. “We are going to try to enjoy the experience. After 11 months [playing constantly], I don’t want them to sit in their rooms for 24 hours – of course they have to behave well, or we’ll be in trouble.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NXXQRQXO2VHIPG5NZD37PQIKV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Following surgery on a foot problem, Nathan Aké could be out for 11 weeks, Guardiola said. — Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Jamie Jackson"}]},"description":{"basic":"City manager says players judged on pitch performance: ‘I’m not going to control what they do in their private life’"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T22:30:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘A day off is a day off’: Pep Guardiola relaxed over Jack Grealish pub pictures","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BPBG6TWNH7IQEWS2WGKMKAFWFU","auth":{"1":"5297f07b1578f5d38bcdbc54a7471eed88416aeaf9e94d9a49806bb1a9fdb3b6"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BPBG6TWNH7IQEWS2WGKMKAFWFU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/a-day-off-is-a-day-off-pep-guardiola-relaxed-over-jack-grealish-pub-pictures/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"CGY6KHER6BGVHMP4NDIYRC7PCY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":506,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/06165a67-a3ac-4e60-aacd-100b19dc48d5/versions/1741371429/media/48f5c19fefd65c806c018772f872ce09_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/dangerous-heat-is-a-real-threat-for-the-2026-world-cup-are-teams-ready/","content_elements":[{"_id":"HFDFPBBUUVFNXKVKCK64SS4DKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Over the course of a playing career that wound through Spain, Mexico and the sun-baked fields of Major League Soccer’s summers, American midfielder Tab Ramos was never hotter than at the 1994 <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/world-cup\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/world-cup\">World Cup</a> in the United States.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S25ECR76KRCBNJ3ZPJTNQ7TRYU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The day before the United States opened its tournament against Switzerland in the Pontiac Silverdome, it had been 37 degrees in Michigan. By the 11.30am kick-off on matchday, the temperature reached 32 degrees again. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"M45KSJ3G2NFZTP3NZ5IVC7DERQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Worse still, the Silverdome was an NFL stadium designed for winter – to keep heat in, rather than out. The first World Cup match played indoors was conducted in a dome without air conditioning. On the field, the temperature reached 41 degrees. The grass laid over the artificial turf had been watered so eagerly that, with the sun beating down on the stadium’s fabric roof, the air turned soupy with humidity.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WGGIQVTSNJA7XCVKV25KKD63PY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We were boiling in there,” Ramos says. “They were carrying people out from the upper deck; fans were passing out.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"VGFIAW7JGNDUBMPW2OB4OHPBQE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The heat was one of the players’ biggest gripes all the way through to the final between Brazil and Italy in Pasadena, California, where it was 38 degrees at kick-off. Fifa was unsympathetic. “Journalists predicted players would die [in Mexico],” a spokesman told the LA Times, pointing to the lack of casualties from the 1986 edition, where it was also hot and the air thin and smoggy, as some kind of perverse validation. “We encourage them to drink water.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAILYNLALNBSTCXP6KWLQHUZ4Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"More than three decades on, with the World Cup returning to the United States along with co-hosts Mexico and Canada, the story may be much the same.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7UMNYRYDGNHK5KRBTSNHIXGCKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fourteen of the 16 host cities for next summer’s biggest-ever, 48-team, 104-match World Cup are predicted to see afternoon temperatures high enough to endanger the players. So says a study of the 20-year meteorological record published in The International Journal of Biometeorology in January, which urges organisers to avoid afternoon kick-offs. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VXR5BDWG5ZD2PJBWQB5XKVPBF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nine of the venues will probably experience a wet bulb globe temperature – a measure that combines the effects of the air temperature, humidity, solar radiation and wind speed – above the safety threshold of 28 degrees on more than half the afternoons of hot summers. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"XN4XMNRJP5EYVGNRRHEHKHSIZE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"RWJYTTATCRA6NE2X5VLUXY4TKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The risks will be highest in half a dozen cities with open-air stadiums: East Rutherford, Foxboro, Kansas City, Miami, Monterrey and Philadelphia. (An earlier study, published in October, made a similar prediction, forecasting “very high risk of experiencing severe heat stress conditions” in 10 of 16 venues.)","type":"text"},{"_id":"6Z2ZWELWXBFNNCCBESPDCCE2QQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The threat of extreme heat will be bigger at this World Cup than it was [at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar],” says Dr Donal Mullan, a climate scientist at Queen’s University in Belfast and the lead author of the most recent study. “Some of these venues are kind of a disaster waiting to happen.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LJT6ZB7TWFGSNIYYS45HLI7BBA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was moved from the scorching summer months to November and December to protect the players. The highest wet bulb temperature – which is slightly different from wet bulb globe temperature – recorded during the World Cup in Qatar was 23 degrees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5X5UBUBWBNC27GUOY3GBTIEITM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fifa and US Soccer recommend that games implement cooling and hydration breaks when the WBGT exceeds 32 degrees. More cautious governing bodies, like the Australian federation, set a WBGT limit of 28 degrees before matches can be delayed or even postponed. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"4CQP5NWN3ZBEJPF2OWSVDK7LBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, temperatures below those guidelines can still be dangerous. During the 2024 Copa América, held in the United States, an assistant referee collapsed from heat stress during a match in Kansas City when the WBGT was a mere 27½ degrees. A few days earlier, defender Ronald Araujo had to be substituted out of Uruguay’s opening game with Panama in Miami due to dehydration.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RMQ65ZWCL5FSPATHD4X3NOJG2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"When WBGT reaches around 30 degrees, the body’s physiological frailties are exposed. “The weakest link in the chain is going to break first and the heat will bring that about quickly,” says Dr Robert Huggins, a kinesiology professor at the University of Connecticut who worked with the US women’s national team and the Portuguese men’s team to prepare them to play in major tournaments in high heat. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJZDWSSSJRF3FBAX3T3LM6K62M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“From a thermoregulation perspective, the hotter the ambient temperature and the higher the humidity, the worse our body can dissipate the heat. If my sweat cannot evaporate off the surface of my skin and be accepted by the environment, I will not be able to physically cool my body.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RG3A3VWFHVDONDF5N7PLPYWSKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kick-off times have not been announced for the 2026 World Cup yet, and Fifa did not respond to an email asking whether it would consider player safety in scheduling games and avoid afternoon kick-offs at its hottest venues.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F264TO6X7RF7XBJ6SVFCRC3LBU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"Q2JPSLMQLVDBXNYWVVB2PV3Q2A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“That’s the obvious answer, schedule it outside of these [afternoon] kick-off times,” says Mullan. “If you avoid those afternoon hours between 12 and 6pm, that would make an enormous difference.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQ4O24YAHBBPDOG5SX7VRF5Z2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The tournament’s expanded format will make that difficult. For most of the first two rounds of the group stage, there will be four matches a day. During the last round of group stage matches, there will be six games a day. The round of 32 has five days with three scheduled matches. To maximise TV viewership around the world, a good number of those matches will probably have to be played in the afternoon heat.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7AYN4BIRYZCE7IOD7CG4AW2BNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The study Mullan authored was based on the summer temperatures from 2003 through 2022, which is to say, Mullan points out, that it represents a conservative estimate that did not incorporate the record heat in the summers of 2023 and 2024. Nor, for that matter, does it account for the possibility of wildfire smoke.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6XK2YB2BBFF3ICFNRIZYE4VZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fifpro, the trade union of professional soccer players, has urged Fifa to lower the WBGT temperatures at which cooling breaks are mandated to 26 degrees and set a limit at which games are to be delayed or postponed at 28 degrees. Yet even those measures may not be enough in the eyes of some experts. A paper co-authored by Fifpro’s chief medical officer, Vincent Gouttebarge, questions whether a single cooling break per half is sufficient.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L7MLC43HPJFSBKD6KJK7SW2L7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"And lowering the threshold at which cooling breaks or delays and postponements kick in may not be enough to protect players and match officials. Dr Glen Kenny, a professor of human and environmental physiology at the University of Ottawa and a world-renowned expert on the links between exercise and heat strain, warns that WBGT limits may prove insufficient to protect players and officials. Because there are, he argues, still too many loose variables that portend risk – like the number of games and training sessions a player has completed in the previous days, and at what temperature.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y4PT45ZQLJGHBMV6FGM47AM5YE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I get the idea that we want to be protective,” says Kenny. “You’re trying to come up with a threshold that is all-encompassing, essentially protect everybody – one size fits all. But there will be other factors that may come into play here that are essentially going to limit that person’s ability to thermoregulate.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"WAP6OLPZWJDITASXIB7ZZ3VW6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"After studying the effects of heat strain for decades, Kenny says that it remains difficult to predict how individuals will cope working in dangerously hot conditions, especially if the exposure is sustained over a longer period. Someone playing or practising in the heat for a 14th consecutive day, he argues, will respond differently than they did on the first day. “Even if they hydrate adequately, you will see that the next day the vast majority of them are going to be dehydrated,” Kenny says. “That in itself degrades their capacity to lose heat. So that same threshold may not be relevant on day 14.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LL7JWGGC5BDKDOSVJWONANQSTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"If there was a silver lining to the chaos sowed by pushing the Qatar World Cup to the fall, in the middle of the European club season, it was that players were not yet exhausted by the cumulative strain of a season that runs 10 months or longer. That won’t be the case in 2026.","type":"text"},{"_id":"THQ2OB5SLZDXFCK4JWHZJUUMY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“If you think of the timing of the World Cup, June and July, it comes at the end of a very challenging season for a lot of the players, playing 50, 55 domestic and continental games,” says Mullan. “A lot of these players are at massive risk as it is.” – Guardian","type":"text"},{"_id":"IKHYXQDLAZE63DLRDV76Z46F5Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Leander Schaerlaeckens is at work on a book about the United States men’s national soccer team, out in 2026. He teaches at Marist College.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Leander Schaerlaeckens"}]},"description":{"basic":"Experts warn that cooling breaks and later kick-off times may be needed to cope with scorching temperatures"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T18:10:37.877Z","headlines":{"basic":"Dangerous heat is a real threat for the 2026 World Cup. Are teams ready? ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"CXFAYF3IIJEIPMVAKDJJE54OLE","auth":{"1":"13d3018bace69e3825eb7dde34e701da251466c03f3d3d957b8a4eb35763596b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CXFAYF3IIJEIPMVAKDJJE54OLE.jpg"}},"subtype":"feature","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/dangerous-heat-is-a-real-threat-for-the-2026-world-cup-are-teams-ready/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"CXJJTQJNGJDFXNV4DUXMOE7HPQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":168,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/f225b06a-60b0-4f27-a0ea-b96295eeb07c/versions/1741362371/media/85ca726f947a235d02dc80d641bd7fc5_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/millwall-goalkeeper-liam-roberts-has-suspension-extended-to-six-games/","content_elements":[{"_id":"OXVAYQOBRFBELAWZ34DMJ3QPMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has been handed a six-match ban for his challenge on Jean-Philippe Mateta which hospitalised the Crystal Palace forward.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AD2CSNFG5NCEVAZAIGXTD3ZTIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Roberts’s high boot caused lacerations to Mateta’s ear after the pair came together to challenge for the ball during last Saturday’s FA Cup fifth-round tie at Selhurst Park.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NSRUJYA66JFXFJVB3OOA53KYUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The English Football Association submitted a claim to have the ban extended from the standard three matches, claiming three games was “clearly insufficient” for the offence, and the governing body confirmed on Friday that an independent regulatory panel had issued a six-match suspension to Roberts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2YN5GHGXJEP3HVYBZSEGP6INA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Lions goalkeeper immediately said he accepted the sanction in a statement on his club’s website.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NM74H2PNU5BXNGR7Y2KM2NG3L4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am devastated by what happened. I unequivocally accept the red card as awarded and accept my punishment,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OOPUVXM675CVLJDW5HWKBQFNJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Furthermore, it has been extremely unpleasant to observe suggestions that I intended to harm a fellow professional. I have categorically never stepped on to a football pitch with the intention of hurting anyone.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJFC6EB7DBDZZDHHPLWQSDTRSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Misleading articles and comments have resulted in an unthinkable amount of abusive messages and threats towards my family and I.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IX73GG3X3VB6PIR5D7BY54ZKCE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“To the footballing community who know me and reached out with support through this tough time, thank you, I appreciate every single message.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ATFUTV5D6FGXRMOZFYAG4KZGFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner is optimistic Mateta will recover in time to face Fulham in their FA Cup quarter-final at the end of the month after the French striker required 25 stitches to repair his lacerated left ear.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3UXAJFW5WBDFTJGIFOS3QREESA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glasner, whose side next host Ipswich in the Premier League, told a press conference: “Mateta is doing well. He is at home and his recovery is going well. He had no fractures or concussion. Healing from the huge wound is going as we expected.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ZNCDLEPMBHJHA6ZE6QXJEPLEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He will go to Marbella with us next week and be just training individually. If everything goes how we wish, he will be available versus Fulham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQ7IYAEJWBEPTJXSNB52W2KSUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We lost JP in this game, we can’t play him tomorrow, but it’s not too bad.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q3GNDZF3LFFRZDM7BW677E2SRM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Glasner insisted his players have largely put last weekend’s unsettling incident behind them.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7A2PYH3S6JELJFL7MSWSAAIUTE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He added: “To be honest, it wasn’t a big topic here in the training ground. The players had two days off [after the Millwall game] and, of course, everybody was in touch with JP and messaging him and I think everybody could see how he is.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BUTVSCMC55A5ZIPMIHA7UTVIP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The evening after the Millwall game, it was announced all’s fine with him and everybody knows he is doing well, and he will be back soon. We started on Tuesday focusing on Ipswich.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AMFK6MKPBRFPTOTOB37NIY4E24","additional_properties":{},"content":"“JP’s mother came over from France and she took care of him, so he’s in the best hands!","type":"text"},{"_id":"ECTS3URTCRAPLB4N7DSXCOEXD4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He has great support at home. He will go with us to Marbella and will be in good hands again and he will start training with us.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Crystal Palace hope Jean-Philippe Mateta can return in time for FA Cup quarter-final with Fulham"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T15:41:05.693Z","headlines":{"basic":"Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts has suspension extended to six games","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"Q7OS4N54UAJSF4LVQVXXSF4ZWY","auth":{"1":"bc7b7c16ada18d8140ddf58434e27303fa425d53d3d5dc27f3a0bf6b8dcb4cde"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/Q7OS4N54UAJSF4LVQVXXSF4ZWY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/millwall-goalkeeper-liam-roberts-has-suspension-extended-to-six-games/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"QPVZ5R3DNVD7JLQSHBW4BHDNM4","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":176,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/39fb98b6-511a-49de-8f54-eca74c70de90/versions/1741351700/media/37bfdc47685c1b128388271407b9da94_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/fans-prepared-to-travel-from-near-and-far-for-celtics-pre-season-friendly-in-cork/","content_elements":[{"_id":"C4EL6NAVABHSJEHDEAQ7HFZAXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The inaugural Cork Super Cup featuring <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/celtic\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/celtic\">Celtic</a> and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cork-city\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cork-city\">Cork City </a>at Supervalu <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pairc-ui-chaoimh\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pairc-ui-chaoimh\">Páirc Uí Chaoimh</a> in July is already generating a lot of interest from Celtic fans all over Ireland as well as in Scotland, early indications suggest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GD3J5MG4RRCORL77AH7Q26E3KA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Neil Reilly of the Association of Irish Celtic Supporters Clubs said he had learned that presale figures show strong demand from Celtic fans in Northern Ireland, Scotland and further afield. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"STYAXMB5UFEU3PPDCDN3IFACPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There has been a lot of interest from within Ireland with supporters travelling from as far as Donegal, Tyrone and Belfast. I know of quite a few from Glasgow and also from Germany that have booked up already for the game,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BNL6ZV3A4ZA43BD3S6X575OKPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The numbers of Irish fans going to Celtic home games is increasing week on week, this surge is being replicated with the number of enquiries I have received since Monday, especially from families who want to come to Cork to see the Bhoys play.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QLKSYJMXOVCJJE5I73UVLL5VL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The tickets went on sale on Friday morning, priced from €28 for the terraces and €30 for the stands, while children’s tickets range in price from €18 to €20. A family ticket (two adults and two children) are available for €115 and the organisers have arranged a dedicated block in the stadium for families.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BVJYMRL4DRBI7CGX4BHEPO2AQ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lord Mayor of Cork Cllr Dan Boyle of the Green Party said he expected the game on Leeside to prove a sell-out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OCSBHWXYBRDJPCGFQVBH7YMSVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Cork is a brilliant city for a short visit and promises a brilliant atmosphere for those who will travel for the game. My father was a diehard Celtic fan, so this match has an added significance for me. I look forward to Cork giving fans from far and wide a huge welcome on July 8th.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"I3WDDJKC7RCBDOPVYAKS6GCQF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AOJHVF3NBCZPPNTHSQZNX2LCM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"PQQSVZGYTBC6XFC3QFYZ3FBJCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cork GAA chief executive Kevin O’Donovan wouldn’t be drawn on what the game would be worth to the county, who are promoting the game with Druid Sports. Munster’s sell-out clash against New Zealand side the Crusaders at the ground is believed to have netted Cork GAA between €150,000 to 200,000.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IXDB4YWGTFEQPMJSKIUICWDXZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The profits from the game will assist Cork GAA in their efforts to pay off the €30 million debt still outstanding on the 45,000 capacity stadium which cost a €96 million when it went a major redevelopment between 2015 to 2017.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N6KGG2S5XBBBZNVNN24S6AKVZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The game will be just the third soccer match to be played at Cork GAA HQ after the women’s soccer international in 2024 and a Man Utd Legends XI and a Celtic/Republic of Ireland XI in 2018 which raised funds for the family of the late Liam Miller who played for both Celtic and Manchester United in his career as a professional footballer.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QPLTAY3JFNB5PJBX3RB7SQT4XM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tickets for the inaugural Cork Super Cup, which go on sale this morning, are available from either<a href=\"http://corksupercup.com/tickets\" rel=\"\"> CorkSuperCup.com/tickets</a> or directly from <a href=\"http://ticketmaster.ie/\" rel=\"\">ticketmaster.ie</a>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Barry Roche"}},"name":"Barry Roche"}]},"description":{"basic":"July’s game at Páirc Uí Chaoimh expected to be a sell-out "},"display_date":"2025-03-07T12:43:16.796Z","headlines":{"basic":"Celtic fans prepared to travel from near and far for pre-season friendly in Cork","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"},"basic":{"display":true,"text":"Celtic v Cork City"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"CPSCXVASAV3QPXXGR3OYW35U2Y","auth":{"1":"af99de69761752e10cd44f0bf2d6fc86789f20459a89cdbae2f9ee5fb2f8b51b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/CPSCXVASAV3QPXXGR3OYW35U2Y.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/07/fans-prepared-to-travel-from-near-and-far-for-celtics-pre-season-friendly-in-cork/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"PBID2HOWE5F3DO3C2V5LOMTBIA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":260,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0acc2ce4-1d4f-41a2-b0bb-0f84e4712145/versions/1741294103/media/9605fb02c50001076f5fc5022290fb4a_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/06/troy-parrott-gives-inspired-display-as-az-take-advantage-of-abject-tottenham/","content_elements":[{"_id":"PQMARQ5MKZGE5HZDSC3JZH53IY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Europa League Last 16, first leg: AZ Alkmaar (Bergvall 18og) Tottenham Hotspur 0</b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"QUN5DBJICZGIBBKRDNYGQGVAAQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"If Ange Postecoglou was hoping that things may be different for <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/tottenham-hotspur\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/tottenham-hotspur\">Tottenham </a>in the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/europa-league\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/europa-league\">Europa League</a> then he was sadly mistaken. An abject display in which his side fell behind to an early own goal from the unfortunate Lucas Bergvall and then failed to lay a glove on AZ Alkmaar means the Australian’s chances of maintaining the record of winning a trophy in his second season at every club he has managed now rest on next week’s second leg.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7BVBCDSXOBGDLBL7Y7GATIJLGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The home side – who are known as the cheese farmers – could have been out of sight after repeatedly finding holes in the Spurs defence had it not been for two excellent saves from Guglielmo Vicario, including one to deny Tottenham academy graduate <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/troy-parrott\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/troy-parrott\">Troy Parrott</a> in the first half. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZFROSGLZFHMFKFRZOX4CGSJOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Even though they have not reached the quarter-finals of this competition in five attempts since 2013, Postecoglou said beforehand that his players sensed an opportunity to win it now that some of his players are back from injury. But the sight of Tottenham’s record signing, Dominic Solanke, limping off late with a suspected back problem on his return from seven weeks out with a knee injury made it an even more disastrous evening for the head coach.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5PKQMQUV4REIBMYQ5TJHQMZMOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Postecoglou had seemed encouraged by the prospect of welcoming back Solanke and the defenders Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven after their spells on the sidelines. But he and the 950 away fans who made the trip will have had their enthusiasm diminished having seen Mathys Tel once again fail to make an impression up front and be removed at half-time as Spurs struggled badly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HDAGQDBQJFCK3JSCQD4CT5BPUY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Liverpool’s Arne Slot cut his teeth as manager of AZ before moving on to Feyenoord – following in the footsteps of Louis van Gaal and Dick Advocaat. The club up the road from Amsterdam have a decent pedigree in this competition having reached the semi-finals in 2023. Maarten Martens’ side was packed with players who helped them to win Uefa’s Youth League that year, although they were missing playmaker Sven Mijnans and Ruben van Bommel – son of the former Netherlands captain Mark.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3PEXUKUXDVFUZPLL2HZUZFMCSE","additional_properties":{},"content":"AZ’s current youth team dumped Real Madrid out of the same competition on Wednesday and the senior side have a formidable record in their compact home ground, having beaten Galatasaray 4-1 in Alkmaar in the previous round. Roared on by a boisterous crowd, Ernest Poku helped set the tone as he immediately caused Djed Spence problems down the left flank. The breakthrough came from a corner when Parrott volleyed the ball back in the general direction of the goal and it took a wicked slice as Bergvall attempted to clear before looping over the helpless Vicario. The stadium announcer initially gave the goal to Parrott, who looked like a man on a mission against his former club.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OWMT7DUOJHEUBUKC5LD3P2WOUU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"H4MJHADB2JEAHEFXX46OWQBDUE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Tottenham struggled to get to grips with a bumpy surface and looked vulnerable whenever they lost the ball to a midfield being patrolled by veteran Jordie Clasie, once of Southampton. Son Heung-min was guilty of not tracking Denso Kasius when he played in Parrott for a golden opportunity to double AZ’s lead but the Republic of Ireland striker could not find a way past Vicario. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WCOXTXPFW5CTFHWAOWSKARKVPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Despite dominating possession, Spurs finally had an effort worthy of note when Brennan Johnson fired over from distance five minutes before half-time. They somehow survived a goalmouth scramble from another corner when Parrot and Poku had been allowed acres of space in the buildup. Something clearly needed to change.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJPDFNERIJHCFBVZJ7JDLKEF4E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Postecoglou decided to bring on Wilson Odobert for Tel and move Son into the centre, with Bergvall coming close to making amends after a driving run that ended with him curling a shot just wide of the post. AZ continued to look dangerous and it needed a full stretch save from Vicario to keep out Poku’s drive after a clever flick from Parrott. Rodrigo Bentancur did not help Postecoglou’s mood when he was booked for a late challenge that will rule him out of next week’s second leg.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GG5OXZXSQJDZPPHKVOD6CVC2BE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Solanke, Pedro Porro and Pape Sarr were summoned from the bench, with the disappointing James Maddison one of those to make way. It did not seem to make much of a difference as Tottenham continued to look ineffective. Parrott was given a standing ovation when he was taken off with 10 minutes to go and AZ’s only regret will be that they could not find a second goal their superiority deserved.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M565V4DGOZGVTA5PZQFEGIWSP4","additional_properties":{},"content":"For Postecoglou, the pressure is only mounting and he will need to find some answers if Spurs are not going to finish yet another season empty-handed.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ed Aarons at AZ Stadion"}]},"description":{"basic":"Striker denied goal against his old side by brilliant save, but plays vital role in winner"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T20:43:19.208Z","headlines":{"basic":"Troy Parrott gives inspired display as AZ take advantage of abject Tottenham","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2USFNCHYDGNXKAQLM2IUPODW54","auth":{"1":"913028c24a98ebbc13d76a7c04f04982101a2649479180c1d0d64d9a6fd43345"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2USFNCHYDGNXKAQLM2IUPODW54.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Soccer"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/06/troy-parrott-gives-inspired-display-as-az-take-advantage-of-abject-tottenham/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/soccer","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Soccer"}}}},{"_id":"AM462EGQLJBPNA62KMQ752UQJY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":349,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/e8ee9575-f81a-4f72-ae2f-84588e1e18b7/versions/1741292822/media/fcdf772b6ff79c8db35078d3c8b27d36_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/soccer/2025/03/06/joshua-zirkzee-helps-manchester-united-earn-hard-fought-draw-at-sociedad/","content_elements":[{"_id":"TCHDCUJO3ZH4VCWEN6XS37MR4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Europa League Last 16, first leg: Real Sociedad 1 (Oyarzabal 70 pen) Manchester United 1 (Zirkzee 57) </b>","type":"header"},{"_id":"R7BQM7HP5BEQNBL3IRDUGFSE6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the end, two outstretched hands were decisive. The first, from Bruno Fernandes, probably denied Manchester United a victory; the second, from André Onana, definitely denied Real Sociedad one. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"EQPR4ICBMNBRLDTMU7A2POVQFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"After a first half low on quality, Manchester United gave themselves a first-leg lead against Real Sociedad when Joshua Zirkee guided a side-footed shot beyond Alex Remiro that had appeared to set them up not just for a win but potentially one big enough to virtually see them through. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3QNKCFDXYJHZRCQKATTILXUZ6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"But an eagle eye and a video replay gave Real a penalty that allowed them to draw level and in the very last minute, they almost added a second.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YGRCUAPIDJFSZKVYL2YOAVEB3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ultimately, a 1-1 draw is not a bad result for United to take from a night when they did not always impress, but it will have frustrated them and it offered little evidence of them having overcome their most pressing problems. Instead it revealed some of the flaws, epecially in the first half.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OY2M3P2V4JFMZDG37DCOIQ6K2E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The game began with United’s players running into the left corner and waiting for a long, largely aimless punt in their rough direction, and for much of the opening period that felt like it had set the tone a little. More, certainly, than Onana’s neat little drag back to escape Mikel Oyarzabal a few seconds later. United’s first shot was a slightly scuffed effort from Alejandro Garnacho after 10 minutes. Soon after that, Fernandes looked up, appealed for some movement and struck a long diagonal out of play.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NH74COEYK5HWZHASSTHILJ5LHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"The game was slow and cautious and not particularly precise. Real Sociedad had more of the ball, which United didn’t seem to mind; not least as the game only really accelerated when Take Kubo took possession and those were only fleeting glimpses. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"VTK66G6R5FH4HKHEGIQIHLUPGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"When Beñat Turrientes came inside and took aim, he slipped and the shot dribbled apologetically wide. At which point, the referee, Ivan Kruzliak, pointed at his watch and told Onana to hurry up. 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Lowry’s superb round at Arnie’s Place may have moved him into the lead, but McIlroy’s second successive 70 for 140 meant the Northern Irishman, too, entered the weekend in contention, if cast in the role of one of Lowry’s pursuers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6N2IZHLKTRHENDNJRAAICWODKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry, with a new Srixon driver in his bag for this fourth signature event of the PGA Tour season, has made a great start to this Ryder Cup year and his form over the opening two rounds at Bay Hill – where he finished third behind Scottie Scheffler last year – again reaffirmed just how comfortable in his own skin he is around this piece of Florida real estate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RCJR6UQNJNCHZOHMAAHSWPB2SQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The key? “I think it’s my iron play is good, and conservative when it needs to be. You need that around places like this. I just like the grind of pars are good, you know. There’s a lot of weeks out here where you get where you shoot level par for nine holes and you feel like you’re beating your head against the wall. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"NNVDEBA7A5G7ZCUZKLDDKGRCUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Whereas, weeks like this, level par after nine you’re actually doing okay, you’re a little run away from having a lovely day. I like the type of golf where any time you break 70 you feel like you’ve had a good day,” said Lowry, whose birdies came at the second, third, seventh, 10th, 13th and 18th, with his only blemish coming on the par-5 16th where he pushed his drive down the right behind trees.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DL7Y4S3BBBXXLMIYGKYOO5WTA4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TNFBQUCZV5CRFJNGWM4OHVJ3BI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Playing with McIlroy for a second day was, Lowry, reckoned, good for him: “Look, you’re out there with one of the best golfers in the world, with big crowds, great golf course, lovely weather, what’s not to like? It’s easy to get up for something like that. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"POTXY3HFSZBOHPVQSA7CBQFGLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel like I thrive in those situations. And, yeah, I enjoyed my couple of days and I feel like we did play off each other a little bit. I know he probably feels like he could be better, but he’s still in a great position going into the weekend.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RKWVP2FSJNFXNJQTWX2Z4OLRCQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry assumed the clubhouse lead two shots clear of first-round leader Wyndham Clark, with McIlroy lurking four shots behind. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6VJGBFKTRCPZK7ND7QZZZR624","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of his mindset headed into the weekend, Lowry remarked: “It’s about putting the ball in play, just fairways and greens are key. If you can hit a load of greens out here, and then you’re probably going to end up with four or five par putts that you need to hole at the right time, and if you can do that you can win the tournament.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"IUZ7AVVHYVC75FETYABXTWRRKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHGBJKH2JRFM7BXPGBGD6ONN5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"QJ5BRDVFVRHSBPEN2H24UGL6GU","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Rory McIlroy four shots off the pace but well in the hunt in Florida"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T20:16:56.258Z","headlines":{"basic":"Shane Lowry goes top of leaderboard at Arnold Palmer Invitational after 67","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"JEPCCWG5HVP3L4UUXP7TMW57G4","auth":{"1":"a389db3ed12078d01b961fae2477f4ab75f952b5225bb6e3b28e993b73c6f0d1"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/JEPCCWG5HVP3L4UUXP7TMW57G4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/07/shane-lowry-goes-top-of-leaderboard-at-arnold-palmer-invitational-after-67/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"W7KOFJ6TSNB55HK5XNHAAA4ASQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":335,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/2ab56647-9505-4ce3-8609-46b7cb8eac50/versions/1741204433/media/849e1ee2da1b2400c606602b7668e9a1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/05/mcilroy-changes-his-armoury-for-tilt-at-20m-arnold-palmer-invitational/","content_elements":[{"_id":"QCCESQWHE5CMXB6QZUISC7JWUI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> has conducted something of a spring clean in terms of his equipment, with a new TaylorMade Qi35 dot driver and fairway woods in his bag for the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, where he will have <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\">Shane Lowry</a> as company for the opening two rounds as he seeks to maintain a strong formline at the Orlando venue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"54XPS2PANZH4DA5PJ3MF4EKE44","additional_properties":{},"content":"A winner in 2018, McIlroy has six top-10s in his last eight starts at the API, and the world number two – already a winner on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/pga-tour\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/pga-tour\">PGA Tour</a> this season at last month’s AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am – has bolstered his armoury for this latest tilt at one of the $20 million signature events on the US circuit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"44ZPEZGKCBG2NA52R4BN3SPV3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"McIlroy changed his ball ahead of that win in California, and that has resulted in the knock-on change to going back to three wedges and now changing the make-up of his longer clubs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4GFF7FACK5CDDNTSLVNE325ZHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I sort of had to look at the top end of the bag then of how I was going to configure it. For a while I’ve been looking for a club that sort of carries 300 in the air. I feel like there’s a lot of golf courses we go to that really pinch in at like 310, 320, and I would hit a 3-wood ... I can’t hit a driver because it’s just too narrow, but then I would hit my 3-wood that’s going like 285, 290, but guys that are shorter than me are hitting driver sort of 300 or 310, so I feel like I was at a disadvantage in some ways, even to people that hit it shorter than me depending upon the course set-up. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D2QWX5L4ENFGNP6GZERL4PGK5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“So I messed around with the mini driver last year, but I just couldn’t quite get comfortable with it. So I’ve sort of been playing around with stronger 3-woods. This 3-wood that I have carries like 300, 305 in the air, which is a really, really good club for me to have. And then I’ve went from a 5-wood to a 4-wood. And that 4-wood sort of bridges that gap. And then I’ve got the 3-iron that sort of replaces the 5-wood,” said McIlroy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E4QGZ72PGVEJ7JSURG4JHLDIIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"World number one <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/scottie-scheffler\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/scottie-scheffler\">Scottie Scheffler</a> made an equipment change a year ago in taking McIlroy’s advice to put a TaylorMade Spider into his bag − the inclusion of that mallet putter resulting in a stellar year for the American.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6IYYASI3S5EAVHIAP5TGAA6XKA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Reflecting back on that putter change, Scheffler – fully fit again having been forced to miss a couple of early-season tournaments due to a hand injury which required minor surgery – said: “When I look back to a year from now I think about how different I feel over the ball on the greens. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"LRCBZVJVFZBHFO2J6GWFJEUSPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Any time the ball’s not going in the hole I think you – myself especially – you try and do anything you can to almost force the ball in there, and that’s not how golf is, you can’t force things in this sport. You especially can’t force things at PGA Tour events. Feeling more free, not lining up the ball, just getting over, leaning into my athleticism and focusing as much as I can out there on just playing the game. Those are some of the big differences for me when I look back to where I was a year ago.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DE222HTOYQ4IAZLPXOTYEFXV5E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GZEBRSA7FBE6BJCK646ZHAEII4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>The Lowdown - Arnold Palmer Invitational</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"AGY5PCSIXNFKHM6NDWATCUFIJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Purse: </b>€18.6 million (€3.7m to the winner).","type":"text"},{"_id":"LPRIPM3WIBCXBOQKRJ5IHAYBOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where: </b>Orlando, Florida, USA.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E6TQBELXT5GMFH2WAZHLSWDSZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The course: </b>Known as “Arnie’s Place” for its long-time association with Arnold Palmer, Bay Hill – 7,466 yards and Par 72 – was designed by Dick Wilson and Joe Lee and features copious water hazards. The finishing two holes typically provide for exciting finishes to a tournament with a rich history, held at the venue every year since 1979. The Par 3 17th measures 221 yards from an elevated tee to a green which has water lurking on three sides, and the once large bunker to the front (an integral part of Palmer’s thinking) is no more, having been removed and replaced by rough. The Par 4 18th is a 458-yard hole that features a slightly blind tee shot to the fairway and an approach to a long, narrow green that again has water in play down the right.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7ZYMZ2LJCVFJTDQYFN3QJBKHXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>The field: </b>Quite literally a loaded field, the tournament’s designated elevated status on the PGA Tour bringing all of the highrollers to Orlando, headed by world number one Scottie Scheffler and world number two Rory McIlroy. Xander Schauffele is recovered from a rib injury that has kept him sidelined since the season-opening Sentry in Hawaii. Nine of the world’s top 10 and 23 of the top 25 are playing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HSG7Y6GZ25CEXAEHVWGP6NJJJE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote: </b>“You can’t speak enough of what Arnold Palmer and his legacy means to our game. I sort of try to do it the way that he does it, or the way he did it, which was amazing. If you can slightly do it the way that he did it I think you’re going to be pretty good” – Ludvig Aberg, the current FedEx Cup points leader, on following in Palmer’s footsteps.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P5KBNGV4VBGS7N6JPCDZRY7ONA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irish in the field: </b>Shane Lowry and Rory McIlroy are paired together for the first two rounds (1st round tee time 6pm Irish time on Thursday).","type":"text"},{"_id":"YDJAPHYYB5GJTEA5AGIN2YGUPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting: </b>Scottie Scheffler, still chasing a first win of the season, is installed as a tight 10/3 favourite as he bids to successfully defend the title he won last year, while Rory McIlroy – another past winner – is a 15/2 shot. Ludvig Aberg’s strong start to the season, marked by a win in The Genesis on his recovery from illness, has the Swede rated a decent-looking 14/1. Shane Lowry is available at 28/1 and his closing round at last week’s Cognizant makes those odds tempting. The value bet looks to be that of Maverick McNealy (runner-up to Aberg in the Genesis) who is priced at 45/1 (each way).","type":"text"},{"_id":"RDBT7RIIR5GY5FU7NBJX33RNZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>On TV: </b>On Sky Sports Golf (from 7pm).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"‘Arnie’s Place' has copious water hazards, which will be a challenge for all the highrollers playing in Orlando"},"display_date":"2025-03-05T19:50:42.774Z","headlines":{"basic":"McIlroy changes his driver and fairway woods for tilt at $20m Arnold Palmer Invitational","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"UYWAO73OQS7JAG72LUWULBTJ6Q","auth":{"1":"917333d9b7ce105bbc16281904c9ea1684c835098878b233a9dd7143fabaa8aa"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/UYWAO73OQS7JAG72LUWULBTJ6Q.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/05/mcilroy-changes-his-armoury-for-tilt-at-20m-arnold-palmer-invitational/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"UFSJIOISOJGWHPO4FNVKREWP6M","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/02/former-biker-ryan-peake-books-his-place-at-royal-portrush/","content_elements":[{"_id":"H3GJUYS6LZB7RGF45JCALIQXPI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ryan Peake, a former member of an outlawed motorcycle gang who served five years in jail for assault, shot a five-under-par 66 to win the 104th edition of the New Zealand Open by a shot in Queenstown on Sunday. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"SIZOIA6HPZGMBBQEJNSAZFJAWM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The burly Australian, who was released from prison in 2019, finished on 23-under 261 for the four rounds on the composite course at Millbrook Resort to claim his first title in his debut season on the PGA Tour of Australasia.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XEURH6I7PVABTKIWTEFHS2SVHE","additional_properties":{},"content":"A fifth birdie of the day at the 17th set up by a perfectly-judged eagle putt took the left-hander out of a four-way tie for the lead with fellow Australian Jack Thompson (63), South African Ian Snyman (66) and Japan’s Higa Kazuki (66).","type":"text"},{"_id":"72JPCWCDZ5FT3PYZJEVZQOY6QA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Peake held his nerve to sink a six-foot par putt at the last to secure the winner’s cheque from the $1.12 million co-sanctioned Asian Tour event as well as a ticket to this year’s Open at Royal Portrush.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AJRNSFVFBJCLRJK3S2E72SBPYA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s life-changing,” said the tattooed 31-year-old, who let out a huge roar when the ball landed in the cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IC6YL7BEORFELEYFU63O5WL7UQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I always knew I could do it, it was just a matter of time when I was going to do it. My coach, my family, my team, everyone believed. Most of all, I believed as well.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TZYVERP5MNDSFC6GPIBDIIOUXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Just changed my life. This is what I do, I want to be here and just play golf. The [back]) story is what it is, but I’m just out here playing golf.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"MPVK4HDE2VERTG5GMDDKUOYOHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A promising golfer in his youth, Peake hit the rails when he quit the game in his late teens and joined the Rebels motorcycle club, which the Australian government considers to be a criminal organisation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LKKTIH52CVACBCRH5DLL2PBSCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"His rehabilitation started when he was contacted in prison by coach Ritchie Smith who encouraged him to take up the clubs again after his release from custody.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FMEW53COXREEPBRNK57OFZUQNQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Peake’s arrival in Queenstown was delayed while he gained the papers he requires to travel outside Australia because of his criminal record, but he made light of his lack of practice time on the course over the four days.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KXRE6XEKLREKFOFPGGTTVUQU2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think just by getting here, I’d kind of already won, because it was just like another monkey off the back, just getting another stamp on that passport for me,” Peake added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W7BLITE75JHLTNCS445JUQAHQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Thompson, Snyman and Higa Kazuki shared second place on 22-under with South Korea’s Koh Gun-taek, who held a four-shot lead going into the final round, a further shot back in fifth place. ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"One-shot victory in New Zealand Open secures former prisoner a maiden title success"},"display_date":"2025-03-02T14:24:26.782Z","headlines":{"basic":"Former biker gang member who served five years in jail secures spot at the Open in Royal Portrush","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KGV5LC477BI3X4SF7C2ZB6AMJE","auth":{"1":"d2d23209291a2b682ef9ae3da1e2eeabd292f0d7a8d25568cd8a7e83d24f8639"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KGV5LC477BI3X4SF7C2ZB6AMJE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/03/02/former-biker-ryan-peake-books-his-place-at-royal-portrush/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"M4JETY6DG5EAPALWIL2UHTPPYI","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/28/dale-whitnell-makes-two-holes-in-one-in-same-round-at-south-african-open/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FANXY6GXARBVDMBVJYBKDVMHWQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"English golfer Dale Whitnell carded two holes-in-one during a once-in-a-lifetime round on day two of the South African Open.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MEBXPYA5AFEG5DH3RDGVNXTIGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 36-year-old, whose <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dp-world-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dp-world-tour/\">DP World Tour</a> breakthrough came in the 2023 Scandinavian Mixed, aced the 179-yard second in soft, calm conditions at the Durban Country Club and then repeated the feat at the 149-yard 12th.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W63OL347MVG4VEVJ2LV2UQPSGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is estimated the odds of making two holes-in-one in the same round are 67 million to one.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CFYW4EXPEVAYLFAIAWYPUGRXGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"At one stage Whitnell, who immediately followed his first ace with an eagle, needed birdies at his final three holes to card a 59, but that quest fell apart after flying the 16th green.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5G3WBJ2C6RHRDPDPEKF7W5SI44","additional_properties":{},"content":"In attempting to chip in for birdie from an awkward side-hill lie, the clubhead slid completely under the ball and moved it only a couple of inches and he took another three shots to get up and down for a double-bogey six.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VOMZ4COTBVCJ3IBYMP2NG6STHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"He signed for a nine-under 63, having shot a level-par in the first round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RVWMNBNYCRESDA6W6U6U64MMIY","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"C22BDZU3QJBTHLFGDOALO5FBDU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Although the odds of double aces are high, there have been a number of instances of them occurring.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A25G22QUBNF37KZJZK46ZYNMDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"John Hudson registered two at the European Tour’s Martini International at Royal Norwich in 1971. Brian Harman, who would go on to become Open champion in 2023, became the third man to achieve the feat on the PGA Tour, with two aces at The Barclays in 2015, and last year Frank Bensel Jr made back-to-back holes-in-one during the second round of the US Senior Open in Rhode Island.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WUKA65YUK5CPTCZO3HY65R57EU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I hit a flush seven-iron on the second and I didn’t realise it had gone in until down the bottom they cheered,” Whitnell, who took 11 years to earn a full DP World Tour card after turning professional in 2009, said in his post-round interview. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HOFNYUMMVJCHBBATS6AP7A3ZSI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s a weird feeling. Obviously the adrenaline is pumping but you have to focus on your job and I managed to do that today.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AMYAFL5RABEYFPRFVCBOSTFV7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve never had one in tournament play. I’ve had one in practice at Le Golf National in Paris, but to have two in one day is pretty special. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PZSTW2W4UZHDVOYOST3A474U4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ve had everything today: an air shot, two bogeys, a double, three eagles and come out nine-under par so I can’t complain.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Odds of making two holes-in-one in same round estimated to be around 67 million to one"},"display_date":"2025-02-28T15:11:03.495Z","headlines":{"basic":"Dale Whitnell makes two holes-in-one in same round at South African Open","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7MRV57N2EDALSNVW2YP6UZYEQI","auth":{"1":"3dceed1ff1301f5138b0fb79f558ae9900c26124ef1335587e2a777106ebb096"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7MRV57N2EDALSNVW2YP6UZYEQI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/28/dale-whitnell-makes-two-holes-in-one-in-same-round-at-south-african-open/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"LO6PKDFZGNCB3GTCVR4IYBBIOU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":139,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/44f714c7-727b-42d6-945e-534090b554ff/versions/1740735012/media/dab5d1413655ccb993e174b0368e1d02_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/28/solid-start-for-shane-lowry-at-cognizant-classic-as-jake-knapp-shoots-59/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1740733833757},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/shane-lowry/\" target=\"_blank\">Shane Lowry</a> made a solid start to the Cognizant Classic with a five-under-par 66 in unusually low-scoring conditions at PGA National.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UZLMSPBLENG3XHOFWDXKY2LCCI","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802890},"content":"The Jack Nicklaus-designed course in Florida, known for the “Bear Trap” traditionally plays one of the most difficult on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_blank\">PGA Tour</a> all season but gave up a series of low scores on Thursday, including a stunning 12-under-par 59 by Jake Knapp, only the 15th sub-60 score in the tour’s history.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJDXCCHIKZGYTAZIVAH7IIF6UE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802891},"content":"Knapp had written his name into history by the time Lowry started his round, which left the Irishman knowing he had to go birdie hunting. He made a strong start with two birdies in his first three holes and a third at the seventh to turn in 32. Three more birdies followed by the 14th but he will be left disapppointed by his finish of one over for the final four holes. Lowry, who has a good record at PGA National, is tied 16th, seven shots off the lead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2RZEH24L7ZEVJLU7Y75AWEDDO4","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802892},"content":"Séamus Power shot a two-under-par 69 in his opening round to leave him 10 shots off the lead in tied 76th, the Waterford man looking for a high finish to qualify for the Arnold Palmer Invitational.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KVAENULYU5DHTJS46QKPND3XMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802893},"content":"Knapp’s 59 included five birdies in the first five holes, 12 birdies in total without a single bogey. The American hit 12 fairways and 16 greens, birdieing the final hole to seal his place in the record books.","type":"text"},{"_id":"URAZDZPSTBGHHL4WME4SC7VQLY","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802894},"content":"“I knew obviously I had it going really early, but at the same time, that can happen and then it can kind of fizzle out pretty quick,” he said. “I thought I did a good job of just trying to focus on shot by shot and not letting what happened or what could happen affect anything.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZECEYRX25JHYBGRPGZBVYXWCVM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802895},"content":"“Then once I made the long putt on 15, it was like, okay, now this is kind of here.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHXMWATSRJDTXOT3XW2PUEOKTM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802896},"content":"“But at the same time, didn’t let it affect the game plan or anything like that. Tried to hit an aggressive shot into 16, 17 and 18, and just tried to - knew I was hitting it well, so tried to just birdie everything today.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DTLOSZGEARFTVJW5XK7IFZ4YK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1740737802897},"content":"Knapp is four shots ahead of Daniel Berger, Russell Henley and Sami Valimaki, who shot eight-under 63s.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"David Gorman"}},"name":"David Gorman"}]},"description":{"basic":"Offalyman is on five under, while Séamus Power is on two under on the PGA Tour"},"display_date":"2025-02-28T09:25:04.416Z","headlines":{"basic":"Solid start for Shane Lowry at Cognizant Classic as Jake Knapp shoots 59","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"MIRBES2RCSHDS3OHDI7AMUBTBI","auth":{"1":"81fd1333af4d12b1a9e657652cef5d45a32a2e0f0aa08a0b54d2159832c22b45"},"focal_point":{"x":1495,"y":332},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MIRBES2RCSHDS3OHDI7AMUBTBI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/28/solid-start-for-shane-lowry-at-cognizant-classic-as-jake-knapp-shoots-59/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"I3QDFFZ5NBACLOWSF2MQMTCHIY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":330,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/8e72c081-3134-4215-88d8-eefdd9e397fe/versions/1740679683/media/010713fc1afd5f3e2bfdc480110bd09d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/28/selecting-the-correct-golf-ball-can-help-develop-your-game/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The advancements in golf balls, regardless of manufacturer, is an ongoing work. Year after year even the most popular brands – for instance the Titleist Pro V1 is 25 years old this year – seek improvements that enable the nearly €4 billion global golf ball market to satisfy one and all, from elite professionals to high handicappers who, admittedly, make up the larger slice (no pun intended!) of sales.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6ANPWP2C7BAANIS3RYVWJ6QKCA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Most of us are happy to survive 18 holes of a round with the same ball, although the number of tee shots I’ve pushed right into the trees off the first hole at Roganstown down the years would provide any search party with a healthy return.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DC2ZCPN7QBFAXPPORJCXXDH6OE","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, there is one ball that I have managed to keep safe and sound primarily because it has been put away unused. It is a TaylorMade TP5 which, rather unfortunately, cracked into my head near the ninth green of The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale in 2017. The player who hit the approach shot was Dustin Johnson, the world number one at the time, who – whether thankful that my interaction had stopped the ball from finishing in a bush or, more genuinely, was just happy that no serious injury was done – later signed it and inquired of my wellbeing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJNLDNJ4VFDJDJSSONZHUWFWEM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"Z2CN7TVNPVB6PHX5HSXZSNRMAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Anyway, that TaylorMade TP5 was the first edition of what has proven to be a big seller for the company and which was used by Rory McIlroy in his most recent PGA Tour win in the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, the Northern Irish man switching to it for its softer feel in preference to the TaylorMade TP5x, the company’s newest variation of the ball.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X4VIMSPETNDJNK6LJKKFDJ6UNI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of course, the golf ball has evolved through the years. From the original wooden balls to leather featherie, on to guttie and rubber and onwards to the modern resin and polyurethane balls which must meet the criteria set by the two governing bodies, the Royal and Ancient and the United States Golf Association who work together for a common consensus so that the balls perform within the specified mass, diameter, velocity, distance and symmetry limits.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DAXHBHXNTRGB7HJUOU467ST7PA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The majority of tour players, men and women, use Titleist which is the dominant player and manufacturer of the iconic Pro V1. It is estimated up to 70 per cent of players in any given tournament are using the ball.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IZQDPWV4VNDX3PY3QCQWF3SFAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mike Madson, Titleist VP of golf ball R&D, described how – even with the success of the Pro V1 since its inception – it continues to be further improved. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"WKXURZJI5RET3OIJG2EK6H4SZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’re always trying to improve the golf ball in some way, and it’s all driven by golfer feedback. We start by talking with the best players in the world, who help us define what better is for both Pro V1 and Pro V1x. The goal is to help golfers score better and to do that we’re going to use every tool we have,” said Madson.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BPYQLUUA5ZEBDEJ34VCDDVN7WU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Not every leading player plays Titleist, of course. McIlroy plays TaylorMade, Shane Lowry plays the Srixon Z-Star XV, Tiger Woods, when he plays, remains a Bridgestone man. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HUHKCUIH25AHVELSTSZPWWJZPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Tiger has been playing our balls for almost 20 years and he has renewed that commitment for another three years,” said David Vogrin, marketing director at Bridgestone Golf who has introduced the Bridgestone E12 series. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"5LWQNV4SBZCZHAL4IWOSXD5OKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He is the greatest player ever and it is great endorsement of our brand and our products,” added Vogrin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ITO7KLA4UJBNFNNCH42TVQMWS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"There is a wide range of golf balls, even within the various manufacturers. It doesn’t make sense, in truth, for high handicappers to be forking out for the Pro V1, for example, if the water and other hazards act like magnets, which is the reason the more economical Titleist TruFeel is a popular option in the market.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V4AHAT2OMFA5XOZG6XKJC6UP24","additional_properties":{},"content":"And, in terms of punching above its weight, and taking on the might of the international brands, Seed golf balls – which are based at the Carlow Institute of Technology campus – have been developed, with a price structure for an online presence delivering quality, affordable balls that has enabled it grow year after year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WL7WM5V3PRHZ3KR23TM2I3BQV4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Most golf retail outlets also have second-hand balls, or lake balls, which are greatly discounted. And likely to include some of our lost balls!","type":"text"},{"_id":"5ORESEYDPJHH3NP6ECACYQKRTM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_green\">Top five golf balls for 2025</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"XDJBHEGOTJDI7CWJWC2QD2F44Q","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"QWS24CUZ5BE2DMHMEODYYEZTHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Titleist ProV1 25</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"U3S4DY6A7VGF5MQQW2FM7GCPLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended Price:</b> €59.99 per dozen","type":"text"},{"_id":"YIYI6C6VFJDCXN5263XW44RGAM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The latest take on the iconic ball, it is aimed at players looking for “mid-trajectory flight, very low long game spin and maximum short game spin, with softer feel.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"6SADZVKULRDUBOWN4CYHIQKUNY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BYDGOXOFDRFKLIWOFYDBGSBKM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Srixon Z-Star Diamond</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"ETRQNDXDYRC3RETJDKW33SAYHM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended Price</b>: €59.99 per dozen ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PQESINPSKBFZ3L6KAEEZJ4RAJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"This popular premium ball has a “newly formulated core that starts soft in the centre and gradually becomes firm around its edge, giving high-speed players exceptional feel, optimised iron spin, and plenty of ball speed for maximum distance”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7GT5V3LZA5A2XAP3EAZF6VS3JA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"GQB4JX56YVDOXKAVN6TBIFLRMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Seed 0-1</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"H4U5N3AT25DUJNYE7XY5QNH5NA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended price:</b> €35 per dozen","type":"text"},{"_id":"527LO6SLRZDAXKTX5GTY6C5N4U","additional_properties":{},"content":"The third edition of the ball comes with a newly developed ultra-thin urethane cover, providing “enhanced overall performance by improving ball speed, increase in distance through the bag and an improved softer feel for more responsiveness off the club”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RZ6RUUCHTJCUBB7KUONFQX7IME","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"LTY2SJJVOJEO5BRPD5CSVZKTXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>TaylorMade TP5x</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"JZMMNKV2PNDAHMAWVUDN5IPR6A","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended price:</b> €58 per dozen","type":"text"},{"_id":"XYULDZXDWNBPZIPN6C4Z7RCSXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The hint is in the digit 5: this is a five-layer golf ball which “promotes a fast launch, maximum carry distances and a steep angle of descent for extra stopping power”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4EX3GWE4BBEEHCJ3JMOQHYRBQ4","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"V5HNP4VM4ZAI7CB5ZPXN3VZCBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Callaway Chrome Tour X</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"BOV7KLHXVBGTFCIENE36HL62RA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Recommended price: </b>€64.95","type":"text"},{"_id":"SB4THYZBJNCL3JR64YN7RI54H4","additional_properties":{},"content":"A popular premier ball, the ball features a triple track to aid putting accuracy while the Callaway “hyper-fast core ... is engineered for the best players who want maximum ball speed and distance, especially off the driver”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2HVIMSAEEBB3TMJUQ3CZ3NMK5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"FTNH6XXPZBAU3BCRO7LS32JWJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"This intrinsic piece of kit has evolved down the years and is priced right to suit all pockets "},"display_date":"2025-02-28T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"A Pro V1 or TaylorMade like Rory McIlroy? Choosing the right golf ball no matter the ability","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KIH7A2XGYKLQMQTGNEWMD7LHTM","auth":{"1":"7d39e9a3abfd10b2d0cd13ab616c63aee0eefca9b3c1dad5aa1e13fc8be2a565"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KIH7A2XGYKLQMQTGNEWMD7LHTM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/28/selecting-the-correct-golf-ball-can-help-develop-your-game/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"T6XBVSDT6VBNNETQ3UHW2CP3GE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":240,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/b835946c-3ace-4ffc-a87f-077562990557/versions/1740592007/media/87320cd1d6229696b4fc5cf7c1533efb_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/26/cognizant-classic-lowdown-the-purse-the-field-the-course-as-shane-lowry-and-seamus-power-tee-off-on-pga-tour/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011355},"content":"<b>Purse:</b> $9.2 million (€8.7m)/ $1.68m (€1.6m) to the winner.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXFSB2CMPZBV5D2BWPDYZVUMDM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011360},"content":"<b>Where:</b> Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, USA","type":"text"},{"_id":"7AG4DGTADRHNTHXJGSLGA7GIYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011361},"content":"<b>The course:</b> PGA National has five golf courses in the resort with The Champion – 7,167 yards par 71 – originally designed by Tom Fazio but subsequently upgraded by Jack Nicklaus, aka The Golden Bear, who was involved in the redesign of the course which is why the famed late stretch of holes (from the 15th to the 17th) is known as the Bear Trap. The tough stretch starts with the 180 yards par 3 15th which has water down the right and to the rear of the green; the 16th is a dogleg right par 4 with the approach played over a lake to the green; and the 172 yards par 3 17th is again played mostly over water to the green. A few changes have been made to the bunkering systems, with a reduced number of sand traps on the 13th and 16th holes while the 10th hole, increased in yardage to 550 yards, is now a par 5. There is water in play on 15 of the 18 holes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S3SGOCT2V5G73NONQJYL2MHLYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011362},"content":"<b>The field:</b> With next week’s Arnold Palmer Invitational (a signature event) and The Players (the PGA Tour’s flagship tournament) on the horizon, many of the world’s top players have opted to factor in a break from tournament play. There are four players from the world’s top 20 playing – Russell Henley (17), Shane Lowry (18), Sepp Straka (19) and Billy Horschel (20) – who each have great track records on the course that Jack built. Austin Eckroat is the defending champion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M7JVH2DOXZAUTLX5SJMIW7AR5M","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011364},"content":"<b>Irish in the field:</b> Shane Lowry was hard done by in 2023 when a squall on the final hole in the final round proved costly as he finished second to Sepp Straka and he contended again last year, when finishing tied-fourth. For his latest appearance, and with the chance to sleep in his own bed, Lowry has been grouped with Gary Woodland and Min Woo Lee (off the 1st, at 5.40pm Irish time). Lee has Lowry’s former caddie Brian Martin on the bag. Séamus Power is not yet exempt into next week’s API at Bay Hill and needs a big week to gatecrash that party through the AON Swing 5. Power is in a group with Kurt Kitayama and Brandt Snedeker (off the 10th, at 5.29pm).","type":"text"},{"_id":"GY47RBYWLJG77K3J6IY7ISE7MU","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011366},"content":"<b>Quote-Unquote:</b> “At the end of the day, I’m fighting. The last thing I’m going to let this do is let this thing in my head stop my dreams, and that’s why I fight every day. I want to be there for my kids and my family, but I want to chase my dreams, too. I’ve got a lot of dreams out here. I’m starting to understand what I need to do every day to function in life, but the things I’m doing to help with my brain are also helping me play golf, and I’m knocking on the door. I know my game is close. It’s coming, and I’m going to keep knocking on that door until I bust through, and then we’ll see what happens” – <b>Gary Woodland</b>, who is currently 73rd on the FedEx Cup standings, on his recovery from surgery for a brain tumour and his goal to win again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IATNGAMLV5FXLEAJZLWZS7XBIM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011368},"content":"<b>Betting:</b> Local knowledge and a good track record are worth their weight in gold around PGA National and Shane Lowry, with top-5s on each on his last three appearances, is the market leader at odds of 18-1 ahead of former champions Daniel Berger (20-1), Sungjae Im (22-1), Russell Henley (25-1) and Sepp Straka (25-1). Lowry has shown good form this season (highlighted by a runner-up finish to Rory McIlroy in the Pebble Beach pro-am) and should again contend on one of his favourite tour stops, further down, there is some each-way value to be found with Denny McCarthy rated a 33-1 chance and defending champion Austin Eckroat priced at 50s.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOXPLIKYVZH2BOGFQFBERBLV6Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1740590011370},"content":"<b>On TV:</b> Live coverage from 4pm on Sky Sports Golf.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Shane Lowry’s former caddie Brian Martin is on the bag of playing partner Min Woo Lee this week"},"display_date":"2025-02-26T17:37:38.485Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cognizant Classic lowdown: The purse, the field, the course as Shane Lowry and Séamus Power tee off on PGA Tour","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"HVJYKALD64YQ7GOULAZO2XHZLM","auth":{"1":"06bdf6a43722958858dc6c692a9ec2e5ec62838c992f440509d520563d072438"},"focal_point":{"x":1282,"y":674},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/HVJYKALD64YQ7GOULAZO2XHZLM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/26/cognizant-classic-lowdown-the-purse-the-field-the-course-as-shane-lowry-and-seamus-power-tee-off-on-pga-tour/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"XAWQCJKQAZCUVHPMD64F7WDP4I","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":174,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/c65d8c8d-4a61-48a3-9688-13c90b64e2ee/versions/1740129887/media/46d238c87a7ded60623b6f1d8c04f47d_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/21/donald-trump-and-tiger-woods-hold-interesting-discussions-on-golfs-rift/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump/\">Donald Trump</a>’s involvement in professional golf’s peace talks has ramped up further, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods/\">Tiger Woods</a> among those afforded an audience with the US president at the White House on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D4B7K6SNHNFEPL4HU3GWRMK72Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods joined the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour/\">PGA Tour</a> commissioner, Jay Monahan, fellow board member Adam Scott and representatives of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund in a meeting hosted by Trump amid increasing hopes the fractured sport can unite over the coming months. Key sticking points were expected to surround the precise role for Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the PIF’s governor, in golf’s new world and where the Saudi-established <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series/\">LIV Tour</a> sits on the sport’s schedule.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XIMA2SQXEVBMLNJ3U5OR6PLIBU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Trump introduced Woods at the White House after the meeting in a reception marking Black History Month, saying they had “interesting discussions” about the future of the game.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EABJ3VJHKVGP7M4DLPKYIEBZHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"LIV’s formation in 2022 created divisions in elite golf that are yet to heal. Players such as Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau swapped the PGA Tour for LIV with no apparent hope of return. If Trump can accelerate a deal – and he believes he can – a pathway would be established for those golfers to play in PGA Tour events once again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"A62NCGEUTNBCTDJ3RICHIBSE3Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"Equally intriguing is where the PGA Tour, LIV and the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dp-world-tour/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dp-world-tour/\">DP World Tour</a> all sit in what ideally would be a global golf schedule. The PGA Tour declined to comment on the White House meeting when approached by the Guardian on Thursday, but Monahan later confirmed the “constructive working session” with Trump and Al-Rumayyan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JPLPAUTQMVC7VPOY4AKQAMYJEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Thanks to the leadership of President Trump, we have initiated a discussion about the reunification of golf,” Monahan said in a statement. “We are committed to moving as quickly as possible and will share additional details as appropriate.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W4KKPIVZQBBO5AAPVPUCXNMVIE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We share a passion for the game and the importance of reunification. Most importantly, we all want the best players in the world playing together more often and are committed to doing all we can to deliver that outcome for our fans.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q4GP5CKD2BAX7GPYCXKYRSORXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Trump holds a significant role not only because of his love for golf but because of the influence he can exert on the US Department of Justice, which under Joe Biden’s presidency was seen as a potential stumbling block to the PGA Tour and Saudis forming an alliance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FHWWQFGUBJFPLPI4LUW7TYWXNU","additional_properties":{},"content":"In practical terms the PIF will seek to invest in PGA Tour Enterprises, a body created in June 2023 when a framework agreement for peace in golf was surprisingly announced. Broader matters of intrigue involve potential increased involvement by Saudi Arabia in US sports franchises.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HK65EJ33XNGTDF3QXHCE52IBFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scott and Monahan also attended the White House in early February. Woods spoke more positively than ever on Sunday about golf’s future. “Things are going to heal quickly,” Woods said. “We’re going to get this game going in the right direction.” ","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZGOJQPSSZFD4ZACEKXHKZKXZMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rory McIlroy had earlier revealed he played golf with Trump in early January. – Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ewan Murray"}]},"description":{"basic":"Former world number one Tiger Woods joined PGA delegation at White House on Thursday"},"display_date":"2025-02-21T09:19:40.625Z","headlines":{"basic":"Donald Trump and Tiger Woods hold ‘interesting discussions’ on golf’s rift","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2RGNICSVGZATRGGLST5OISCZXY","auth":{"1":"56d4e4b10daa5d77147043ee8d7dc69c20fd1edef4bd90154024e4ea41f5df30"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2RGNICSVGZATRGGLST5OISCZXY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/21/donald-trump-and-tiger-woods-hold-interesting-discussions-on-golfs-rift/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"PV3JXA5QCVEUXKKHHEZDICTIMM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":132,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0f3bce66-b2fc-4202-89ed-817cfe2763c9/versions/1740064093/media/73691b41933fe95622408ce0b4c93605_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/20/donald-trump-and-tiger-woods-to-meet-at-white-house-for-talks-on-golfs-future/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\">Donald Trump</a>’s involvement in professional golf’s peace talks have ramped up further, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/tiger-woods\">Tiger Woods</a> among those due to be afforded an audience with the US president at the White House on Thursday afternoon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFEJ6J6ZAZFZXE2D6W34XKTYDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Woods is expected to join the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\">PGA Tour</a> commissioner Jay Monahan, fellow board member Adam Scott and representatives of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund in a meeting hosted by Trump amid increasing hopes the fractured sport can unite over the coming months. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"RO2V27RCH5F5ZHIGIYXKQ6DF5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Key sticking points surround the precise role for Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the PIF’s governor, in golf’s new world and where the Saudi-established <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series\">LIV Tour</a> sits on the sport’s schedule.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LZKPJSNPBNE2JPLMAI2WRG2QMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"LIV’s formation in 2022 created divisions in elite golf that are yet to heal. Players such as Brooks Koepka, Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson and Bryson DeChambeau swapped the PGA Tour for LIV with no apparent hope of return. If Trump can accelerate a deal – and he believes he can – a pathway would be established for those golfers to play in PGA Tour events once again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4FTWMD5IEREETGI3NOJMAOPKUU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Equally intriguing is where the PGA Tour, LIV and the DP World Tour all sit in what ideally would be a global golf schedule. The PGA Tour declined to comment on the White House meeting when approached on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4QX3FQN6FGXDCWGJQL6J2OUIU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Trump holds a significant role not only because of his love for golf but because of influence he can exert on the US Department of Justice, which under Joe Biden’s presidency was seen as a potential stumbling block to the PGA Tour and Saudis forming alliance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJSZ66GDSFEG7PT4XZYAG2C74E","additional_properties":{},"content":"In practical terms the PIF will seek to invest in PGA Tour Enterprises, a body created in June 2023 when a framework agreement for peace in golf was surprisingly announced. Broader matters of intrigue involve potential increased involvement by Saudi Arabia in US sports franchises.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OVWTED6XBNDU5J3XIBTIU7ZPDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Scott and Monahan also attended the White House in early February. Woods spoke more positively than ever on Sunday about golf’s future. “Things are going to heal quickly,” Woods said. “We’re going to get this game going in the right direction.” <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> had earlier revealed he played golf with Trump in early January. – Guardian","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Ewan Murray"}]},"description":{"basic":"Woods to join PGA delegation on Thursday for meeting where LIV representatives will be present"},"display_date":"2025-02-20T15:02:59.372Z","headlines":{"basic":"Donald Trump and Tiger Woods to meet at White House for talks on golf’s future","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KKIMXTVBBYEABDLMRIUO2YMWXI","auth":{"1":"f5d95d4ec8467b12dca08e01d08fde55c120719becc60fec8479a10a0d3ea140"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KKIMXTVBBYEABDLMRIUO2YMWXI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/20/donald-trump-and-tiger-woods-to-meet-at-white-house-for-talks-on-golfs-future/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"LD2IJRAO5RF7FG5IUAR4URD4YU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":385,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/0febc799-0764-4b81-a09d-311bb746e23a/versions/1739987502/media/4aa8aee2438ac9ac7fc79f369eaec445_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/19/can-donald-trump-really-swing-a-deal-and-reunite-golf/","content_elements":[{"_id":"MOUDKTKR6NFM7BO563G7EQXPH4","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153797},"content":"The <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/pga-tour\">PGA Tour</a> and Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund are racing to reshape their plans to combine their rival golf circuits, emboldened by US president <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/donald-trump\">Donald Trump</a>’s eagerness to play peacemaker for a fractured sport, according to four people familiar with the matter.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OIAWSOMGZRAL3EBWWHGLZC7Z2A","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153798},"content":"Since the start of secret talks in April 2023, PGA Tour executives and their Saudi counterparts have been weighing how they could somehow blend the premier American golf circuit with the Saudis’ <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/liv-golf-invitational-series\">LIV Golf</a> operation. But negotiators have struggled to design a deal that would satisfy regulators along with players, investors and executives.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QF2BYJB6DNFIFLUJ2ALMGZBOT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153799},"content":"Trump’s return to Washington has offered a new opening: After an Oval Office meeting this month that ethics experts have said tested the bounds of propriety, the two sides are considering options that might have stalled during Joe Biden’s presidency but that the Trump administration’s antitrust enforcers could offer a friendlier glance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QCY732KS3VBXZF4UDVB3D24MZA","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153800},"content":"The details of any prospective agreement, including LIV’s fate, remain in flux. In general, regulators would see any transaction that led to the dissolution of one of the leagues as anticompetitive; under Trump, though, antitrust regulators could take a more relaxed view.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y6OIMD7QE5ANNCWZB6SKPCLO7Y","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153801},"content":"The two sides are looking beyond a simple cash transaction, though it is unclear how exactly the deal would be structured. PGA Tour commissioner Jay Monahan has said they are looking at a “reunification” but there are many complicating factors, including how to value both ventures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBLIRABA5JFXZABHDIZHC5S76M","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153802},"content":"There is also the matter of how to handle any deal alongside a separate $1.5 billion investment in the PGA Tour by a band of American sports magnates.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QL3QJWSOF5DJZKXBOKV6Q44YNM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The people familiar with the deal talks spoke on the condition of anonymity because the negotiations are confidential. The White House did not respond to a request for comment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"C5J3H47NTJATNF2SBU5SQGGZSU","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153804},"content":"Before Trump returned to power on January 20th, Biden’s Justice Department had been reviewing term sheets that called for the Saudis to invest $1.5 billion in a new commercial arm created by the PGA Tour. Regulators sat for months poring over reams of documents, but talks were at an effective standstill.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R67JLIXIWZBP3LMXKD5KK26WOU","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"33IVQ2UHR5BX3NM3PZABRPWNHE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153806},"content":"The chance now to explore potentially cosier terms is a remarkable turnabout and underscores how the legal and political realities of deal-making can quickly change under Trump, especially when he acts as mediator.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RHPDIMGK75HADB4MPNN72V77O4","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153807},"content":"The Saudi-backed LIV league roared into the golf world in 2022 with huge contracts for established stars and a shorter, livelier tournament format that challenged the PGA Tour. But it effectively split the stars of the golf world across two circuits, fracturing the audience and weakening the business prospects for both leagues. The Saudi wealth fund is valued at about $925 billion, but its golf operation has bled money for years, even as LIV sought to cut a swaggering public profile.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FRTXVNDMWVC3ZHTU5GKQDW4XXU","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153809},"content":"In an Oval Office meeting two weeks ago, Trump met with Monahan and spoke by telephone with Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the Saudi wealth fund’s governor.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E2R63UMMA5DOZMCVBOX4QKMBJQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153810},"content":"Trump’s lifelong love of the sport and his family’s ownership in more than a dozen golf properties around the world, including Doonbeg in Co Clare, suggest his involvement could raise conflicts of interest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"53NCUSE3QRC6ZI2VWZMNWGQVXA","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153811},"content":"The PGA Tour has not held a tournament for its flagship circuit at a Trump property since 2016, and Trump has been especially close to LIV and its power brokers. His company’s courses have hosted LIV tournaments, and another is planned for Trump National Doral, near Miami, in April. Trump has often appeared at LIV events.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQGV276PDRAKFFXPFVFBWW5ZXI","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153812},"content":"Al-Rumayyan and Trump are both expected to attend a meeting of investors and executives hosted by the Saudi wealth fund in Miami Beach this week. It is not clear whether they will try to complete a golf deal at the conference, which is about far more than sports. But Tiger Woods, the greatest player of his generation, sounded a broadly optimistic note over the weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6KNWUW3FUBCLTPPFVC7EHDDEJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153813},"content":"“We’re going to get this game going in the right direction,” Woods, a member of the PGA Tour’s board, told CBS on Sunday. “It’s been heading in the wrong direction for a number of years, and the fans want all of us to play together, all the top players playing together, and we’re going to make that happen.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"UGP7NHR2M5CHPN4AUHARLTT6GE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153814},"content":"Woods also said another meeting with Trump was “coming up”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZBXITHRKEVGA3KNWBLQBXG6MWQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153815},"content":"The clock on the Justice Department’s review of the original agreement expired this month, according to two of the people familiar with the talks. Ordinarily, that would have meant the parties could just proceed with the agreement.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z4YCQSI7MNF7VBMHY66ROSNIHI","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153816},"content":"Instead, they have turned toward the possibility of better options.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7BGQPM7I4RHKXGMLZ5VE6XMMKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153817},"content":"Even the possibility that golf’s turmoil could end with an antitrust whimper, rather than a regulatory thunderclap, shows how much the environment has shifted over the past two years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLALJWWFMBBDDBP2HTUUJFRRMQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153818},"content":"In 2023, LIV officials encouraged a federal inquiry into professional golf, arguing that the PGA Tour’s efforts to stem defections to other leagues threatened the labour market’s integrity. Investigators examined phones and interviewed LIV players, including Bryson DeChambeau and Phil Mickelson, as they studied the tight-knit structures of men’s professional golf.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KQOBGEYUMVFLZE2ZSFPYN2VNNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153819},"content":"Then came the surprise agreement between the Saudis and the tour to pursue a joint venture. Monahan stunned observers the day it was announced when he publicly declared that a deal could “take the competitor off of the board”, a comment that antitrust experts saw as a flagrant red flag. The Justice Department pressured the two sides to abandon the no-poach clause they had included in their preliminary accord.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SV7N4V6EEJH37D343YZAK7LRTE","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153820},"content":"The PGA Tour’s television ratings have declined sharply, and Monahan told reporters last week in California that people wanted to see the world’s top players competing regularly against one another again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DULPZOHWZDEDBTTDB2JUHFPRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153821},"content":"Asked whether the talks could lead to the end of LIV, Monahan did not answer directly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ML4NGLTFI5AP7LGGI6OIQVJ774","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153822},"content":"“What it means is the reunification of the game, which is what we have been and are focused on,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W42AYOO2XZA5JOYGZYKJPT7TSI","additional_properties":{"_id":1739984153823},"content":"Monahan added that he could “certainly see a day where we’re adding Trump venues to our schedule.” – This article originally appeared in the <a href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/18/business/dealbook/pga-tour-liv-golf-saudi-deal-trump.html\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/18/business/dealbook/pga-tour-liv-golf-saudi-deal-trump.html\">New York Times</a>.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"name":"Lauren Hirsch"},{"name":"Alan Blinder"}]},"description":{"basic":"PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund seek friendlier deal terms under new president"},"display_date":"2025-02-19T17:23:57.824Z","headlines":{"basic":"Can Donald Trump really swing a deal and reunite golf? ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OCPTDS76C5AGNMP4PSBOOYAPFQ","auth":{"1":"590e83b72cbaa7e6a934742f8315ca411216985a90122233972e25b3989a50f5"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OCPTDS76C5AGNMP4PSBOOYAPFQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Golf"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/19/can-donald-trump-really-swing-a-deal-and-reunite-golf/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/golf","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Golf"}}}},{"_id":"ATK73F4EIFBWLEQ5O5JEKZ4XGQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":156,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/8241728f-0677-4749-b5e0-be6ef3cf8c5f/versions/1739975494/media/8dcc49cda5a98753dab132a799ff16c9_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/golf/2025/02/19/mexico-open-lowdown-course-guide-prize-money-irish-in-action-betting-and-tv-times/","content_elements":[{"_id":"63ANB2RR3VAQJHGAKPN2SUU23M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Purse:</b> $7 million (€6.7 million)/$1.26 million (€1.2 million) to the winner","type":"text"},{"_id":"NHWDJSBIL5HVVK7MNBS7TXQNXY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Where:</b> Vallarta, Mexico","type":"text"},{"_id":"YD2YNSX7KFAW3C7HSTNHXLL4QY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Course: </b>The Vidanta course – 7,436 yards, par 71 – is a set in a picturesque setting along the meandering Ameca river with views of the Sierra Madre Occidental mountain range on every hole. The resort course first opened in 2015 and features large landing areas and also large greens, which are protected by deep bunkering. The back nine’s layout features three Par 3s, three Par 4s and three Par 5s. Jon Rahm set the course record 61 in 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2LTYRMVZYRHFLLDHZTNAZ6DHQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Field: </b>Unlike past events at Vidanta World which featured some high-profile names, with Tony Finau among the past champions (2023), this year’s field – one of two counting events, along with next week’s Cognizant Classic, that offers a pathway to the Arnold Palmer Invitational – lacks such star quality. Akshay Bhatia, the world number 30, is the top ranked player in the field, while the Højgaard twins, Rasmus and Nicolai, head the European challenge. Jake Knapp is the defending champion. An interesting sponsor’s exemption is 17-year-old Blades Brown who becomes eligible to join the PGA Tour when he turns 18 in May. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"HHDWRIKIZJFC7PLLJ2YG3BQM6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Irish playing: </b>Pádraig Harrington, who is playing on a sponsor’s invite, is the lone Irishman in the field as he moves across the Atlantic following stints on the DP World Tour (in UAE and Bahrain) and on the Champions Tour in Morocco. Harrington made the cut in the tournament last year, finishing tied-52nd. Harrington is grouped with Nicolai Hojgaard and Michael Kim (off the 1st at 6.32pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"PPNNF5VW7JCMRBNHJCFQFCO34E","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>Betting:</b> This is a wide-open market, with Bhatia installed as the 11-1 favourite ahead of Rasmus Højgaard. However, there are a number of strong each-way prospects given the absence of many of the world’s top players who are keeping their powder dry ahead of the Arnold Palmer Invitational and The Players inside the next month. As such, it is worth looking at Aldrich Potgieter (tied-15th in the Farmers Insurance Open on his most recent start on the PGA Tour this season) who is available at 60-1, while Matteo Manassero, who hasn’t missed a cut since the Spanish Open last September, is on offer at 100-1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZPSZHSXZFGQPLWQCGF5PWLHZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>On TV:</b> On Sky Sports Golf (from 9pm).","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"The PGA Tour heads to Vallarta for this week’s $7m tournament"},"display_date":"2025-02-19T14:26:26.391Z","headlines":{"basic":"Mexico Open lowdown: Course guide, prize money, Irish in action, betting and TV 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Alexander famously blubbed when he had no more worlds to conquer. Emotional incontinence isn’t <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\">Willie Mullins</a>’s style, though, and he shows no sign of loosening his grip on the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival/\">Cheltenham Festival</a> anytime soon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OBTOWWYIFZAN5DBBH7E6CSI75E","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is 30 years since the man who has changed the face of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/national-hunt/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/national-hunt/\">National Hunt</a> <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/\">racing</a> saddled his first winner at the biggest meeting of the year. Tourist Attraction landed the 1995 Supreme Novices Hurdle at 25/1.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YAJKONMEXJDOPKE5YJGPA6WAKE","subtype":"youtube","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"NVCZG3XMWVFD3CQ5GKT5CIF3RU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Her 38-year-old trainer had taken out a license six years before and still juggled training with riding. In 1996 he rode his third Cheltenham winner as a jockey on Wither Or Which. He was a good rider, champion amateur in Ireland six times. But what followed has proved transformational.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XDX7VRNWKFCIPBLPTUP4MR2Z5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"The year before Tourist Attraction, the story of Danoli and Tom Foley captivated racing. A year after it, Imperial Call and his idiosyncratic ex-soldier trainer Fergie Sutherland did the same. Such plucky underdog stories are all but impossible to imagine at Cheltenham any more. The Mullins revolution has dragged the old game into the modern age. Success has bred levels of success that once would have been unthinkable.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ST74IF3WIBBDFMCUOLHCLVMQAI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last year Mullins crashed through the “century” mark of Cheltenham Festival winners. He’s on 103 ahead of next week’s action. In 2022 he had 10 winners in a single week. There isn’t a race of note he hasn’t won at least once. <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/2025/02/01/galopin-des-champs-has-pride-of-place-in-massive-willie-mullins-squad-as-he-pursues-irish-gold-cup-hat-trick/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/racing/2025/02/01/galopin-des-champs-has-pride-of-place-in-massive-willie-mullins-squad-as-he-pursues-irish-gold-cup-hat-trick/\">Galopin Des Champs</a>, the horse labelled his crowning glory, can join Arkle as a triple-Gold Cup winner this Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W44HGAS5ENET3K366KBRUVHEZM","additional_properties":{},"content":"It’s 100 and counting as Willie Mullins continues stunning Cheltenham run","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"BBBHWKAIH5B4VG457IW4O77VTI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Statistically, perhaps the broader impact of that revolution is underlined by him being champion trainer in both Ireland and Britain right now. More than 4,500 winners in Ireland alone is an all-time record here. Echoing broader trends, a concentration of ownership resources into a handful of training yards means that Mullins has become the most super of superpowers.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ATJ6HB5IVJFZXG5D4TAM3J3UOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"To do all this and not generate significant personal animosity in a backbiting business is a dexterous double. Always “William” to his late mother, he is invariably Willie to everyone else. He is an approachable sporting titan. Just as deft a double is how rare it is to get a peek behind the personable exterior and glimpse the driving professional ambition lurking underneath.","type":"text"},{"_id":"J53DR7YEEFDWDN4R7VXIS7HADE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"WMBCVLTYMBDZDMLILBSJITPBYY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Results are the greatest evidence of those understated competitive instincts, and they show no sign of waning. Mullins will be 69 in September. He had big heart surgery in 2019. His son Patrick, the most successful amateur rider of all time, is 35 and an obvious heir apparent. Then again, you’re a long time retired. His English rival Nicky Henderson is 74 and still up for the fight.","type":"text"},{"_id":"62QH4MJKKFH7JD2GP6KRRFVJGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“There are three questions always being asked. Will he ever stop? Will he do a joint license with Patrick? Or will he just keep going?” says a friend who has known Mullins for over 50 years. “I would be inclined to say he’ll keep going. His father did.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"HRIXNGHBERGP7IO5FKWGCYCYVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Paddy Mullins, the patriarch of one of racing’s most accomplished families, officially retired 20 years ago at the age of 86. Declining health at the end meant his youngest son Tom did much of the heavy lifting. They even enjoyed classic success on the flat during that time. The old man’s eldest son has also won a Curragh classic, but stamina is the family foundation.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RWKBBNF56BAFFFNVE2O64OVZ3A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TUF7AEEQGJBAVGYOC5GJUMVWOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"There’s also the reality that the cornerstone of the most successful operation in racing history is ultimately rooted in one man’s eye for a horse. A team of talent scouts and buyers focus on every point-to-point in Ireland and juvenile hurdle in France. All of it, though, ultimately depends on a thumbs up or down from the boss.","type":"text"},{"_id":"36QNSUBI75EOBD5RIHWGS5H2M4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He’s always training off his eye,” Patrick Mullins has said of his father who can have up to 250 horses in his Co Carlow yard at any one time. “He doesn’t have lists. He’s on the gallop every morning looking at the horses. That’s always been impressed upon me, that you have to be looking at them every day to see how they’re handling the training.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JG7RJNPEORD4XKGHZ3JRYJJBEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Having built up an unparalleled system, the idea of retirement any time soon is surely a big-odds outsider. That’s almost as unappealing a prospect for the opposition as facing into the task of trying to beat 70-odd Mullins runners next week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LS3RRVAYRZFVJG2LH57XX4PTYA","subtype":"pullquote","type":"quote"},{"_id":"OW2NQ4VWD5D4PC2P4NUDKJD7ZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Recently retired trainer Michael Hourigan says the sport is almost unrecognisable from 30 years ago when he was ruling the roost with stars such as Dorans Pride and Beef Or Salmon. Much of that is due to the man he knew as a kid when riding a winner for Paddy Mullins 60 years ago. He can’t see why the relentless drive for success should start to slip in his former colleague’s case.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LB54XOGVRZBZXOROETD4FPZO6E","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"KS46VPCKN5GBZFECQQODGE6OY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It would be hard to stop when he’s so successful. It’s all running as a well-timed machine,” says Hourigan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IDM5QBUZYBFU3PMXKL223FYVKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He has great staff, honourable staff, fellahs that would die for him. That’s a great sign of a fellah. He’s very honourable himself. Paul Townend stood in the shadows for years and eventually fell into Ruby’s boots. David Casey is still there too. He doesn’t step outside his own yard looking for jockeys. If you’ve a fellah in the yard, you can have words with him tomorrow but not on the racecourse. It will reward you the next day,” he adds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UYIBDWSRLNGUXNS7WLI6GS3VTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mullins delivers Dublin Racing Festival one-two as shadow boxing with Horse Racing Ireland continues","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"4OYPQ6XZKRFDRIIUVF2J3BIL6E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Reports of Mullins losing his cool are rare, although apparently it can be an impressive sight. Much more recognisable are cool diplomatic skills that have allowed him build up a list of hugely rich owners with the financial clout to buy the raw material on which everything relies.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SJHJJ6AHNG4NMKDF4BU3WDH7I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“You couldn’t have a row with him. But you can get a sort of indifference. At the end of it all, though, he’d shrug the shoulders or hold the hands out like the police ‘OK, that’s your way – this is my way.’ And it’s forgotten. He never holds grudges,” explains his friend, the former Turf Club stipendiary steward, Michael O’Donoghue.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2AAGDZQELNH7RMC4I6GRSISGIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"That capacity famously paid off when Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary removed 60 horses in a dispute over an increase in training fees. Mullins wished O’Leary well, filled the boxes with other eager owners and squashed talk of a decline by accelerating his success rate even more. In 2022, O’Leary sheepishly returned to the fold. Mullins contented himself by just saying – “We had a difference of opinion.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"J6S5BMHK55G5VKTPUCPCJCFWRE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"CT7PPUKJ2FB5VNWKJMIHHO6BEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fighting your corner with Mullins on racing is a long shot at the best of times, but it’s also notable the ease with which he switches from professional to personal. Switching off includes a night out with friends at his local hostelry in Leighlinbridge. The old wooden jockeys board with his name on it, that used to be displayed at race meetings, hangs over his favourite table.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3SW3NTKRWZDJ7D4QXF4OKYWP6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He doesn’t talk much about horses when he goes out. There would be no big interrogation about what you’re running tomorrow, or last winner he had. A night out with him is not a racing night. He can talk about anything – the economy, politics, travel, different countries. He has a wide knowledge and he’s very good on other sports, particularly rugby. He’s also very good on history. He loves history,” O’Donoghue says.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WHMZSBQHE5HC7EZ2HXE7FULCBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Since Mullins is rewriting racing’s record books with every passing year, an appreciation for the historical context involved might spur him on even more.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"Champion trainer has transformed the face of National Hunt racing and begins Cheltenham next week on 103 festival victories "},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Will Willie Mullins, with nothing left to prove, bow out after Cheltenham? Don’t bet on it","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"KF2HABDKUNDV5BVFYYGRWGKXHM","auth":{"1":"11cb29f3b6e087018ca71956e9b7c0f629c8b9ac7f8dbf4f60327d17bcb81d4c"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/KF2HABDKUNDV5BVFYYGRWGKXHM.jpg"}},"subtype":"feature","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/08/will-willie-mullins-with-nothing-left-to-prove-bow-out-after-cheltenham-dont-bet-on-it/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"MTAOXLOSH5BNFJ2JPN6H7HRCEU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":324,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/9a009df5-e88b-4556-a044-382d1344d94e/versions/1741257303/media/374655358d38709d867caf0d213c65b1_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/08/my-betting-policy-these-days-is-to-slavishly-follow-willie-mullins-ivan-yates/","content_elements":[{"_id":"T6RZ6H4OUFAJJL6TXJNPVYHPTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Jimmy Barry Murphy (Cork All Ireland winner)</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"KXFSD6ZB7JASROAXIF3EZBXXCQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BF4ES2QBSRFHXA2ULCMPG73P3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>1. Bet of the Meeting –</b> “Dinoblue in the Mares Chase. I think she’ll stay the 2½-mile trip fine. I was impressed with her at Naas, the way she came up the inside there which isn’t easy.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"IO3ZS4L7ONAV5CYS5PHT5ZH3ME","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>2. Lay of the Meeting –</b> “I’m not convinced about Constitution Hill and I love that Brighterdaysahead is taking him on. If Lossiemouth goes as well, it will be a wonderful race.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"KHGYLJ66K5ESLBF534UIZOQANE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>3. Number of Irish Winners – </b>“I’d say 16 of the 28. There are some really good English horses there this time.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RMW4KXYLQVFRBD674NZ2ZHFIJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>4. Number of </b><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\"><b>Willie Mullins</b></a><b> Winners – </b>“He has great chances in the Novice Hurdles, in the Gold Cup too, Majborough looks a certainty; I’d say seven.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"5XDPLCA4AFGHHHCWTXF7VWCAAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>5. Gold Cup Winner –</b> “You couldn’t look beyond Galopin Des Champs.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZXDQE4ARXZHQ5FIDJWGFJSK5TM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<b>6. Champion Hurdle Winner – </b>“I love that Jack Kennedy is back to ride Brighterdaysahead. It would be great to see him win after all the injuries he’s had. And I think she must have a great chance.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"55SZ56JESFAO5OS62H7SA5N52M","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\"><b>Ivan Yates (Broadcaster)</b></mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"ZIEIF5FUIJPBZBUGZMJDSHEVBQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"SQSTACCFCFFYPJIAVKNFVYBBEU","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting - </b>My betting policy these days is to slavishly follow Willie Mullins. It works more than it doesn’t, particularly on the big days. So Majborough and Ballyburn for me. And I’m keener on Ballyburn.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5W4C62UNSRH4LJLY6C5ZCQWMZA","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting –</b> Il Est Francais in the Ryanair. He has burst blood vessels before, and I don’t like him. An Irish horse will beat The New Lion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LNQELIQM5JBUDBNP2GKGKBD3LY","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners –</b> I’m going for 19 Irish winners.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NO4732FINES7CURBEFT4PKUGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of </b><a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\"><b>Willie Mullins</b></a><b> Winners – </b>I’m oscillating between seven or eight for Willie. But a minimum of seven.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XKQEGD7POFCA5C3D5IB3ENTN3Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner –</b> Can’t see beyond Galopin Des Champs. It’s his to lose. Ground’s not a problem and Paul Townend can lead or hold him up.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X6CSGBAUA5CPJGSQSN36WXXYQY","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champions Hurdle Winner -</b> Brighterdaysahead at Christmas was deceptive. The fact State Man couldn’t beat Winter Fog for second says to me he was at least a stone below his best. She’s almost a lay for me. Constitution Hill to prove himself one of the greats.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VLE3WYMOOREYHGFA4BVAWRBLWU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Paddy Power (Bookmaker)</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"2QE6UULLVZEHBGSJS4NKV6FYZY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"XFHYZ3VKARHGTEZ45YSTJFIYGA","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting - </b>Copacabana in the Bumper. I loved the attitude he showed winning at Navan. He should devour the hill.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ARGSB45PENBOXNH23YKQQPP4NU","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting -</b> Jade De Grugy in the Mares. She disappointed at Cheltenham last year and there are a few good mares in this.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZMATMO6RBNBM7PLX5OLMZIHWJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners -</b> We’ve had 18 the last three years but the tide may be beginning to turn, and Nicky Henderson’s horses weren’t right last year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EZG77DGBV5ADVENYO5OGJGP6YE","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of Willie Mullins Winners -</b> By my reckoning there will be slightly less Irish winners to go around, and he can’t train them all, can he?","type":"text"},{"_id":"HAD5R5JBIJEY7EUEOTLUKZ4A2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner</b> - Something needs to go wrong for Galopin Des Champs not to make it three on the trot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PT3LBTWFCBBHDGRTHVSF5B3F5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champions Hurdle Winner -</b> Brighterdaysahead. I’m hoping her Leopardstown romp was no fluke. It’s a cracker of a race. I’d love to see all the big guns in contention turning for home.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNMURT632JCVRC2DBOOHIBGCOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/martin-heydon/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/martin-heydon/\"><mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Martin Heydon</mark></a><mark class=\"hl_yellow\"> (Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine)</mark>","type":"text"},{"_id":"AIBYW6V54CFCLMAR3Z6S6W5S2A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"QL44HSFMZ5AFZF5SL75UOPF44E","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting -</b> Kopek Des Bordes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DVN4J4OBSRHBNDCVLJOZTOO4A4","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting -</b> Nothing in particular.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OJN7BT3JEBCBBHVUR54QJ4HJXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners -</b> 14 Irish winners this time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MTW55REJKVEHVNYWBVXPDNKTA4","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of Willie Mullins Winners -</b> Eight for Willie.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KW63KXGFFZC63CD45GDISF6O3A","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner -</b> Galopin Des Champs.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFLOJSDGZRH73AZ6CZ6EBXQRHY","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champions Hurdle Winner -</b> Can’t get away from Constitution Hill.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WJ4HQEWDSZGSDFIDBALU3E3GCU","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Darragh Ó Sé (Kerry All-Ireland winner)</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"RFIYGZFJGBBRHMSE4LOP4DFXZQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"2JKH74YFG5A4FGOCKF3ZVQLA7A","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting -</b> Sixandahalf in the Mares Novice. She was high class on the flat and jumped brilliantly on her jumps start.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WBQY45EJ5RALTOR4HLEG2J73GI","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting -</b> Constitution Hill beat an under-performing Lossiemouth at Kempton. He’ll have to better than ever to win and I have my doubts.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5BCH5MA66ZFOHEHBNUWSGEDKJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners -</b> 19ish. We’re blessed with the trainers we have here.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TEGQNBBUIFHWRBLC6O73KMZX6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of Willie Mullins Winners -</b> Willie has an army so 10 or so.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NQMWSFAV2JB5NHRKYN6XUTXQ6I","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner -</b> Galopin has it at his mercy. He’s no bet but it’s a race to watch and enjoy.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WVQBDWKKRBH2PE6P6LJ6TDNUJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champions Hurdle Winner -</b> If Brighterdaysahead produces her Leopardstown run at Christmas, she’ll win, and the parade ring will be buzzing!","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOYAPWMZVVGZFPCNMME7ICW7TE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<mark class=\"hl_yellow\">Nicky English (Tipperary All Ireland Winner)</mark>","type":"header"},{"_id":"WH5EDGR7PZGV3CCNNAJQY7A7UY","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"AXM4ZKLE4BGDZMQX2LDOX7Z5L4","additional_properties":{},"content":"1. <b>Bet of the Meeting -</b> Kopek Des Bordes in the Supreme. He was ultra-impressive at Leopardstown.","type":"text"},{"_id":"P6GFPPHBPFEMNN2I3LBBWPBOQI","additional_properties":{},"content":"2. <b>Lay of the Meeting -</b> East India Dock looks short enough in the Triumph considering the Irish horses and Nicky Henderson’s good juveniles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OLQD4WXXBBBFLIYWLJFYMPRSPA","additional_properties":{},"content":"3. <b>Number of Irish Winners -</b> Around the 14 mark. The change in status of some of the races, more handicaps, might suit the English horses more.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NLWNDUA46BE65LLLXJ3LL537XA","additional_properties":{},"content":"4. <b>Number of Willie Mullins Winners -</b> Willie will have the bulk of the Irish winners, say eight.","type":"text"},{"_id":"74SOACEKAVGK3DZZ7GAQLOC7WU","additional_properties":{},"content":"5. <b>Gold Cup Winner -</b> Galopin Des Champs is an outstanding horse and he deserves to win a third Gold Cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UIX3KCBRRBHELMUCFBG3TRQF3M","additional_properties":{},"content":"6. <b>Champion Hurdle Winner -</b> I think Constitution Hill will be back to his best.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FVH7DCFKEBDSBE4I2MWU2FMYT4","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"We asked a range of well-known racing observers for their Cheltenham Festival tips, and several foresee English horses challenging Irish dominance particularly hard this year "},"display_date":"2025-03-08T06:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"‘My betting policy these days is to slavishly follow Willie Mullins’ - Ivan Yates","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"A3ZZDSNNC7CYHFGOUW6AO5X2UA","auth":{"1":"a6f25d252b1d6188292e025a5165ead25861d84e6e37ebfd6ac09bfa97330696"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/A3ZZDSNNC7CYHFGOUW6AO5X2UA.jpg"}},"subtype":"analysis","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/08/my-betting-policy-these-days-is-to-slavishly-follow-willie-mullins-ivan-yates/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"56GVQQPZ2FFFTPTE6IMR2KAZYA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":277,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/a25ed68b-9e12-4b05-a5df-63ba50d1cb4c/versions/1741361031/media/5f1bceb54f8174ac869e31a28553a373_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/07/willie-mullins-just-9-4-to-train-more-winners-than-whole-british-team-at-cheltenham/","content_elements":[{"_id":"AXVXNFLXAFCZPCBTM3II46DIPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins\">Willie Mullins</a> is readying a team of up to 80 horses for next week’s <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival\">Cheltenham Festival</a> and the record-breaking trainer is just 9-4 to outscore Britain on his own.","type":"text"},{"_id":"U3S2VJQC6NBBPAZSWOINCBDSEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cross-channel eyes can be forgiven for looking anxiously across the water at the waves of Mullins runners about to hit Prestbury Park ahead of the biggest week of the racing year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YUS64R72EVBAHKOKNKRUY2Q6B4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mullins’s 2024 haul of nine winners equalled the whole home tally and Boylesports go jut 9-4 about the Irishman trumping them this time. He had a record 10 winners in 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GXIS7OWNFVE5VMKEE4EMKWBXOE","additional_properties":{},"content":"That firm reckons Mullins has 13 favourites for the 28 races up for grabs next week, including Galopin Des Champs, who is odds-on to complete a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-gold-cup\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-gold-cup\">Cheltenham Gold Cup</a> hat-trick.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ERCBUOZR65G5RAKZCRSYUCCI6Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mullins wasn’t represented in just one festival contest a year ago and saddled 73 runners in all. It included a massive eight-strong team in the Weathebys Champion Bumper when Jasmin De Vaux notched a landmark 100th festival success. Mullins has 103 festival winners in all.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AWERWW2RFFGRDKPNAHAHTQJFHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ante-post punters are still trying to tease out Mullins’s likely plans for star mare Lossiemouth who has day one options in both the Champion Hurdle and the Mares' Hurdle. Final declarations for Tuesday are on Sunday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RMUVLAWTNZAERFSNH2FGXDTEMY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mullins’s chaser Fact To File hardened to 6-4 favourite for the Ryanair after featuring among a dozen acceptors for the race at Friday’s latest acceptance stage. Fact To File’s alternative is to try his luck against Galopin Des Champs again in the Gold Cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ELXPEURMXZFZZLNZSODJLF6DLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A notable absentee from the Ryanair is Jimmy Mangan’s Spillane’s Tower, and as expected Banbridge’s connections have opted to go down the Gold Cup route. The Mullins team have left both Gaelic Warrior and the former two-mile Champion Chase winer Eneregumene in the mix.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YEC2KPQEW5BQREL2FGY3TXY22I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Teahupoo is a warm favourite to retain his Stayers' Hurdle crown, although up to 19 potential opponents could take him on next week.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2SVIX2TOT5C2HLKZMDRZ7KZL6U","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ground conditions at Cheltenham are largely good to soft after selective watering began at the track on Thursday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S5EFEGFOTNDD7HWHENP3A5NOIY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Mainly yesterday was on the New Course, a little bit on the Old, but mainly on the New, and we’ll continue to monitor conditions and irrigate accordingly,” clerk of the course Jon Pullin reported.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WQMBQFWMOGFT7XD6UKLONDFVTM","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"KSU7V66HNVAZXCDFRTU3PFTMTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We’re largely good to soft. There are one or two areas now that would be on the quicker side of that, so nearer good ground, and there the areas in the next few hours where we’ll have irrigated and hopefully got us back to that good to soft position.","type":"text"},{"_id":"76PQ72SQFBHCNFSXWYSGFTLKFI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Good to soft is where we would like to start, that’s been the position here at the festival now for a number of years, to start a four-day festival on anything quicker comes with its challenges, so we’d like to start on good to soft ground,” he added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WYR7CP2QYJFN5ODYE5J3YSYKOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"A warm weekend weather outlook means watering is set to continue ahead of a largely dry forecast for the week ahead.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BZMD7OPFJRHJ3APIPQ2KXCMOL4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“What we wouldn’t want it to do is go any quicker than good ground, so we’d need to be mindful of that. But looking at the forecast I don’t see that being an issue. We’ve got a very warm weekend coming with temperatures around 16 and 17 degrees on Saturday and Sunday with lots of bright sunshine,” Pullin said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KU5TQRE7XBCEXKFPBTZHJ3TD4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But then it does turn a lot cooler next week and daytime temperatures through the week are seven, eight degrees in the main and we’re now looking at some overnight frosts as well,” Pullin said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CVQMVZV4XJDVDOTEK64XYJTC24","additional_properties":{},"content":"Before all that Mullins has 10 runners left over for this weekend’s action and Batman Girac will do a cross-channel recce on Saturday in Sandown’s Betfair Imperial Cup.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JALP4QINFZERRK7RYXUFKQC6JQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The sponsors are offering a £100,000 bonus (about €120,000) to the winner of Saturday’s contest going on to win any race at Cheltenham. Batman Girac holds a County Hurdle entry at the festival. JJ Slevin takes the mount on the sole Irish challenger.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OKNKSCEKZ5GMLC6XCOIZA4BSPE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Significantly, Mullins’s No 1 jockey Paul Townend has a single weekend ride, the former top-class bumper performer Redemption Day in Sunday’s Naas opener.","type":"text"},{"_id":"57ESKSOKJBBPDJIJ2JKY2KV43E","additional_properties":{},"content":"It leaves Danny Mullins to take over on the Royal Ascot winner Belloccio who goes in the Grade Three Bar One Kingsfurze Hurdle and the Beginners' Chase candidate Olympic Man.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KPYTNJ5Q35CLNDTRAX7Q7ZGD5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"Included in the Kingsfurze is one horse swimming against the cross-channel tide as Olly Murphy’s Pleasington tries his luck in Ireland. Keith Donoghue teams up with the raider who has won his last two starts at Leicester and Lingfield.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M64C3QCALBBC7B4RLBHOEKHYQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sunday’s feature is the €100,000 Leinster National where the last two winners, Hartur D’arc and Espanito Bello, try to win the race again.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MUKF2V57MBDXJHXMVXHNDSVYSY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Fans of Bambino Fever’s festival bumper chance will also be hoping Switch From Diesel delivers a form boost in the finale. She was runner-up in the Grade Two bumper at the Dublin Racing Festival.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"Record-breaking trainer could have up to 80 runners over the four days topped by Gold Cup favourite Galopin Des Champs "},"display_date":"2025-03-07T15:18:43.742Z","headlines":{"basic":"Willie Mullins just 9-4 to train more winners than whole British team at Cheltenham","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"V2GL4JASRBEYBBIQV4ZQA2ETHY","auth":{"1":"5fa1fa45793a7985ed2879c43da349cc75e27b55a299dcf4bcd77fed41d549aa"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/V2GL4JASRBEYBBIQV4ZQA2ETHY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/07/willie-mullins-just-9-4-to-train-more-winners-than-whole-british-team-at-cheltenham/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"AKYQBWSPEVB3RA2C4KPBT467VM","additional_properties":{},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/04/cian-collins-eyes-jazzy-matty-victory-at-cheltenham-festival-in-memory-of-michael-osullivan/","content_elements":[{"_id":"QM5GNOA6LZAQ5H74D7GFLVFMXE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jazzy Matty is already a Cheltenham Festival winner and could now provide Cian Collins with the biggest moment of his training career if thriving again at Prestbury Park in the Johnny Henderson Grand Annual. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GA72KLAF6NBOFLPFUBGCKTSJY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was in the hands of the late Michael O’Sullivan and when trained by Gordon Elliott that Jazzy Matty surged to success in the 2023 Fred Winter, forming the second leg of a memorable first-day double for the young jockey who tragically lost his life recently following a fall at Thurles in February. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"JGUW6QB7CFFVLCTPGJFWYVAQBI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Navan-based Collins is perhaps best known for overseeing the career of the durable mare Effernock Fizz, but acquired Jazzy Matty for €50,000 at the dispersal sale of previous owners Andy and Gemma Brown and now has a new stable star capable of taking him to the big festivals. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"3PJO2EDE5JANPAZUBASLZCLN2I","additional_properties":{},"content":"The six-year-old again showed his liking for the Cotswold undulations when a head second to Gavin Cromwell’s Path d’Oroux over the Grand Annual course and distance. Jazzy Matty is as short as 8-1 with the bookmakers for the day two handicap. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"GGFBMPFH5BHJTAEYUFQXN4CAC4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He’s in great form and I couldn’t be happier with him and hopefully he gets a run in the Grand Annual, it might cut up some more so hopefully we get into it,” said Collins, who is very much a young trainer on the up.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3ZYIMONCEJCVVLEYDB4DYJBBSQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He ran nicely at the course in October and was wrong at the weights that day and he will be a lot better off this time. He loves Cheltenham and has a great record round there. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"AMYFKKQVPBDCPFNL6LVFMIA3SU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It would be unbelievable if he could hit the frame and it’s great to even go there with a horse with a chance like him, hopefully we just get him there in good order on the day and can get a good run out of him.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z2FEPABWU5BU5CPUZRI5ZD6VFM","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the prospect of Jazzy Matty being a fitting winner in O’Sullivan’s memory, Collins added: “It would be very special if he could go there and do that, so we’ve got our fingers crossed”. −AP ","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"The six-year-old is already a proven Festival campaigner having claimed success in the 2023 Fred Winter"},"display_date":"2025-03-04T16:19:58.834Z","headlines":{"basic":"Cian Collins eyes Jazzy Matty victory at Cheltenham Festival in memory of Michael O’Sullivan","native":""},"label":{},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"L5RCN3HTQMIYKPVFFTGPRCBVN4","auth":{"1":"8b51c1563cfa9ea64a64a4333be8cf15bbd2f477a9551afa42a7cb10764820e6"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/L5RCN3HTQMIYKPVFFTGPRCBVN4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/04/cian-collins-eyes-jazzy-matty-victory-at-cheltenham-festival-in-memory-of-michael-osullivan/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"J26GXQBIPJBOLA36U4ZSEI5SHE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":188,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/f7aba11a-b13f-49d4-9147-86c547e69ac3/versions/1741020571/media/2bcd3f2fccf415e9b6cd43657ae418b5_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/03/willie-mullins-keeps-imperial-cup-option-for-batman-girac-and-chance-of-big-money-bonus/","content_elements":[{"_id":"W4Y2XQLNAVGJJI256SWHNSBWXU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Just a single Irish-trained horse has won Sandown’s Betfair Imperial Cup in almost two decades, although <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins\">Willie Mullins</a> could try to change that statistic with Batman Girac on Saturday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TTFPZX5XLNETPL7KBJ65DTGUB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"A faller at the last behind McLaurey at the Dublin Racing Festival, Batman Girac holds a County Hurdle entry at next week’s <a href=\"\" rel=\"\" title=\"\">Cheltenham Festival</a>. However he is also one of eight left in Sandown’s big handicap contest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KUCAHWAO7ZHOVKL6YZZUUQUYEA","additional_properties":{},"content":"A bonus of £100,000 is available for the connections of any horse that wins at Sandown and completes a quick follow-up in any race at Cheltenham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ROWLSPOCQBHVPCIZJNQ2THXP3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Batman Girac is an 8-1 shot with some firms for the Imperial Cup, which was won by Peter Fahey’s Surprise Package in 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SLMDTLDSH5BXZEALETP4DPRY4A","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is a decade since Mullins ran his top-class runner Wicklow Brave in the Imperial Cup. He was pulled up that day but less than a week later landed the County at Cheltenham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZRWFEPKZBZDEJALPO3EYIKUL2Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"The six-figure bonus has been reintroduced this year by the sponsors. In previous guises it was won three times by a trio of horses from the Pipe yard.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6EHIO276ARBPHHJKP2RPUHQLW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Olympian in 1993 went on to land the Coral Cup at Cheltenham, a feat also accomplished by Blowing Wind. David Pipe’s Gaspara doubled up in the Fred Winter Juvenile Hurdle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YWGP6GQYFJC2NN3I56OYXJ5AMM","additional_properties":{},"content":"More recently, the Dan Skelton-trained Langer Dan went close in 2021, following up his Sandown Park success with a second-place finish at Cheltenham six days later.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DOHV7U5APFEKBIPNXTCJQEFGAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"In other news, trainer Brian Duffy has been fined €5,000 by the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board after admitting to not providing accurate information on his 2024 licence renewal application.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6MPYFWECP5FKJFEEO6MLLYNVBM","additional_properties":{},"content":"From a handful of horses at his base near Trim, Co Meath, Duffy trained Magic Chegaga to win the 2022 Galway Mile under Colin Keane.","type":"text"},{"_id":"25IW2ZMFGBHRJNO2A565U3MVRU","additional_properties":{},"content":"A referrals hearing originally held in January heard how in June 2023, the IHRB’s Licensing Department granted Duffy’s request to continue as a licensed trainer while he pursued a job opportunity in France for a temporary period of eight weeks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N6U4TOJ25FEXLA67BOPGJOI4YY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Licensing Department received no further correspondence from Duffy regarding his residency status until September 2024.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZNLNYH7AZJH7NLKMYWP5RGCMMQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the intervening period, Duffy renewed his trainer’s licence in January 2024, listing his Trim address, despite continuing to reside in France. During this time, he had one horse in training in Ireland, who had raced during this period.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2DMG6UKBMRFM5MGVYP7ZCTO2LM","additional_properties":{},"content":"At the hearing, Duffy accepted he was in breach of Rule 145(i) for failing to provide accurate information on his licence renewal application.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CH255RWWAFBKXLOV4LRPJJ6ZYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"His father, Frank Duffy, was an authorised representative for the stable and said that while he oversaw the horse’s daily welfare, all decisions were made by his son.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VPURH5N7HRHRXCJNJDBETDPUZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Having reserved their decision, the referrals committee decided that the accuracy of personal information given by a licensee to a regulator is fundamental to protecting the integrity of the entire system.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BC5JEVS45BBEBANV4HSJFERGE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"They fined Duffy and said he will have to reapply for a trainers’ licence in Ireland. Until that is approved Duffy undertook to not engage in any training in Ireland.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"Horse is also entered in the County Hurdle at next week’s Cheltenham Festival"},"display_date":"2025-03-03T16:44:20.341Z","headlines":{"basic":"Willie Mullins keeps Imperial Cup option for Batman Girac and chance of big-money bonus ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RLFLDKIBGLJWOZW2SKHKTXIEWE","auth":{"1":"80a146dd7946a220f831c8307fb24404319ab6806125dbf29869a044223fff3b"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RLFLDKIBGLJWOZW2SKHKTXIEWE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/03/willie-mullins-keeps-imperial-cup-option-for-batman-girac-and-chance-of-big-money-bonus/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"YOL4OXMFJJBXRG2IK3C7NSQMUU","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":274,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/0b5699d2-1a53-4c30-9134-962749fda7bf/versions/1741018704/media/0cad5fa19f29ef1fe5f838d7c61b97d9_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/03/jack-kennedy-returns-to-action-as-brighterdaysahead-confirmed-for-champion-hurdle/","content_elements":[{"_id":"WY67XOE4RBFHLEBAA4DBDAHMO4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Jack Kennedy returned to action on Monday after over three months out with a broken leg and has the mouthwatering prospect of riding Brighterdaysahead in next week’s Unibet Champion Hurdle to look forward to.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KQ5VL5J4EFAY7KSAL23L3RRBE4","additional_properties":{},"content":"The champion jockey had two rides for Gordon Elliott at Leopardstown, his first since suffering the sixth leg break of his injury-plagued career at Fairyhouse in late November.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NMY24OFAMZD75PPS3VXVSQ5YQQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"He finished third on Arabian Diamond in the opening maiden hurdle while the odds-on Qualimita found Barnahash Primrose too good in another maiden. Both horses were badly hampered by a faller at the third last flight.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L6WHPY4V75G25NN2P63ZQAZHX4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I feel good. The fitness is good and it’s good to be back,” said Kennedy who described Monday’s return as a good starting point. “There’s a couple of entries in Thurles [Thursday] and I’m sure I’ll be at Gowran and Naas over the weekend.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WUGDDPAYBRH3LLBJ52YZK3YJ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m fit enough, but just to get the eye back in and get back into the swing of things is very important. To be going there with a live chance in a Champion Hurdle is very exciting, fingers crossed we’ll go well anyway.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"RGWM4UIJENASFPSQ4QWZN5AC4I","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier, Elliott and Michael O’Leary’s Gigginstown Stud confirmed they would target Brighterdaysahead at taking on Constitution Hill & Co in a <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival\">Cheltenham</a> championship clash rather than the Close Bros Mares' Hurdle on day one of next week’s festival.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4JTMEX2B5ZCG5DVW2FHNHO22QA","additional_properties":{},"content":"As a result, Brighterdaysahead was immediately cut to a general 2-1 second favourite behind the unbeaten English superstar.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6WWXOYDLLFG5XE5WMA3QVGQUW4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Look, it wasn’t really that difficult. It probably would have been the easier race to go for, the Mares', but there’s only one Champion Hurdle,” said Elliott.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SHYSGIO2ZVDLVMHLKTYTLEO32Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We think our mare is in good form. We’ve got the utmost respect for Constitution Hill, State Man and all the rest of the field but we just felt that we had a horse for this race and ought to take our chance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6NSJ7O5YKREWNNVV5GEKFV5X44","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m a big believer in going for races you think you can win, and the mares' race probably always was that. But I suppose the closer you get to the race, when you see what sort of form she’s in, and there’s only one Champion Hurdle, and it’s very hard to come across this type of horse. So we decided we’d give her a chance and we’re really looking forward to it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3OAMQPA3VVEOZPT4SOXFRQ2CPU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“She’s brilliant at home, she’s bouncing. She’s got a good bit of work to do this week, then that will be her.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZSZUODPOWRCVHFL2OKCRBEPZHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Brighterdaysahead has been absent since her spectacular 30-length romp at Leopardstown over Christmas when beating the reigning champion State Man into a distant third, which saw her raised to a career-high official rating of 163.","type":"text"},{"_id":"REQSZ3MRDCWUQ6E5TVIFGSMJ3I","type":"reference"},{"_id":"YGCIZ7UBBRCYVPYLONZPAV7JLE","additional_properties":{},"content":"That leaves her with plenty to find on Constitution Hill’s 175, although the Elliott mare will have the advantage of a crucial 7lb sex allowance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CEPYT6WOKRBUZAM356LBYY37JM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Brighterdaysahead’s only career defeat came at last year’s festival when upset by Golden Ace in the Mares' novice hurdle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"N237TTPHFFFBFJ5UESFAOJYQ2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"She has enjoyed a notably productive season so far, winning first time out at Down Royal before making all under Kennedy to defeat State Man in Punchestown’s Morgiana in November. With Kennedy sidelined, Sam Ewing stepped in for the mount in resounding fashion over Christmas. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"QZWNRF5IV5FYTKWRWP3FROCHLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Confirmation of her festival target prompted some to speculate that Ireland’s other top mare, Lossiemouth, might skip the Champion Hurdle and take the chance to avail of the easier opportunity against her own sex.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKE5HWVD2ZESFMA2AGRS6IHEJI","additional_properties":{},"content":"At one point, Lossiemouth was cut to as low as 4-6 for the Mares' despite Willie Mullins repeatedly saying this season the Champion Hurdle is her target. The champion trainer also has Jade De Grugy in the Mares' contest.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S7WBVQ74UVBMHEXHWYPLENGFGI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Henry de Bromhead got a winning boost at Leopardstown ahead of next week’s Cheltenham action when <u>Koktail Divin</u> broke his duck over hurdles.","type":"text"},{"_id":"352OTSRBLJBATOWBTMKS6AUJJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The winner isn’t going to the festival – waiting instead for Aintree next month – but his victory was a morale booster for the De Bromhead team after they endured some sketchy form after Christmas.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M6ZO4FUWJJAYZMQ6PKWAVEXCEI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“He had a lovely run at Christmas, but I probably messed up when we were under the weather in January,” the Co Waterford trainer said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CD7D4XVK7BE4JF4XHTCLKY53OU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Gold Cup hope Monty’s Star will be part of De Bromhead’s Cheltenham team that also sees Workahead carrying the Koktail Divin colours of Barry Maloney in the opening Supreme.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GDMOKOJKIZDSDN4CWFVDW63MZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Workahead will go for the Supreme. He seems really good, he worked well the other day and I’m delighted with him. His form has worked out really well, obviously.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FXIOQIQT3ZFV3GQMSCW5GFDTEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Monty’s in the Gold Cup. We are only getting there now, I’d say he needed the Irish Gold Cup again and he’ll step forward for that as well. We’ll see where we are then against Galopin [Des Champs]. He’s obviously very hard to beat, but I’m hoping we’d hit the frame,” he added.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"Champion jockey had two rides for Gordon Elliott at Leopardstown on Monday"},"display_date":"2025-03-03T16:13:17.427Z","headlines":{"basic":"Jack Kennedy returns to action as Brighterdaysahead confirmed for Champion Hurdle","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WMJ6EIC7S5ECLFHEJN6JYHQCSY","auth":{"1":"987f05318bae5595aad8153967fa8f8fadfab73697945db383929398c7171938"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WMJ6EIC7S5ECLFHEJN6JYHQCSY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/03/03/jack-kennedy-returns-to-action-as-brighterdaysahead-confirmed-for-champion-hurdle/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"JHDWZNQPVFFAFBY2I67B2Q5PAI","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":313,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/cfcae84e-b344-4663-91ff-83aee09bb73a/versions/1740759849/media/80355c0dbf72c68e50eda564bd0bcc3e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/02/28/jack-kennedy-as-low-as-7-1-to-be-leading-rider-at-cheltenham-as-he-returns-from-broken-leg/","content_elements":[{"_id":"EIUHEILBYJAWZNPX4ECWPHMKF4","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025804},"content":"Champion jockey Jack Kennedy is as low as 7-1 to seal his latest injury comeback by being crowned leading rider at the upcoming <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival/\" target=\"_blank\">Cheltenham Festival</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UF2JLWRXKVASZFPJ4WU4752A4E","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025805},"content":"It was confirmed on Friday the 25-year-old has got a green light to return to the saddle at Leopardstown on Monday, eight days before the start of the biggest racing week of the year.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WOV3PZCB2FEIVLPQPVD3R4H7DQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025806},"content":"Kennedy has been out of action since the end of November after suffering the sixth broken leg of his hugely successful but injury-blighted career following a fall at Fairyhouse.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GTUEI4KBPNEHJD5TYBSMXGGQWE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025807},"content":"A previous leg-break meant he missed Cheltenham in 2023. But the man who broke his festival duck as a 17-year-old on Labaik in 2017 looks to have timed his return perfectly.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZBZ5R27PHZBJJLC6EZ6IBCCCNY","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025808},"content":"“I feel fitter than I’ve ever been coming back from an injury. That’s a massive help but obviously you have to ride in a few races just to blow out the cobwebs and to get the lungs opened up again. But I’m definitely fitter than I’ve ever been coming back,” Kennedy reported.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y5YXCKXMDNDL7NLGDLQT4AFFTI","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025809},"content":"It’s good news for Gordon Elliott whose massive festival team Kennedy will have first pick of, including star mare Brighterdaysahead who may take on Constitution Hill in the Champion Hurdle. The Mares race is an alternative target with a decision on which option she will take up expected soon. Teahupoo is also favourite to retain his Stayers Hurdle crown.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5HCI7BUIYVAZZLGYJ653DRBFXE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025810},"content":"“Brighterdaysahead in whatever race she goes for, she’s very exciting, then I suppose Teahupoo in the Stayers’. They’re probably the two main ones,” Kennedy said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q42WN7NJ3FBVNGPZL7L2WIOFNM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025811},"content":"He was non-committal on what decision he would like Brighterdaysahead’s Gigginstown Stud ownership to make.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KUQFLHFK65HYLOMFWFCGS3LT3M","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025812},"content":"“I suppose there are two sides of it. You’d love to win a Champion Hurdle obviously and rather win a Champion Hurdle than a Mares’ Hurdle. But if you’re coming out of there on Tuesday after having a winner in either race, whichever one you could win would be great.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2RC5OLV7DZFPPMM4FUTX7RPFRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025813},"content":"“I’d love to have a Champion Hurdle on my CV, but the most important thing is winning whatever race it is. She’s probably the best chance we’ve had of a Champion Hurdle so far, but I’d be hoping for a big run in whichever race she’s in,” he added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"43BGC5DP2JFY5LGEZB3NPCH5YE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025814},"content":"Kennedy’s 11 career successes at the festival are topped by Minella Indo’s Gold Cup victory in 2021. With such firepower at his disposal, betting firms cut his odds about dethroning rival Paul Townend as leading rider at Cheltenham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E3QQKFTI6RFY3FXRQEYXT7TIL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025815},"content":"Nevertheless, Townend is a red-hot favourite to be top jockey for a fourth year in a row and a fifth time in all. Townend has 34 festival wins in all.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LI7L5YYYIVBQ3EIBTD3PDCB2WM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025816},"content":"Last season Townend completed a Champion Hurdle-Gold Cup-Grand National hat-trick with Kennedy runner up in all three races of National Hunt racing’s unofficial Triple Crown. Kennedy though emerged on top in a memorable tussle to be champion jockey in Ireland.","type":"text"},{"_id":"54BKM6OT7FG6ZF4T44WVPVLEYE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025817},"content":"Townend is on duty this weekend with four rides including a single mount at Leopardstown’s Sunday fixture. Adamantly Chosen is his pick from Willie Mullins’s options in the Listed handicap chase, a steer many will note considering how much he has to look forward to in Cheltenham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UO5KK2YJIFAOJHXIXHXLQ2SH3I","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025818},"content":"The country’s top rider also had a choice in Saturday’s Grade Two Webster Chase at Navan.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TYFI3UQGVRFWNA5T3QL44CT3FQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025819},"content":"El Fabiolo and Grangeclare West would be proper Grade One festival hopes in most any other operation in the sport. Such is the strength in depth of the Mullins team though they look set to hoover up this €45,000 prize.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YQYYZM4F6BCQNM4CIQGQNVDAEY","additional_properties":{"_id":"C7TXSMQ3BFCGNILAUR5WK3WJVM"},"type":"image"},{"_id":"JOWFDCXVKZEBNHU5ZNUZU2IZAU","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025820},"content":"Grangeclare West is 16-1 in lists for the Gold Cup having belied much longer odds to chase home Galopin Des Champs at the Dublin Racing Festival. Both he and El Fabiolo hold Ryanair entries while the latter would be no back-number in the Champion Chase.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WWWKOLGEK5A23HQD2CPS5UQDNI","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025821},"content":"Townend has opted for El Fabiolo who only got as far as the second before exiting at the DRF. The giant gelding hasn’t kicked on from the potential he showed as a novice although this intermediate trip might allow his suspect jumping a little more rope.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZZM6NINGOBA6NDQ7RZJD2DSELI","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025822},"content":"Champ Kiely holds a Brown Advisory option at Cheltenham but has a Grade Three target first in the two-mile Flyingbolt Novice Chase.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SONA5RNPUJAVVDSD7EUNKK2QQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025823},"content":"A top-flight novice winner over hurdles, Champ Kiely won his chase debut on his return from a long absence before running fourth to Ballyburn at the DRF. The minimum trip looks well short of his best, but he still looks the benchmark for just four opponents to reach.","type":"text"},{"_id":"M4KWK5G2RFD4HJRTQEXUNMSKBY","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025824},"content":"The eight-year-old Flemensface has just the fourth racecourse start of his life in a maiden hurdle on Saturday, but it could result in him making headlines for all the right reasons.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X3IEGXVBSVA2RHWWJSVM4WALL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025825},"content":"Now in the care of Eoin Griffin, the horse was unwittingly at the centre of controversy in 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LMPAJMWDNRH7ZEGCJFJPXPDICQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025826},"content":"Eventually disqualified from a point to point for failing a drugs test, in the interim he went through the sales ring for €100,000 and wound up with the unsuspecting cross-channel trainer Lucinda Russell.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7KMY4W2Y4ZD5TPNL5KV4VM6LDQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025827},"content":"When the horse got banned from racing for 14 months by the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board, Russell sent the horse back to the sales company, an episode that underlined how much of an information gap there was since at the time of purchase there had been no inkling of a drugs issue looming.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UOCACXO24RDNRNV4EA3AIJIE7E","additional_properties":{"_id":1740758025828},"content":"The blameless Flemensface recently ran an encouraging second to the heavy favourite Argento Boy at Punchestown last time and the third from that race has won since.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"Champion jockey set to return action at Leopardstown on Monday just a week ahead of biggest meeting of the year"},"display_date":"2025-02-28T16:19:03.543Z","headlines":{"basic":"Jack Kennedy as low as 7-1 to be leading rider at Cheltenham as he returns from broken leg ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"WTUNYWGCFIGG5LBFIEPHCPS3TI","auth":{"1":"ac99eb5632079ff16a0d5a15045a105d04c3b4131d57ea7a9e54b2c2abc96384"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/WTUNYWGCFIGG5LBFIEPHCPS3TI.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/02/28/jack-kennedy-as-low-as-7-1-to-be-leading-rider-at-cheltenham-as-he-returns-from-broken-leg/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"X3XHAHMOTFHTXJNX6JQG4T3SPE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":176,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/e1f7234c-1d52-461f-8947-6d48b021ff1f/versions/1740755607/media/f1787230631d62f3ea89254009447d60_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/02/28/trainer-eric-mcnamara-wins-appeal-and-overturns-penalties-imposed-after-clonmel-non-trier-inquiry/","content_elements":[{"_id":"Y5VTCBASIZH7VCSKEEU6ZDMOJQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Eric McNamara has said he felt “singled out” for the large penalties imposed under non-trier rules about his runner Mount Ferns at Clonmel earlier this month, all of which have been lifted by an Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) appeals panel.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TPR33NF63BCAPAWL57Q5SDHHIM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Co Limerick trainer was fined €6,000 and his son Conor, who rode Mount Ferns, was suspended for 40 days after the race-day stewards took a dim view of the horse’s performance when sixth in a novice handicap chase.","type":"text"},{"_id":"R2EZJBNQUBGGJCT7BXN4ZGKEHI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mount Ferns was also suspended from racing for 90 days following the stewards’ conclusion that jockey and trainer had breached Rule 212 by “deliberately or recklessly causing or permitting a horse to run other than on its merits”.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3W52RIDBSVC7VI746H5LW6LAPM","additional_properties":{},"content":"McNamara snr described the penalties as outrageous and insisted the horse was trying its best. Conor McNamara said Mount Ferns started to hang badly down the hill to the straight and that he couldn’t ride the horse out to the line.","type":"text"},{"_id":"NJTNYGVZANGD3KWLAFZVNTOZZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"An IHRB vet at Clonmel said Mount Ferns was “post-race normal”. However, an appeal hearing on Wednesday heard that the horse was lame on three legs the day after he ran at Clonmel.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DAP7O3NAIJFQZNKBLOC6QKDCVE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“When he came home that evening, he was lame, and the following morning when the vet came to examine him, he was lame on three legs,” said Eric McNamara on Friday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5NGGL76K5JCIJJR3QCACGBADLY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Plus, the fact how we showed them videos of his last four or five runs where his tendency to hang has been getting worse and worse and it came to a peak when the horse was hanging so badly he was ‘wrong.’ Conor couldn’t actually ride the horse up the straight. That was it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QHEHKZDYGRH3BBVBBPRBI4XRTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I just thought it looked like we were singled out for some reason. I don’t know why. The penalties were horrendous in the first place, absolutely horrendous. But I still stand by we were 100 per cent innocent,” he added.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6UIGSMKR3JAGBE42A25A6P5EKE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The trainer, who has trained for more than 40 years and enjoyed big-race success including a Grade One in France, was helped at the appeal by his son Emmet, rider of the 2020 Epsom Derby hero Serpentine.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BD722GHM55H5ZGOZ3UISJHXVYI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We had a very fair hearing. They listened to all the evidence and came up with the right result. We didn’t have solicitors or barristers. We defended the case ourselves, myself and my two sons, and we spoke honestly and truthfully and they came up with the right result,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QO7VWZVMSJHEZKUQK6DUCW7LJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"In other news, Emmet Mullins again has Kelso’s Morebattle Hurdle in his sights on Saturday as Vischio bids to follow up her recent victory at the Dublin Racing Festival.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RLPVL4QJHZBJFPJAUUDENQEPS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Mullins landed the Scottish track’s annual highlight with The Shunter in 2021. That horse proceeded to secure a big-money bonus by subsequently scoring at the Cheltenham Festival. Vischio could also be eligible for a six-figure bonus if successful.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YKPLXOHQUZESNFQQ7SZTWRMTZU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier on the Kelso card, Patrick Mullins will hope to make his first Kelso ride a winning one on his father’s Chart Topper in a Grade Two novice hurdle.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Brian O'Connor"}},"name":"Brian O'Connor"}]},"description":{"basic":"Mount Ferns found to be ‘lame on three legs’ day after finishing sixth in controversial race "},"display_date":"2025-02-28T16:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Trainer Eric McNamara wins appeal and overturns penalties imposed after Clonmel ‘non-trier’ inquiry ","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OCXHAQXIURFNFB2EATWNTXW4OY","auth":{"1":"1d46bcf883bffa41ac94dd1fe6d3952c049bbe1ccf8d130967edd907c9f7f2cd"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OCXHAQXIURFNFB2EATWNTXW4OY.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/02/28/trainer-eric-mcnamara-wins-appeal-and-overturns-penalties-imposed-after-clonmel-non-trier-inquiry/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"VXAFTSCLOFABFF6SALDKWTY2NA","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":140,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/ea6e3715-c735-413d-96c7-189c42b801dc/versions/1740675337/media/6dbcbc5c04baec2ff968ab7f38fff274_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/02/27/opening-race-of-cheltenham-festival-to-be-named-in-memory-of-michael-osullivan/","content_elements":[{"_id":"SLLQZTEOJFH4NAFIC533ZRY2KQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Michael O’Sullivan will be honoured at the Cheltenham Festival with the Supreme Novices’ Hurdle to be run in his memory.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AZHLMU75YRBBVK6AIFDELS4UEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The young jockey enjoyed his finest hour in the saddle when winning the race aboard Barry Connell’s Marine Nationale in 2023, the first success of a red-letter day as he would go on to land the Fred Winter on Gordon Elliott’s Jazzy Matty during the same afternoon.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YOLCJUNZ5VG3HA7Z3VSGUUU76E","additional_properties":{},"content":"O’Sullivan suffered a fall at Thurles earlier this month and after spending 10 days in intensive care at Cork University Hospital, it was announced he had died from his injuries at just 24 years of age.","type":"text"},{"_id":"OOJVFVIJD5DBRM2HFAKKYHAUOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"His loss has left the sport deeply shaken and he will be very much in the minds of those attending the Festival, where he is to be formally remembered in the naming of the opening race of the meeting.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IJJO4LAIWFACXN7WTEB343K3EQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Supreme is sponsored by Sky Bet, who in conjunction with the Jockey Club have renamed the race The Michael O’Sullivan Supreme Novices’ Hurdle for 2025.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QK5FUDU74NDJTKB6CJRY7NJSTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The O’Sullivan family said in a statement: “We are deeply proud of Michael’s incredible talent and the legacy he left in the world of racing.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DCBGVQRPUNAIRPY3ILPV3IK62U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Renaming the race that marked the pinnacle of his career is a fitting tribute to his skill, dedication, and passion for the sport.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3EYIWK2ZP5GSLOLR63LVQJHIBY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“As a family, we have always admired Michael’s achievements both on and off the track, and it means so much to us to see his talent recognised in this way. The outpouring of tributes over the past week has been a testament to the impact he had on so many lives.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XCZ6EKPTDZC6XK23LDQWINFA64","additional_properties":{},"content":"“We would like to sincerely thank the Jockey Club and Sky Bet for giving us this opportunity to honour Michael’s memory and celebrate his remarkable career.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"HB2AIDJDKJEMDNDIYESZWHKH4M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Guy Lavender, CEO of Cheltenham Racecourse, added: “Michael was an outstanding jockey and recognised by everyone as a wonderful young man.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ASMRF2TXUJFETACL2HTHBZTU2U","additional_properties":{},"content":"“When you read the heartfelt tributes paid to him over these past days, you can see how highly regarded he was in the racing community on both sides of the Irish Sea and beyond.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XVVA56CBWBHJVFDE4O47OXRKEM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Given that it was at Cheltenham that Michael enjoyed his biggest success as a rider back on that magical Tuesday afternoon in 2023, we felt it was only right to pay tribute to Michael in this way.","type":"text"},{"_id":"E5Y3R2FVOBAV3GYB3XQ7VARD6Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Our sincere thanks go to our sponsors of this race, Sky Bet, for making it possible. All our thoughts continue to be with Michael’s family, friends and weighing-room colleagues at this difficult time and for allowing us to pay tribute in this way.”","type":"text"}],"credits":{"by":[]},"description":{"basic":"Family says of renaming Supreme Novices’ Hurdle: ‘It means so much to us to see his talent recognised in this way’"},"display_date":"2025-02-27T16:30:08.687Z","headlines":{"basic":"Opening race of Cheltenham Festival to be named in memory of Michael O’Sullivan","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"K7FN2FTIFAMIL25XECR6PNBMXQ","auth":{"1":"1d7b7022cd9a901758a916b547ddae997815a05a75bc6d6be7ae57747d4e8abc"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/K7FN2FTIFAMIL25XECR6PNBMXQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Racing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/racing/2025/02/27/opening-race-of-cheltenham-festival-to-be-named-in-memory-of-michael-osullivan/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/racing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Racing"}}}},{"_id":"HA6GLYI3QVGW3EJY6H5ZSKZ4MY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":258,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/ffd475ee-cfbd-4b70-9c77-64bf31b6ddea/versions/1740502956/media/d11cac771850bb3f235ec3326f6a15db_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/racing/2025/02/26/willie-mullins-just-7-1-to-beat-his-2022-record-of-10-winners-at-the-cheltenham-festival/","content_elements":[{"_id":"GGD5T2QNYNHP7CRT5SPGLES5IU","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079949},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/willie-mullins/\" target=\"_blank\">Willie Mullins</a> is just 7-1 to beat his own record tally of 10 winners in a single festival at the upcoming <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cheltenham-festival/\" target=\"_blank\">Cheltenham</a> extravaganza.","type":"text"},{"_id":"WMSGPP6OEREKVI5NOZQVUSH75E","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079950},"content":"The sport’s dominant figure pulled off double-figures at the biggest meeting of the year in 2022 including a 1,518-1 five-timer on the final day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XS7FHILUVFHLHBRMZN4RP7BF3I","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079951},"content":"It didn’t include the Gold Cup but with Galopin Des Champs a heavy odds-on favourite to pull off a “Blue Riband” hat-trick, and the trainer dominating ante-post betting for so many of the 28 races, Paddy Power is going 7-1 about 11 or more Mullins winners this time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AGRG5LXKDNCZFP5NYLEJNWLYEQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079952},"content":"Ireland’s champion trainer burst through the “century” mark for the festival last year and will start the festival on 103 winners in all. He is also long odds-on to land the leading trainer award for the 11th time in his record-breaking career.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6YQRQH4ZJJFN5DWTH54GRLQ2UI","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079953},"content":"Crucial to any new record haul will be “Galopin” and a potential superstar novice like Kopek Des Bordes in Grade One company. Mullins can also call on a new recruit in Aqua Force, purchased by JP McManus after her impressive Gowran debut, and entered for the Weatherbys Champion Bumper.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YJVACC5Z5ZAUBPCQDUWKTYUFLU","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079954},"content":"However, handicap success will also be vital, and it is another “Kopek” that attracted attention when weights for the festival’s dozen handicap contests were revealed on Tuesday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IOLCTELGPNFZ3BLTFROX7UKUAE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079955},"type":"image"},{"_id":"T2ZDILWZPRABJOTRZZLJOISS6I","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079956},"content":"Kopek De Mee has never run for Mullins but has had bookmakers spooked for some time on the back of five runs over hurdles in France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VBJKT233YJBBFA64AQXQZCMCBU","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079957},"content":"Purchased by JP McManus after completing a hat-trick of wins in a Listed race at Auteuil last May, Kopek De Mee has been given a mark of 136 by the British handicapper.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UP6ODXR73NAPNKI5EZEHR3SZLQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079958},"content":"It immediately resulted in him topping the betting for his trio of Cheltenham options in the Coral Cup, County Hurdle and Martin Pipe Conditional Hurdle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4JOVQTUK3VBT5G2QF5NA3GXG3I","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079959},"content":"In recent season Mullins has enjoyed plenty of success in handicaps at the festival including when the McManus-owned Saint Roi justified plenty market confidence in the 2020 County Hurdle.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EFKTHQIZFJE27FPJQJFLJTDN3A","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079960},"content":"Mullins has won that contest six times in all. State Man justified another gamble in 2022 while Absurde scored a year ago. Galopin Des Champs in 2021 was one of four Mullins victories in the Martin Pipe. His sole success in the Coral Cup came through Bleu Berry in 2018.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RAZLMGKCKBD7ZH3DOVKSCHJXDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079961},"content":"Another McManus-owned horse, McLaurey, has also been give a mark of 136 in BHA ratings, 3lbs higher than his rating in Ireland following an impressive Dublin Racing Festival victory.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6OR5CCVFB5D77PNNVPAK7KYNL4","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079962},"content":"On the countdown to Cheltenham, Mullins is taking care of domestic business too and has made 16 entries for this weekend across Navan and Leopardstown after Tuesday’s latest acceptance stage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RQIHAWGPCJG3LJ57HZELMPXGDY","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079963},"content":"Most noteworthy amongst them are in Saturday’s Grade Two Webester Chase at Navan where both El Fabiolo and Grangeclare West are still in the mix.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5QJT6GBI3BCTXKDXQVMNMEFWEI","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079964},"content":"The latter belied his 66-1 SP when chasing home Galopin Des Champs in the Irish Gold Cup earlier this month and is a general 16-1 shot for both the Ryanair and the Gold Cup at Cheltenham.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JE46P27QJJHTFG7U2OTN3ZZFR4","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079965},"content":"El Fabiolo fell on his last start at the Dublin Racing Festival but remains a 10-1 shot for both the Ryanair and the Queen Mother Champion Chase.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YQYYZM4F6BCQNM4CIQGQNVDAEY","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079966},"type":"image"},{"_id":"2SIXWYY4I5GNFOH6GMXLN5NL5U","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079967},"content":"Amongst the multitude of Cheltenham festival markets is one on what ground conditions will be on Day One and “good to soft” is currently odds-on.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3XETUECCONEO5ITQ3PMQLAAHZQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079968},"content":"That will require a squeeze up in the weather over the next fortnight as the going at Prestbury Park on Tuesday on both the Old and New courses was officially soft.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2CECRWHPHVEZ3PLGOWHKPVRC3Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079969},"content":"Clerk of the course Jon Pullin said over 20mms of rainfall hit the track over the weekend although he’s optimistic about the weather outlook.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5GWJ5OL5FNBDVBLGJGHFTDYQFM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079970},"content":"“Forecast-wise, a couple of frosts are expected this week and then it looks like fairly settled conditions for next week with no extremes of weather. Next week looks mainly dry, with just some showers on the odd day. We should also get back up to double-digit daytime temperatures.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3FUNO43JGBD7FPP6XYBY4ABJGM","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079971},"content":"“The Old Course has shown great recovery since we raced on it in October and November and it is in really good shape.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GZDRU4TQ65BNTHIZBGM7BRASIE","additional_properties":{"_id":1740501079972},"content":"“Obviously we have raced on the New Course more recently in December and January. In an ideal world, we would have had some warmer weather but given the weather that we have had, it has recovered fairly well. 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That made for a close race, English crucially getting himself into third place after the first lap, holding that spot until the bell.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Q5ZUHIYGMJDEPKOCQFDTABBUAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"He did drop back to fourth down the backstretch, before calmly coming through on the inside to nail third, Eliott Crestan from Belgium winning in 1:45.84, Samuel Chapple from the Netherlands second in 1:45.86 and English clocking 1:45.89.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UCUEQ3LNKFE6BPW5CCIVCHSBS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"After lowering his Irish record to 1:45.15 last month, breaking 1:46 indoors for the first time, that was still one of the fastest times of his career, the qualified doctor from Donegal clearly satisfied with his effort.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K3OXE4WSEVCMJNZLT22JU3DMOQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“A massive weight off the shoulders,” English admitted. “As I said yesterday, it’s a new day today, and it will be a new day tomorrow.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MOYZOTQXWJGFDEIM6DA2T7HHGY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“My plan was to try to be in contention for as much of it as possible, I feel like I did that. I doesn’t get any easier, 10 years later, everything gets tougher, but I’ll go into it with a plan, try to execute that plan as best I can.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"H7DK6D5665FTBNLEJ3YBF6CUYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sunday’s final is set for 4.27pm Irish time.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DX74IDYOBDS7HWZDZOBFPXTHQA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"VZXY6GIGGNHHDLY7Z5CQBDSZ4Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Cian McPhillips went in the first semi-final, the 22-year-old from Longford reinstated after being tripped in his heat. Despite putting himself in contention to also qualify, holding second place after 200m, he ended up seventh in 1:47.40.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XI4HJVL32BBDPHJALSGO2VBNYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Bori Akinola was back inside the Omnisport Arena after qualifying from his 60m heat earlier on Saturday, where the 23-year-old had finished second in 6.66 seconds after an excellent start.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MWA4W3DZ75CNBIQIM5GAVZF4EM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Racing in the second of three semi-finals, Akinola started well again, but was unable to secure one of the top-two automatic final spots. Britain’s Andy Robertson won in 6.56 seconds, Akinola fourth in 6.63, just outside his best of 6.61","type":"text"},{"_id":"TWBJD5D32ZFJTHHDV4ENEDEAZI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’ll definitely take the positives from that,” he said, Apeldoorn being his first individual senior championships. “And I’m really looking forward to the outdoor season.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"CGROOVLL7BCQ7DOOBCLPCU5A74","additional_properties":{},"content":"Earlier on Saturday, Sarah Healy also made certain of her place in the final of the 3,000m, winning her heat with ease and utter assurance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CPTZJ7MB7BDV3CWIT6QZMXWRHA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Healy had come to Apeldoorn in the form of her young life, ranked second in Europe this season over the distance having just turned 24. She has all the necessary experience to challenge for a top-three finish in Sunday’s final showdown (4.36pm Irish time).","type":"text"},{"_id":"IRCQZNILSZCINHCD2UN3Z3TAJ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Running in the first of two heats, Healy kept herself at the front of the race throughout, moving in front on the last lap and winning in 8:55.35, all while expending the minimal amount of effort. There was no such joy for Jodie McCann, who finished the second heat in 10th place in 9:18.73.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YI6DRMQZCJQXJYHU2DFUPYGNNA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"RAWGL5OU7RBLJLQW6NM6MPTPPY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m definitely relieved to qualify safely,” said Healy. “I feel like that as far as heats go it wasn’t too messy or stressful. I’ve never done a 3,000m heat before but I think it’s a little bit less stressful than a 1,500m heat, you have a bit more time to sort yourself out ... It felt good.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F7E7BYPAXBCK3MMN5CTBKRNNJY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Britain’s Melissa Courtney-Bryant, the fastest European this season, won that second heat in 9:08.19, and there are plenty of other threats too, including Salome Afonso from Portugal, who has placed second in the 1,500m.","type":"text"},{"_id":"CMK265X6DVGWJMOOCKUW2Q4D2Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"Andrew Coscoran also came to Apeldoorn ranked third in the men’s 3,000m, after also breaking the national record, and making Sunday’s final (3.50pm Irish time) was the very least of his ambitions.","type":"text"},{"_id":"X6FOJVUYPFCQTIS2FZXQTL2IXI","additional_properties":{},"content":"Things were a little trickier here, still Coscoran kept his head as the pace heated up over the closing laps, with Jakob Ingebrigtsen doing what he always does in qualifying when coming from the back to the front. The Norwegian star won in 7:55.32 and is well on course to complete a third 1,500m/3,000m double.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QDDY5LCPCVFSRCVYJEGZFYZZAM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Coscoran held on for fifth in 7:56.37, the top six all sure of advancing, and the race for second and third will certainly be tight. Coscoran has given himself a chance and that’s plenty good for now. “I’m really looking forward to the final tomorrow, I’m very confident coming into it,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GHQSKJIE25CQZLJ42WU3LW2F7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the first heat, James Gormley placed eighth in 7:53.27, that race won by Britain’s George Mills in 7:50.87.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DH4RZPNV373HDELTR2IU7TCZ7A","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4MO5CI4XAFGF5B6MED7FYE4O3E","additional_properties":{},"content":"Also in the morning session, Orla Comerford made the most of the new inclusion of a mixed Para Athletics event at the European Indoor Championships in the Netherlands in winning the 60m in terrific style, her time of 7.63 seconds just outside her lifetime best.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TKDGDF3NTNESVIGYY2ISLQLYXM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 27-year-old, who won bronze in the T13 100m at the Paris Paralympics, dominated the race from the gun. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"DNFGF3J6SBDZBKSOECN77HVSUQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This opportunity only came four weeks ago, and I started back late after Paris, so when the chance came around, we had to take it,” she said, her time just short of her lifetime best of 7.62. “It’s huge for Para Athletics to be here, Para Athletics is athletics, and athletics fans understand it. This is the first year they’ve had para races involved in the championships, and hopefully it will grow.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"36IEKFJRNVC7BI3DXMEDWNOWGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Kate O’Connor is also in action in Sunday’s closing sessions, ranked second among the entries in the women’s pentathlon.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"English clocks 1:45.89 to reach Sunday’s final"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T20:21:43.258Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ireland’s Mark English qualifies for 800m final at European Indoor Championships","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"RXOHGRU7ZMTNDHDWPAQOJKNOIU","auth":{"1":"655c1e59882e07cad5c36b6e0c7b49d42403d820f9a22048946a3b5e374af8f9"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/RXOHGRU7ZMTNDHDWPAQOJKNOIU.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/08/irelands-orla-comerford-wins-60m-event-at-european-indoor-championships/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"7PXCAX7DV5GWRDF72IZCAP3V4Q","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":48,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/f8541e1a-da8d-420a-bebe-d1a9feac2dc5/versions/1741450731/media/760f6600e1b4c5946cb1d1dd73752a0e_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/08/ellen-walshe-breaks-longest-standing-irish-record-in-200m-butterfly/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ellen-walshe/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ellen-walshe/\">Ellen Walshe</a> has broken the longest-standing Irish swimming record at the Leinster Aspiring Champions Meet in Dublin.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TNVRAMRPDRCWPKQLZ5F6BECVFU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The 23-year-old clocked 2:08.42 in the 200m butterfly event to best Michelle Smith’s long course record (2:09.91) which has stood since August 20th, 1996.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4LSG7JRP25BD5JEQS7QJUZBCLM","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Templeogue swimmer now holds four national senior long course records, having previously set Irish records in the 100m butterfly and 200m and 400m IM.","type":"text"},{"_id":"THVEJUSGGJAUZK5HKXUUWLVEKU","additional_properties":{},"content":"She also holds five Irish short course (25m) records; the 100m and 200m butterfly, and 100m, 200m and 400m IM.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Muireann Duffy"}},"name":"Muireann Duffy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Templeogue swimmer bests long course record held by Michelle Smith since 1996"},"display_date":"2025-03-08T16:13:43.043Z","headlines":{"basic":"Ellen Walshe breaks longest-standing Irish record in 200m butterfly","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"BYDGYL2KFBCW5IP75DCOS5HVG4","auth":{"1":"14fc9879a93b01db983ef593f47de908fc138fb6d419d41f650c8ee8830efbf4"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/BYDGYL2KFBCW5IP75DCOS5HVG4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/08/ellen-walshe-breaks-longest-standing-irish-record-in-200m-butterfly/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"JST26UWRYBC5BH675RZ7JDEOIY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":395,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/7d61dcbe-13cd-43e8-aad2-720e079b0d71/versions/1741383707/media/409a56c0cb5999444cf11e20aba765b7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sarah-lavin-finishes-fourth-in-60m-hurdles-final-at-european-indoor-championships/","content_elements":[{"_id":"NNKIQSFFNJB5JHXNNNQN7MMA6A","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829592},"content":"It was the fastest race in the history of European women’s indoor sprint hurdles and <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sarah-lavin/\" target=\"_self\">Sarah Lavin</a> was right in the thick of it, before just falling short of making the medal podium despite running her best time all season.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2MVABBF4V5DHRH4TCD7SZBHYPE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829593},"content":"In the end it was heartbreak for the 30-year-old from Limerick, Lavin finishing fourth in the 60m hurdles at the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-indoor-championships/\" target=\"_self\">European Indoor Championships</a> in Apeldoorn behind a trio of women who all ran their best on the night too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6U4RMIZCGNGVZCYER4XZCSJLAI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829594},"content":"Ditaji Kambundji from Switzerland powered to gold in 7.67 seconds to break the European and Championship record, and naturally a Swiss record too. Two-time previous champion and local Dutch hope Nadine Visser was second in 7.72, also a national record, and Poland’s Pia Skrzyszowska won bronze in 7.83, also a season best.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJ4NCKY3UJHDBJJ2SOWLFLOCQM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829595},"content":"All three had made championship podiums before, the brilliant 22-year-old Kambundji third last time out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5AKGQZZMIBC4FMKEJJFPLB6NPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829596},"content":"Then came Lavin in 7.92 seconds. Despite getting an excellent start, she simply couldn’t get herself into that medal winning position in the five-hurdles race, each 33 inches high.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YSX4N6GD3FBETHAL73XWZHBIJM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829597},"content":"Such are the close margins in sprint hurdles. It was also Lavin’s fourth consecutive major indoor final, having previously finished fifth and seventh in the World Indoors (2022 and 2024), and sixth at the last European Indoors.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VXH55DWBGNADBM3E6REPSB56YE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829598},"content":"Derval O’Rourke twice won bronze medals at this level, in 2009 and in 2013, and yet for Lavin this might well have proved her best chance to join her, even as she becomes a model of consistency on the major championship stage.","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFE6JISTZBC7PFXRKR7QFUJOHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829599},"content":"“It’s probably the fastest fourth place ever,” said Lavin after the race. “I’m competing with the best girls ever, that have been in Europe. I still have the World Indoors in two weeks’ time in China, but at the same time, I’ve gone seventh, sixth, fifth, fourth (in the last four indoor championships), so I’m going in the right direction.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TLK3KIDCGND7BJJQPSLRUCGXJY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829600},"content":"“But fourth is fourth, no one is happy with fourth. It’s just one of those things, but at the same time, considering where I was a few weeks ago, I’m sure I’ll look back in a few days and be more measured about it. I just need to raise my own standards, and we’ll find a way.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JCBHUYFA7AVYDAPBOCITRMGLGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829601},"type":"image"},{"_id":"TQXJJN2UBZBOTOTX4KAMZ2DXQU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829602},"content":"Earlier on Friday night, Jakob Ingebrigtsen added another European title as if jogging down his driveway to check his letterbox, winning the 1,500m exactly the way he wanted in 3:36.57 after moving from last to first with four and a half laps to go, running 26.1 seconds for the final lap.","type":"text"},{"_id":"V7CQOP73KJGW7JRKEZBGFKE3DU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829603},"content":"Still only 24, that makes it 22 European titles in all for the Norwegian, including cross country and junior titles – along with his five world records, two Olympic gold, and two World titles. The incredibly gifted Ingebrigtsen who keeps on giving.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IYPXQIOY2NFKVND2OWLUAWIHPE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829604},"content":"He’s not finished in Apeldoorn yet, back on the track on Saturday morning looking to make another 3,000m final, and complete a third consecutive indoor double.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JEMFHMKEAJBIDNMHGKNQRPB7QE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829605},"content":"Britain’s Georgia Hunter Bell wasn’t quite as fancied to win the women’s 1,500m, but appeared poised for victory when running at the front for most of the seven and a half laps, the 31-year-old looking to complete her medal set having won silver at the European outdoors last June, and bronze at the Paris Olympics.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TPB722G2W5C7RJQFUOHWNIUHGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829606},"content":"Instead, Hunter Bell was passed by three runners in the final sprint for home, Agatha Guillemot from France surprising herself as much as anyone to win gold in 4:07.23.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RBJPBPPQ6FFANHQ735RSVXE7IY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829607},"content":"In the Friday morning session, some 14 hours after <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sharlene-mawdsley/\" target=\"_self\">Sharlene Mawdsley</a> ran the fastest anchor leg of the mixed 4x400m relay final, she <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sharlene-mawdsley-withdraws-from-400m-heats-at-european-indoors/\" target=\"_self\">withdrew from her heat of the individual 400m</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Z7RYAVNJQBFCXOA4WHOVRCVWLE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829608},"content":"Mawdsley later explained she had suffered a minor hamstring injury during the warm-up: “Unfortunately I’ve had to withdraw from the 400m this morning due to a slight hamstring injury in the warm up,” she posted on Instagram.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YLEPDVD3OZHB5LLRARB52PAAK4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829609},"content":"“I’m devastated after my run in yesterday’s relay splitting a 49.9 but I’ll be back for outdoors.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"IQSIZ4SWLNFQ4PYSMR2TKL7MI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829610},"type":"image"},{"_id":"QRWMCD37D5B75MN2RGLOIJL3LU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829611},"content":"Despite Mawdsley’s 49.93-second split on Thursday night, the Irish quartet still fell short of a medal, finishing fifth, victory going to the home team, the Netherlands. Mawdsley’s interest in Apeldoorn is now over and she will also miss the women’s 4x400m relay, run as a straight six-team final on Sunday evening.","type":"text"},{"_id":"W3AQJ2P5VVFB7EEGSA26HRDGKA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829612},"content":"Another Dutch favourite Lieke Klaver won the second heat in 51.52 seconds, having played no role in their mixed relay success the night before. In that same heat, Ireland’s Lauren Cadden finished fifth in 56.77 seconds, well off her best, having gone out a little too fast in the opening lap. Rachal McCann also went in heat four, and despite running a personal best of 53.16 to finish fourth, that wasn’t enough to progress.","type":"text"},{"_id":"O3A3TEB6QRHBVI5HQ2B4UZXJZU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829613},"content":"Both Mark English and Cian McPhillips endured a tense experience in their heats of the 800m, McPhillips bring tripped down the final backstretch of his race and ending up on the track, as did Bartosz Kitlinsk from Poland in front of him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3JPDRRDX6REI7CROR7IUOOT4GE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829614},"content":"Crucially, both runners got up to finish the race, McPhillips coming home in 1:57.35, and after Kitlinsk’s successfully appealed the contact which had earlier knocked him off his stride, McPhillips too was reinstated on appeal. Both runners will now take their place in the semi-finals on Saturday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MHFOILED5ZBI7LJXZDSP4G6F6E","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829615},"content":"English is the only member of the team who has won medals at this level before – 800m silver in 2015 and bronze in 2022 – but rode his luck a little too, still in fourth coming off the final bend, before a gap opened up and he finished second in 1:46.42.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ET5M6K7OGVFZXINOYAS6B4HYVA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829616},"content":"“It could’ve went anyway to be honest,” said English. “The seedings were a bit strange so I was quite nervous going into the race but thankfully I came through. I figured if I want to do anything at these championships I needed to finish in the top two.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"QXPFCIAWD5H5DN5TC5G33TEELA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829617},"content":"<b>Saturday schedule (Irish times)</b>","type":"text"},{"_id":"RNR5VK3YQ5CXFBRZWSXD7JPZGY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829618},"content":"9.20am: Sarah Healy, Jodie McCann – Women’s 3,000m, Round One","type":"text"},{"_id":"XJCSVJ5LPBCRTBJVHKTNM2VAC4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829619},"content":"11am: Bori Akinola – Men’s 60m, Round One","type":"text"},{"_id":"D2VKDROALBGMHEGDJEEA3AWHUE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829620},"content":"11.45am: Andrew Coscoran, James Gormley – Men’s 3,000m, Round One","type":"text"},{"_id":"VSWUDMA7LRDJJDKMQA44BUFIUM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829621},"content":"12.17pm: Orla Comerford – 60m Para Mixed Classification","type":"text"},{"_id":"S4DPG3IBGNABJHLZGQ5NCA2WPM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741383829622},"content":"7.13pm: Mark English, Cian McPhillips – Men’s 800m, Semi-Final","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Limerick hurdler just outside the medals with season best performance in Apeldoorn"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T21:36:04.732Z","headlines":{"basic":"Sarah Lavin finishes fourth in 60m hurdles final at European Indoor Championships","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"2NHFYTJO5D24N4UOQWIPKWUHXM","auth":{"1":"32d3f5a46a8a52393f7f1f7368e916d83512a3179bfab226045fb3bef5edbb9f"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/2NHFYTJO5D24N4UOQWIPKWUHXM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sarah-lavin-finishes-fourth-in-60m-hurdles-final-at-european-indoor-championships/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"OOE5WDGJR5GX5P3JE7ZZ2F4N2E","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":326,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/f35292c3-d75e-4bfc-aa32-2727468f384e/versions/1741353091/media/267488489aa4c951c2d6ffeb31c07db7_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/irish-women-have-real-medal-winning-potential-at-european-indoor-championships-this-weekend/","content_elements":[{"_id":"2K54ADHDUBDMJO7U5IPPNIB3NA","additional_properties":{},"content":"There has been a notable shift and resurgence in the expectations of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/\">Irish</a> <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/athletics/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/athletics/\">athletes</a> competing on the international stage. They are no longer travelling in hope, and more in the expectation and belief that they certainly belong in finals, and, given the right opportunity, can deliver a medal-winning performance.","type":"text"},{"_id":"STWOZEEOQVCGBDHV2XKOXHTSSU","additional_properties":{},"content":"It is also timely and fitting that as <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/international-women-s-day/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/international-women-s-day/\">International Women’s Day</a> is celebrated on Saturday, with a focus on women’s participation in sport throughout the week, women have been the real headliners in the Irish athletics team in recent times.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JHTH2MV7ARHOXMFUY4FGCIBRJA","additional_properties":{},"content":"That is the case again this weekend at the European Indoor Championships now under way in the Dutch city of Apeldoorn, the team of 19 Irish athletes made up of 10 women and nine men. Even without <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rhasidat-adeleke/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rhasidat-adeleke/\">Rhasidat Adeleke,</a> who is focused firmly on the summer ahead, those women have real medal-winning potential.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SWU6AE4345AW5H7FOKJ3UX5ABY","additional_properties":{},"content":"This is also the level of competition where Irish athletes should be winning medals, especially after coming home empty-handed from the last two editions in 2021 and 2023. These championships have been growing in stature, and no medals will be easily won. I never competed at a European Indoors back in my time, simply because they weren’t really on my radar, but some of the world’s very best athletes are in Apeldoorn, including of course <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jakob-ingebrigtsen/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jakob-ingebrigtsen/\">Jakob Ingebrigtsen</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"AYPR7S66ORGAZNNTJYXXT3QE7U","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"YREBSV5JZBDNVNZTL2FQ65JUOM","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"P5NHH2MNBVGBPI22BLDGARO6WE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Sharlene Mawdsley withdraws from 400m heats at European Indoors","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"2KD3ZJKEMNBSRJW2M6OP7EH4QU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The final event of these championships will be the women’s 4x400m relay, and you can only expect one result here with Dutch star Femke Bol solely focused on the relays, but even without Sharlene Mawdsley the Irish women can be in that medal mix too.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D6GTKDYCF67KFSOD6JTZIMO5LQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"4UJIHWB6QFDKZOSDM7DKJUSKYE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Individually, the greatest weight of expectation for Ireland is on the shoulders of Sarah Healy, who has shown her ability throughout the indoor season to compete with the best athletes in the world over 1,500m and 3,000m. She’s running the 3,000m here, ranked second among the entries, and fresh off breaking two Irish national championship records in both the heat and final of the 1,500m, and is clearly in the best shape of her life.","type":"text"},{"_id":"463F4UGAO5DBZB4TFUZ4GJDTVY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Championship running is all about tactics and less about fast times, but Healy has plenty of experience now. Some eyebrows were raised this week when European Athletics announced that Wavelight technology would be used in Apeldoorn, for the first time in any championships, which could take some of the emphasis away from the tactics part.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UX2OKJXVQVDWLILZABGJBM7BEQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"However, this LED pacing system, which sees lights on the inside of a track help athletes target a specific time, will not be used as a direct aid to athletes, according to European Athletics.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GD2JJA3LUVDBRGJPF4KLXRWO5E","additional_properties":{},"content":"In the 1,500m and 3,000m heats, Wavelight will act as a guide, providing a reference pace that remains the same across all heats. The system will switch on after the first third of the race and switch off before the final lap, offering spectators a clearer comparison of how different races unfold. For the finals, Wavelight technology will display European, world and championship records, but only when an athlete is within five metres of surpassing one.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ML4BTI6NYZBK5BDCCC6ULUVSCY","additional_properties":{},"content":"For me, this still takes something away from championship-style racing, where the athletes are required to think on their feet and react within the race, and we may lose the championship drama that comes with the uncertainty of how a race will pan out.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KU27CGETAJHGLLS3S4YBHVJ3PI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"HVKVYE75MRFIVA3BXIVZ6PAKDA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The second-best medal chance also comes on the women’s side with Kate O’Connor, who is having a clear run this indoor season and currently ranked second in the pentathlon, after breaking her own Irish record recently in the event that includes the 60m hurdles, long jump, high jump, shot put and 800m over the course of one day.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TPSPQMFIMVD45IP2FOOU34O4UA","additional_properties":{},"content":"The accumulation of points she posted was 4,683, and if she can replicate this on the European Championship stage should put her in a medal position. But she will have to be at her best, as the Netherlands also have a chance with Sophie Dokter, who will really want to get a result on the final day in front of her home crowd.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KJKO66KM3FCEPJSUSFO5QG74QI","additional_properties":{},"content":"On the men’s side, Mark English has been in scintillating form this indoor season, breaking his own Irish record over 800m when running 1:45.15, but he may not have it all his own way in terms of the Irish medal hopes, with Cian McPhillips showing more consistent form this season and also advance from Friday morning’s heats despite taking a tumble.","type":"text"},{"_id":"RNOAVJOI7NGH5M4QNVFQD7VQJU","additional_properties":{},"content":"English has been a dominant force in Irish 800m running for more than a decade, and this may just be the shake-up he needs, to have his fellow countryman breathing down his neck on a stage where English has delivered a bronze medal on two occasions, most recently in 2019, when Ciara Mageean also brought home a bronze medal in the 1,500m.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZEECG23ZXBACHBEAFWD57NXLVA","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"3APBU24Q7ZA2PFCD2B5OCYIHFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAZG2LYEFND75OTOTZ5TTLYCZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Andrew Coscoran hasn’t run a race since his record-breaking run over the mile at the Millrose Games exactly a month ago. That came shortly after he also broke the Irish 3,000m record in Boston, and places him third on the European list this season in the 3,000m, where he will line up against Ingebrigtsen.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FTXF5OO7UJD3VD4KBGGFNNKWLU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Ingebrigtsen never shies away from chasing any championship title and also plans to line up over 1,500m, and there’s no doubt he will be ready for any race tactic, with or without any pacing lights to help him run away from the field.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Sonia O'Sullivan"}},"name":"Sonia O'Sullivan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sarah Healy and Kate O’Connor among those in contention in the Netherlands amid strong competition"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T14:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"Irish women have real medal-winning potential at European Indoor Championships this weekend","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"MLUPRF6QFVBMBBDLGPPRMTNQRA","auth":{"1":"e68640848685015401eba4f375d1f8cc161eeffad55daa1f293e8268346f1cce"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/MLUPRF6QFVBMBBDLGPPRMTNQRA.jpg"}},"subtype":"columnist","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/irish-women-have-real-medal-winning-potential-at-european-indoor-championships-this-weekend/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"YBO2SFQ4ZVDUJM2EJYJOWLPX4A","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":135,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/229b3926-0cb2-449c-b9c6-c8a595c8ff21/versions/1741348798/media/49438b668c954cb413f8b02f0f5b5fdc_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sharlene-mawdsley-withdraws-from-400m-heats-at-european-indoors/","content_elements":[{"_id":"6BXDLPUWFNGWBCNME7NT3XNCVU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996113},"content":"Some 14 hours after <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sharlene-mawdsley/\">Sharlene Mawdsley</a> ran the fastest anchor leg of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/athletics/2025/03/06/sharlene-mawdsleys-searing-anchor-leg-still-leaves-ireland-short-of-a-mixed-relay-medal-at-the-european-indoors/\">mixed 4x400m relay final</a> she withdrew from her heat of the individual 400m in Friday’s morning session of the European Indoor Championships.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZF6XN7WGTND47BKH6WISQLZZCY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996114},"content":"Mawdsley explained on social media that she had suffered a minor hamstring injury during the warm-up.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G4XEUIVEIJESHKJ34MOJNGZYYY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996115},"content":"“Unfortunately I’ve had to withdraw from the 400m this morning due to a slight hamstring injury in the warm up,“ she posted on Instagram. “I’m devastated after my run in yesterday’s relay splitting a 49.9 but I’ll be back for outdoors.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"B2PX2OQCVJEN5FZ6CCQQ4BFCX4","subtype":"instagram","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"VLTRTQIYVFDPNDKUGCLY4QSYPI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996117},"content":"The Tipperary athlete had been drawn in the fifth of the five heats, with only the top two, plus the two fastest losers, progressing to the semi-finals later on Friday night. Mawdsley’s interest in Apeldoorn is now over and she will also miss the women’s 4x400m relay, run as a straight six-team final on Sunday evening.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7Q4MTYUB7ZDVBNQSFNMPPE2XRQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996118},"content":"Another Dutch favourite Lieke Klaver won the second heat in 51.52 seconds, having played no role in their mixed relay success the night before. In that same heat, Ireland’s Lauren Cadden finished fifth in 56.77 seconds, well off her best, having gone out a little too fast in the opening lap.","type":"text"},{"_id":"7Q4MTYUB7ZDVBNQSFNMPPE2XRQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996119},"content":"Rachal McCann also went in heat four, and despite running a personal best of 53.16 to finish fourth, that wasn’t enough to progress. There were some other surprises elsewhere, gold medal favourite Amber Anning from Great Britain was disqualified for a lane infringement after winning her heat in 51.01 seconds.","type":"text"},{"_id":"QSR74WPGTREAVLQ7VO7QNSB46Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996120},"content":"Sarah Lavin produced another cool and confident run to seal her place in the final of the 60m hurdles later this evening (8.43pm Irish time), nailing second place in her semi-final to ensure an automatic qualifying spot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y2OYRKQKIBA5PGX3AAWCHPR44M","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996121},"content":"After running a season best of 7.93 seconds to win her heat on Thursday evening, Lavin returned to the Omnisport Arena with clear intent, having made European and World Indoor finals over the previous two years.","type":"text"},{"_id":"PI7667AXWJCFXKDBBMHPVGL65Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996122},"content":"Pia Skrzyszowska from Poland, the 2022 European outdoor champion in the 100m hurdles, took the win in 7.84, with Lavin a clear second in 7.94. It promises to be a tight and hard-fought final, Ditaji Kambundji from Switzerland winning the other semi-final in 7.82, ahead of Dutch hope Nadine Visser, second in 7.85.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YSZPCUO4MNAZJMDNWHWW6ZMUOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996123},"content":"Lavin finished sixth in the final in Istanbul two years ago, and the 30-year-old from Limerick certainly won’t lack motivation to make the podium this time around.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D23OTACBOBEIRHUCHTV5ERVAOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996124},"content":"Earlier, both Mark English and Cian McPhillips endured a tense experience in their heats of the 800m, McPhillips bring tripped down the final backstretch of his race, and ending up on the track, as did Bartosz Kitlinsk from Poland in front of him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ILY7EOTWK6KSABMPJ5ZG4G7AQI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996125},"type":"image"},{"_id":"FWW72JSTLFGERPK3ITWWOORWGU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996126},"content":"Crucially, both runners got up to finish the race, McPhillips coming home in 1:57.35, and after Kitlinsk successfully appealed the contact which had earlier knocked him off his stride, McPhillips too was reinstated on appeal. Both runners will now take their place in the semi-finals on Saturday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZZBEKURQ2JBGBOL5YEYODFRBDU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741354996127},"content":"English is the only member of the team who has won medals at this level before, an 800m silver in 2015 and bronze in 2022, but rode his luck a little, still in fourth coming off the final bend, before a gap opened up and he finished second in 1:46.42.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Irish athlete suffers hamstring injury during warm-up for Friday morning’s heats"},"display_date":"2025-03-07T13:05:42.792Z","headlines":{"basic":"Sharlene Mawdsley withdraws from 400m heats at European Indoors","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"IQSIZ4SWLNFQ4PYSMR2TKL7MI4","auth":{"1":"235f2f5ca2b983e21bb205260a361cf7551abe759d6f57ef819bd10ed61e50d0"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/IQSIZ4SWLNFQ4PYSMR2TKL7MI4.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/07/sharlene-mawdsley-withdraws-from-400m-heats-at-european-indoors/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"743UCWT4NFFFDM53M37ZMAUW5I","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":206,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/69cd83cf-820d-476b-a431-15db9ef69e27/versions/1741302631/media/f24c84614ee833b28b07b2f87ff1cb18_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/06/shane-lowry-impresses-to-sit-just-off-lead-despite-difficult-conditions-at-bay-hill/","content_elements":[{"_id":"J7NRHKY6KNE6NDYFF3CURSAHEY","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/shane-lowry\">Shane Lowry</a>’s body language told the tale. The twirl of the club after impact, the wince on the occasional mishit, but more often a smile breaking out: for, in opening with a three-under-par 69 in tough conditions at Bay Hill Country Club in Orlando, the Offaly man played his way into contention in the Arnold Palmer Invitational, one of the select $20 million signature events on the PGA Tour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"IO7TVUMW25H6FLIVVTDPMDO5YM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry’s opening round left him in tied-second, two shots behind Wyndham Clark, the 2023 US Open champion, who birdied the 18th for a 67, while <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rory-mcilroy\">Rory McIlroy</a> – who played alongside Lowry in difficult, windy conditions on a firm course – signed for a 70, in tied-sixth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ER6HKZTRURABFMDXZ42EYCVZTQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The two amigos moved in tandem around Arnie’s Place, both moving into challenging conditions. Just five weeks ago, the pair had battled it out down the stretch in the AT&T Pebble Beach pro-am where McIlroy claimed the title and Lowry the runners-up spot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6SKOHA2NCVBLTFBMWK74C33QLQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"Again, both continued that form on a challenging course. As Lowry admitted of sitting in the locker room ahead of his warm-up and the round itself, “I wasn’t looking forward to it too much, the conditions were really tough.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZGMG2PYESBAXXJ34QO7HBAEQS4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Yet, when the questions were asked, Lowry had most of the answers. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"MQ2UYXNYHZCABLW26PASSHGBZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"A round that featured an eagle, three birdies and two bogeys moved Lowry, the world number 17, into a strong challenging position after day one. The eagle came on the Par 5 16th where his tee shot finished marginally off the fairway in the first cut and he then hit a wonderful approach shot from 195 yards, over the trees, to seven feet.","type":"text"},{"_id":"2WNSLTNJ3ZET7NKFZPXHB2BXZY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Lowry finished third in this tournament last year, behind Scottie Scheffler, at a time when he needed a sponsor’s exemption. This time, he is fully exempt into all the signature events and playing like a man on a mission to add to his tally of career titles. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"43JWL3JTF5DU3BTYDJEUIJKF7Q","additional_properties":{},"content":"With a new Srixon driver in the bag – he had 15 of them on the range pre-tournament – Lowry explained of the “tinkering” he has been undertaking:","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LDU4DU6KRHFPJQJT7IY2RDZ7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I think there’s something wrong with the driver I was using last week (at the Cognizant) for a few days. I used something different on Sunday and I used something different again today. So I don’t have a hundred per cent trust in that yet, but I did hit some really nice drives there towards the end, apart from 18. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"G3SGDAYSTVHY7MVG64PTKMOEVI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m pretty happy with what I have in the bag, I just need to be able to stand up on holes like 18 and trust myself to start it down the left and commit to that shot. As the week goes on hopefully I’ll do that and, yeah, you never know where it will leave me!”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NKDDVFP6TBHPTD6QSEWPKV66JM","additional_properties":{},"content":"For McIlroy, like Lowry, a closing bogey on the 18th provided a disappointing finish. In touching on the mindset the two friends are required to adopt when paired together in tournament play, McIlroy observed: “I think we both have to make a conscious effort to not make it too comfortable. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"PILDIYQLJJAPBFN6PS7V7FN2CY","additional_properties":{},"content":"“It’s like if you’re too relaxed, that’s not a good thing either. So we try to treat it as if it’s just any other round. I certainly talk to him more than I talk to some other guys out there, but you still have to try to concentrate, and especially on a day like today when it was so tough.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"JKKRQHXTNNG3DPVEBWPJJNSTTA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Meanwhile, in the Puerto Rico Open, also on the PGA Tour, Dubliner Max Kennedy – playing on a sponsor’s invite – shot an opening round of five-under-par 67 to lie in tied-20th of a first round incomplete due to fading light after a number of weather interruptions.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Philip Reid"}},"name":"Philip Reid"}]},"description":{"basic":"Offaly man in joint second after day one, with Rory McIlroy three shots further back in tied-sixth"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T23:05:26.656Z","headlines":{"basic":"Shane Lowry impresses to sit just off lead despite difficult conditions at Bay Hill","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"C645ZMV3ZEZ3IQQVE7JGY56UXE","auth":{"1":"377eb22ab5efdd216f4a2167b2e27347e415a80fa52d836e08dab8714994e76d"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/C645ZMV3ZEZ3IQQVE7JGY56UXE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/06/shane-lowry-impresses-to-sit-just-off-lead-despite-difficult-conditions-at-bay-hill/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"QKBTIPRICJBA3PKLBCFXEZENLY","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":322,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/04cc854d-5089-48d9-ba1f-0e94708c6a6b/versions/1741299252/media/db4a1e08245251f3f9dc402bc81dad74_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/06/sharlene-mawdsleys-searing-anchor-leg-still-leaves-ireland-short-of-a-mixed-relay-medal-at-the-european-indoors/","content_elements":[{"_id":"2OCECLFP7VFKXILAHAYCWZUUWU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685104},"content":"It felt as if the Irish medal prospects had truly changed once <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sharlene-mawdsley/\" target=\"_blank\">Sharlene Mawdsley</a> committed to the mixed 4x400m relay on the opening night of the European Indoor Championships, but her searing anchor leg wasn’t enough to bring them within reach of the podium in a six-team final.","type":"text"},{"_id":"3LY6LV4GGNFUPKCT4VFGZMGKAM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685105},"content":"With vast tracts of the sold-out Omnisport Arena in Apeldoorn cheering wildly for the home favourites, the Dutch quartet duly delivered gold, anchored once again by their superstar Femke Bol, the Irish finishing in fifth.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SZAHXORCWRHDVAUAMT5PV3XSRM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685106},"content":"Mawdsley was the only member of the Irish quartet which won European outdoor gold in Rome last June to take part, the Tipperary athlete also qualified for individual 400m heats on Friday morning. Despite running the fastest fourth-leg split of the lot, her 49.93 seconds notably faster than Bol’s 50.33, Mawdsley was simply too far adrift and left with too much to do to make any impression on the leaders.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XEBPTT57NJFMLEMLC4P6QFJDJE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685107},"content":"The Dutch won in 3:15.63, ahead of Belgium (3:16.19) and Great Britain (3:16.49), Mawdsley closing fast to finish in 3:17.63, within half a second of Spain.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KT7DJBNYIFB55EV26GQT5D7QJM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685108},"content":"“That first lap, I wanted to try close that gap, but I was probably a bit ambitious,” said Mawdsley, who took over the baton in sixth from Marcus Lawler. “Because when that home straight came, as short as it is, I did tie up a bit.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDGGFU5ULZFRFN5BLZLM6KYAWM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685109},"content":"“But I gave it my best shot, it was a challenge to come out here today, I’m out again tomorrow morning, but I’m proud of this team. People might say ‘Why did she do the mixed relay’, that will hinder me, or not be the best for my individual tomorrow ... but we did come fifth in Europe this time round, it’s nothing to be frowned upon, we’re still proud of that performance.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZDHCNIDVWZE5VERLC3WQXL6UJI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685110},"content":"There was no Rhasidat Adeleke this time, her focus firmly on the summer ahead. Things started positively when 17-year-old Conor Kelly ran a superb opening 200m, only to lose some ground at the break, before dropped back to sixth. Phil Healy, running her fifth consecutive European Indoors, briefly moved Ireland up to fifth, before Lawler also tried in vain to make up some real ground.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSGJ4UAN3NHSVAS4AKZNOIRF74","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685111},"content":"It made for a mixed night for the Irish, with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/sarah-lavin/\" target=\"_blank\">Sarah Lavin</a> producing the highlight with her cool and confident victory in her heat of the 60m hurdles, the Limerick athlete also clocking a season best of 7.93 seconds – ahead of Laeticia Bapte from France.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F5QGAJ7265ABXAQBQO3MENXZNQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685112},"content":"Lavin has made the European and World Indoor finals over the previous two years, and this performance puts her among the medal contenders, once she can get through the semi-finals.","type":"text"},{"_id":"SAD6FGW555AS3IBRQ6ITHVUMOI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685113},"content":"“Yeah, a good run, and huge credit to everyone behind me, because I haven’t had the easiest few weeks, to be honest,” said Lavin, who came through in the second half of the race, and clearly in front coming off the fifth and final hurdle. “Obviously I wanted to put out that performance, but I will have to go quicker in the next round.","type":"text"},{"_id":"D35FGJO7IJHVHDFZUJHTL7NNSA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685114},"content":"“I know I opened well this season, but I had a tricky time after that, so I’m happy. I love championships, love how immersive they are. There’s only a few of them a year and I love to maximise them. There’s no time to think in races like that, but I know that’s in me, and hopefully more to come.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"WTGWU2JAH5G75HERICAFHJ6ETQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685115},"content":"Earlier, <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/cathal-doyle/\" target=\"_blank\">Cathal Doyle</a> endured a tactical nightmare in his heat of the 1,500m, allowing himself to make some minor contact with Jakob Ingebrigtsen just as the race was hotting up after 900m and coming out the worse for it.","type":"text"},{"_id":"DKMCLUKXVJAQ3A5FALBKS3D5TI","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685116},"content":"Athletics Ireland did later submit an appeal, claiming Doyle was impeded, but that was dismissed by the track judges. Once Ingebrigtsen came through in the inside, Doyle appeared to lose focus, dropped his head before losing his stride, and suddenly his race was over.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XSTHEY2GQNDINIFMR5CI5RIUEA","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685117},"content":"“I just got clipped a little bit, shoved around a bit,” he said. “And by the time I got my feet back together, it took me five or six steps, everyone had gone by me, and you’re not going to make it back. Once that happened it was game over, I’m raging. It was probably bound to happen, you’re obviously just hoping it’s not going to be me. If I got knocked out, and knew I tried my best, I could live with that. But I didn’t really get a chance, and that’s disappointing.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"F2GCKPEUIBG3XPCPKBBSVC4JGU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685118},"content":"Ingebrigtsen, chasing a third 1,500m/3,000m double, took the win in 3:37.49, Doyle jogging home in ninth and last in 3:53.33.","type":"text"},{"_id":"S7DD5H3ESVA67PECDUUG6ABGDQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741298491462},"content":"Mark English is among those in action on Friday, the only one on the team who has won medals at this level before, 800m silver in 2015 and bronze in 2022.","type":"text"},{"_id":"K6Z3GOOHYJFKDBSCEY5CGFD6F4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741298491463},"content":"Irish in action: Friday schedule (all times Irish)","type":"header"},{"_id":"K65UX6CZBFA2LL72KQA45QLMMM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685120},"content":"<b>10:05am</b>: Mark English, Cian McPhillips: Men’s 800m – Round one","type":"text"},{"_id":"EKADTLNEQ5G4POTJ4BKDFER4TQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685121},"content":"<b>10:55am</b>: Sharlene Mawdsley, Lauren Cadden, Rachel McCann: Women’s 400m – Round one","type":"text"},{"_id":"ROY5WIOXVVFHZNDXOPONTFM54I","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685122},"content":"<b>12:45pm</b>: Sarah Lavin – Women’s 60m Hurdles – Semi-final","type":"text"},{"_id":"7FVU2CRO5JF4LFMLQATZUTWDKY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741298491467},"content":"<b>6:58pm</b>: Women’s 400m – Semi-final","type":"text"},{"_id":"U7QWQBDHNFGGLBJOBOO6S4ZD2Q","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685124},"content":"<b>8:15pm</b>: Men’s 1,500m – Final","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZW7NPC5SI5BMTK5TA5IQAYJGIU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741297685125},"content":"<b>8:43pm</b>: Women’s 60m Hurdles – Final","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Sarah Lavin won her heat of the 60m hurdles in cool and confident style"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T22:08:59.501Z","headlines":{"basic":"Sharlene Mawdsley’s searing anchor leg still leaves Ireland short of a mixed relay medal at the European Indoors","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"7A3HJR6JYD2WVN6IXG3XA3HTKQ","auth":{"1":"262d9dfa575be58848ff121ff33a455b820553bd968fc3dedb83bf7897a5e318"},"focal_point":{"x":2631,"y":1135},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/7A3HJR6JYD2WVN6IXG3XA3HTKQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/06/sharlene-mawdsleys-searing-anchor-leg-still-leaves-ireland-short-of-a-mixed-relay-medal-at-the-european-indoors/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"DINOQOI2YNCCNDCLZWNSWTGYGE","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":339,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/6a7c931b-da35-4477-a2ce-06ca181a8392/versions/1741289479/media/22106537033e2cf4ab91ec2191ed33ca_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/06/happy-90th-birthday-ronnie-delany-from-wicklows-fields-to-olympic-gold/","content_elements":[{"_id":"FJQRS7ELKNA4HHFYOQP5SJO5XE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Among the early influences on the life of <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ronnie-delany/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/ronnie-delany/\">Ronnie Delany</a> was the open space and the Avoca river that flowed behind the house where he was born at Ferrybank in Arklow on March 6th, 1935, giving him an appreciation for the simple freedoms he later associated with <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/running/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/running/\">running</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZN4TBHMTLRCY5JONX7SZR4TQKQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The family moved to Sandymount in south Dublin when he was six, but Delany has never forgotten his Wicklow roots. Nor has Wicklow, and the house where he was born 90 years ago today is recognised by a commemorative plaque outside, erected by Arklow Chamber of Commerce in 2001, with the brief inscription: “Birthplace of Ronnie Delany, Olympic Gold Medallist 1,500 metres Melbourne 1956.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"NH36NGKKTBAB3M2E4MF7STFYII","additional_properties":{},"content":"Delany is still remembered around the world because of that Olympic victory. In 2006, to coincide with the 50th anniversary of his Melbourne triumph, he was granted the Freedom of Dublin, the city he still calls home. Arklow has since added a statue and Delany Park, also named in his honour.","type":"text"},{"_id":"TSENLXPF6NCHHH6YDMCFHECDJM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“All my life I have been proud of my origins in Co Wicklow,” Delany wrote in his book Staying The Distance, published in 2006. “Although the family moved to Dublin my mother and I, in particular, maintained close links with friends in the Arklow and Avoca areas.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"4V5NJLZRNZ77DDMUECKX4ICI74","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PLKBIKB7FVBYFP6XBWMZAXOXGE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Delany did also have Dublin roots via his mother, who lived near Leeson Street Bridge, and whose father was a publican at 8/9 Sussex Terrace in Dublin 4 − that pub now named O’Brien’s − and which all southsiders know will be jam-packed for the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/04/le-nouveau-crunch-ireland-v-france-is-a-rivalry-for-the-ages/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/2025/03/04/le-nouveau-crunch-ireland-v-france-is-a-rivalry-for-the-ages/\">rugby on Saturday</a>.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6M2FFWSHEZFGDLOOAMC4XKW3IE","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was during his teenage years growing up in Sandymount that the seeds for Delany’s date with Olympic destiny were sown. His elder brother, Joe, was his first athletic role model, but his pursuit of greatness in sport always came from within. He abandoned a prized position in the Army Cadets (leaving his father “aghast”) and found a job selling vacuum cleaners door to door in Kilkenny.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EPGJTSS7YJG6HJ3AOZOBUF63RA","subtype":"twitter","type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"X6HBL7H6DNAJTDQW6KIK5OEXDE","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I would train every day in James Park, a sort of agricultural place,” Delany told this newspaper in 2006. “Stripping in a barn. My company were sheep and bullocks. And I’d say even they were amazed. ‘What is this mad person doing?’ And there was a sort of madness to the whole thing, in a nice way.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MXF234WPAND2TCJ3BKI4VZTJ7E","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The funny thing is I hated training. I was probably a little lazy, but I trained smart, and I brought a lot of my own views to the table. It was only when I went to America that I really believed I could be the Olympic champion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"G6NFB6ISOVGDJPGF46L7YTCBYM","additional_properties":{},"content":"“And I did love to race, had an insatiable appetite to win. Jumbo Elliott at Villanova was a great manager as much as a coach. The slogan in our dressing-room was ‘Win, or bust’. Jumbo never put his arm around you for finishing second. The only expectation was to win. I was a product of that environment.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y5G6GQREI5D27K2KM2DGPKCMM4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Delany closed in on his destiny with remarkable momentum. On June 1st, 1956, exactly six months before the 1,500m final in Melbourne, he became only the seventh man in history to crack the four-minute mile, running 3:59.0 in California. Later he was badly spiked in an 800-metre race in Paris, and raced just twice more that summer, unwittingly sparing his racing legs. Still, the then Olympic Council of Ireland confirmed his selection for Melbourne only at the last moment.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EOFXH4JHUBBS7LQW2OGT2JHJNE","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"PBVBLTNXTFHJDC2546M4LG3XOY","additional_properties":{},"content":"The story of his 1956 success at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, in front of 120,000 spectators, has been told many times, and in another interview with this newspaper in 2016, marking its 60th anniversary, Delany recalled the race in detail.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5VTGSW4RXFEMHKTQ63N64KRP5Y","additional_properties":{},"content":"“My only goal is to win,” he said. “I wasn’t thinking about second, or third, or running well. Two hours before the race, I’d turn on the nerves, to get the adrenaline flowing, then about an hour before became the cold, calculated, tactician.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"LFGRUQWWOFDDZKXLPMUPFIAHWE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The favourite, and not just for the Melbourne crowd, was the 26-year-old Australian John Landy, who had lowered Roger Bannister’s mile world record to 3:58.0. Britain had three finalists, including Brian Hewson, and while there was a sense any one of the 12 might win, Delany was the dark horse.","type":"text"},{"_id":"XRDPOFXCGRGHPA6WJDF3MAYBQQ","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"73PR6ACSWJB6RFDB4VIDOATXMI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The important thing is the shape of the race, to be in a position to strike, make the one move, to win. That was the only tactic I knew, learnt from my first coach Jack Sweeney, back in CUS in Dublin.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"IEXNOC6CQNG7HD7LOCEISZ4B7M","additional_properties":{},"content":"Still back in 10th with 350m to go, Delany made that final move with 60m to run, passing Hewson to win in 3:41.2, an Olympic record by exactly four seconds. The German Klaus Richtzenhain came through for silver, Landy for bronze.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KGV4VEJUQNFVDOPCAKDVRBFPB4","additional_properties":{},"content":"A series of Achilles’ tendon injuries later followed, and the 1960 Olympics in Rome were a disappointment; eliminated in the 800m, he promptly withdrew from the 1,500m: “I have no recriminations whatsoever about any of my disappointments,” he said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"USSLROYUHBGNTPMCY6ZXO2WXOU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Delany formally retired in the summer of 1961, aged 26, announcing it the same day as his engagement to Joan Riordan. “It’s true, in a sense, that I’ve never run since,” he said. “I couldn’t afford to run around Dublin, because anytime I did someone would be trying to race me. And I never wanted to be perceived as the Olympic champion showing off.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DMFZKZHOQ5EQHPYM46RYXHTKVU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Coming from such modest roots in Wicklow, there is no such thing as showing off. Happy 90th birthday, Ronnie.","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"premium"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Delany’s determined victory in the 1,500m event at the 1956 Olympics still inspires today"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T19:26:12.792Z","headlines":{"basic":"Happy 90th birthday, Ronnie Delany: from Wicklow’s fields to Olympic gold","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"YXYUH2YFVBJCPESPYOD2C45CZQ","auth":{"1":"c3dd77a4d957f20e69474fae42d3f23c04fff5389d7c97122dcf94f25e47e65e"},"focal_point":{"x":2136,"y":1114},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/YXYUH2YFVBJCPESPYOD2C45CZQ.jpg"}},"subtype":"opinion","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Athletics"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/athletics/2025/03/06/happy-90th-birthday-ronnie-delany-from-wicklows-fields-to-olympic-gold/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/athletics","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Athletics"}}}},{"_id":"TVMMHC4RHJF5VECBFDQDS4OY54","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":157,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/8948/podcasts/988c4c30-635b-4279-8e91-21b1fce541e7/versions/1741272626/media/04b3bdb3cb6a2de64c3f299e5f60e9e8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/boxing/2025/03/06/katie-taylor-to-fight-amanda-serrano-in-madison-square-garden-rematch/","content_elements":[{"_id":"JFIVIEGQ7VAZ5LDNF5FUVGBZ5U","additional_properties":{},"content":"<a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/katie-taylor/\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/katie-taylor/\">Katie Taylor</a> will face Amanda Serrano in a rematch at Madison Square Garden in New York City this July.","type":"text"},{"_id":"EKWOKHVWS5DAPMHGWLOVCQ4ZTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"The Bray fighter first met Serrano in April 2022, making history as the first women’s fight to headline Madison Square Garden. Taylor won the bout on a split decision.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ETZGMY473NCZFPWGPO452ROTY4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Following the success of the first fight, there was quickly talk of a rematch, however it took some time to come to pass.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MFDDFR2L2NHP3M4B5ARL6K7TIA","additional_properties":{},"content":"Last November the pair finally returned to the ring, this time in Arlington, Texas. The result again went Taylor’s way, seeing her remain the undisputed super lightweight champion.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JOYX6SEXI5HDNGAX5DC4STHCN4","additional_properties":{},"content":"Taylor vs Serrano 3 will take place on Friday, July 11th, headlining Madison Square Garden’s first-ever all-women’s professional boxing card.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YXR4FQCOWFB63HUFUUVYN72TAE","additional_properties":{},"content":"The championship fight, which will be contested over 10, two-minute rounds, will be streamed live globally on Netflix.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MMURCIXUTVCCDD4PB4T6LIIFI4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m 2 and 0 against Amanda but it’s obviously a very special rivalry that delivers every time we step in the ring so I think it’s only right that we have the trilogy,” Taylor said following confirmation of the rematch. ","type":"text"},{"_id":"D7WXHBHDIJBRJG22QK4PDKAGF4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“The atmosphere for the first fight there was amazing and I’m sure it won’t be any different this time around. The numbers that got to see the last fight in November were incredible so hopefully those people will all want to tune in for the trilogy fight as well and we can deliver another great fight.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"DBRRBHCGBFAXPB22DPN73MG7TM","additional_properties":{},"content":"Of her 25 professional fights to date, Taylor has taken 24 wins, including six knockouts. Her only defeat came against Chantelle Cameron in May 2023.","type":"text"},{"_id":"5URLDVXB25FRXDBUV2FXQ24TFE","additional_properties":{},"content":"Unified featherweight world champion Serrano meanwhile has taken 47 professional wins (31 knockouts) to three losses and one draw.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZRKPPJ5KFRCGNHOLM7LY7KPZOI","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I promised my fans they would see this trilogy, and I’m incredibly grateful that we get to complete our journey where it all began – at Madison Square Garden, live on Netflix for the world to see,” the Puerto Rican said.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HEIKT3E2MBAVVJWLCFGJINOG5I","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m disappointed that Katie Taylor did not keep her word and make the trilogy 12 three-minute rounds, equal to the men.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"BJ4MNLHZRJFGLKSHV5MRY7I2F4","additional_properties":{},"content":"“This is a record-setting pay-day for both of us, and we owed it to the fans to honour the handshake deal we made. She didn’t,” Serrano claimed.","type":"text"},{"_id":"FLT4LCHGZJCTFNEQAG2FPNGR5A","additional_properties":{},"content":"“But make no mistake, every time we share the ring, it is war, and I know Friday, July 11th, will be the greatest yet because I will finally get the official W I deserve.”","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Muireann Duffy"}},"name":"Muireann Duffy"}]},"description":{"basic":"Fight to take place in New York on July 11th"},"display_date":"2025-03-06T14:22:24.303Z","headlines":{"basic":"Katie Taylor to fight Amanda Serrano in Madison Square Garden rematch","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"8948"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"3WXXLDPL2BDSZIN7T7TQWENTLM","auth":{"1":"de26e7c2d759f3dd93682d49b4d4ca7e12350536f9e2f5eb8b038391d4183b46"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/3WXXLDPL2BDSZIN7T7TQWENTLM.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Boxing"},{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/boxing/2025/03/06/katie-taylor-to-fight-amanda-serrano-in-madison-square-garden-rematch/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport/boxing","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Boxing"}}}},{"_id":"5EW5C2BPANDILI7SYHZ7M3EFRM","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":394,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/9fafe4a5-4c00-4b9b-9208-4ff5d11ffeb6/versions/1741207501/media/f9298cb170c4b4a6f36a10b2c15d9fb8_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/05/european-indoors-preview-irish-medal-hopes-looking-to-shine-in-apeldoorn/","content_elements":[{"_id":"QJV4T2SVDVDKFP7ZNIQRWSAYT4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824234},"content":"Such is the pressing schedule and demand of any indoor athletics championships that fortunes and failures can be quickly and easily flipped, and that’s only part of the challenge facing the Irish athletes in the Dutch city of Apeldoorn over the next four days.","type":"text"},{"_id":"HO6PLE3DSNAFBETZTEOA7H42L4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824235},"content":"Traditionally a three-day competition, the European Athletics Indoor Championships have morphed into four, Thursday evening’s opening session at the Omnisport Arena (live on RTÉ 2, 6pm to 9.25pm) also accommodating the mixed 4x400m relay, staged at this level for the first time as a straight six-team final.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KW6GS56GB5HNVEK2YWWYJMZFTY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824236},"content":"The team of 19 Irish athletes certainly arrived with plenty of medal-winning potential. The team came home empty-handed in 2021 and 2023, but this year four Irish athletes are ranked in top three positions among the final entries, based on European indoor performances this season. They are Sarah Healy (ranked second in the 3,000m) and Kate O’Connor (second in the pentathlon), with Andrew Coscoran and Mark English ranked third in the 3,000m and 800m respectively.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4ZZCLVGNHRFYVEKVMNUFYYZCYM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824237},"content":"English is the only one on the team who has won medals at this level before (800m silver in 2015 and bronze in 2022) and Ireland’s two relay interests – in the mixed 4x400m, and the women’s 4x400m, both straight finals – will fancy their chances. That pressing schedule, however, means the mixed event may be without any members of the quartet which won European outdoor gold in Rome last June.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MVTJF4JINBGYROVWT322YMBFHM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824238},"content":"There’s no Rhasidat Adeleke, as her focus is firmly on the summer ahead. Chris O’Donnell isn’t racing indoors this season either, and Thomas Barr is retired. Sharlene Mawdsley would normally be first in line for the anchor leg, but she’s also got to consider the individual 400m on Friday morning (10.55am Irish time), with the semi-finals also set for Friday evening (6.58pm).","type":"text"},{"_id":"WITBJSIHAG4DRRM7MGSYGDQHNE","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824239},"type":"image"},{"_id":"H6CZ4NPLZJCZBGRPNVRU452ZE4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824240},"content":"Lauren Cadden and Rachel McCann also made the individual 400m on ranking quota, further limiting the options, although Mawdsley might well be up the challenge and the prospect of another relay medal. Conor Kelly, 17, will bring fresh energy, his 46.54 seconds last month a national under-20 record, while Phil Healy will also step into the mix.","type":"text"},{"_id":"VUQXWB57TBFENPTZGHZ6ZCIGAA","additional_properties":{},"content":"What is certain is that the Dutch quartet which won Olympic gold in Paris last August will start as raging hot favourites, home superstar Femke Bol committing only to the relays in Apeldoorn to break up her winter training. Belgium, Great Britain, Spain and Czechia complete the line-up, although the better medal hope is likely to be with the women’s 4x400m on Sunday.","type":"text"},{"_id":"GYMQGFUOVBBG5P2QISRP535MXM","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824242},"content":"Several Irish athletes will be making their European Indoor debut, including Bori Akinola, the 23-year-old fresh from winning his first national senior 60m title last month, and Cathal Doyle, the 27-year-old from Dublin who can boast about winning a race at the Olympics. That came in Paris in the new repechage round of the 1,500m, where Doyle, after finishing ninth in his heat, usurped a field of mostly faster runners. He then ran a lifetime best of 3:33.15 in the semi-final, missing the Olympic final by less than a second.","type":"text"},{"_id":"YE3YHZBXZ5VGR4Z2TC3QIE45F4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824243},"type":"image"},{"_id":"V3XS6YMQ2ND2JEKXPJCSVPNZKU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824244},"content":"By his own admission something of a late developer, Doyle has also improved his times every season he’s raced, including over the indoor mile in Lievin last month, where he ran 3:53.18 to finish third behind Jakob Ingebrigtsen, who smashed the world indoor record with his 3:45.14.","type":"text"},{"_id":"KBBPVV4TXZAIXPG5IPXZHIQ2YU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824245},"content":"Ingebrigtsen is in Apeldoorn chasing a third successive 1,500m/3,000m double, having also won 3,000m gold in 2019 at age 18. Doyle is more concerned about making the final, Thursday’s heats sure to create fireworks.","type":"text"},{"_id":"UVZ27HTS5BBEPAULAYF6GTASI4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824246},"content":"Jakob Ingebrigtsen breaks world indoor mile record in France","type":"interstitial_link"},{"_id":"JURI23LSARDSDESBINCWIJ3DCU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824247},"content":"“You can kind of guarantee now that once you’re in a final that he [Ingebrigtsen] is in, it’s going to be a strung-out race from the gun,” says Doyle. “But at the same time you can’t turn yourself into a time-trialler, because you need to be getting out of the heat, which may not be as strung out and quick from the gun. But it certainly doesn’t make it any easier – you know he’s going to run the legs off you in the final.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"G2IQXDF44C6JSAGHXUSHYRRDOQ","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824248},"type":"image"},{"_id":"BZPM5H6SDVFMBETNBMEZRWGNMU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824249},"content":"Since Paris, Doyle has signed a professional deal with Nike, and the Clonliffe runner is now coached by Jon Bigg, whose training group is based in Brighton. “I think it’s more confirmation to myself that, okay, all the work I’ve done and the sacrifices I’ve made, it wasn’t all for nothing,” he says. “Other than that, nothing has actually changed, I’ve always taken the training and everything serious.","type":"text"},{"_id":"F4CY6MJVVJCE7GELRBR7DDDJO4","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824250},"content":"“But someone asked me after my first race does it feel better now that you’re wearing a Nike singlet? Because last year I felt like I had a chip on my shoulder, every race, running in my club vest. Mentally I still try to keep that attitude. Not that you get loads right now, it just keeps a chip on your shoulder, a bit more of a blue-collar mindset. I feel I run better when I have that kind of attitude.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"ALEQXC7NWZGI3J5FZE5UDW2IIU","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824251},"content":"<b>The Irish in Apeldoorn:</b> Sarah Lavin (60m hurdles), Sharlene Mawdsley (400m, 4x400m relay, 4x400m mixed relay), Phil Healy (4x400m relay, 4x400m mixed relay), Rachel McCann (400m, 4x400m relay, 4x400m mixed relay), Cliodhna Manning (4x400m relay), Lauren Cadden (400m, 4x400m relay), Arlene Crossan (4x400m relay), Sarah Healy (3,000m), Jodie McCann (3,000m), Kate O’Connor (Pentathlon).","type":"text"},{"_id":"Y7RWPXZ7AVEPVDA26CPWT7DM34","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824252},"content":"Bori Akinola (60m), Mark English (800m), Cian McPhillips (800m), Cathal Doyle (1500m), Andrew Coscoran (3,000m), James Gormley (3,000m), Conor Kelly (4x400m mixed relay), David Bosch (4x400m mixed relay), Marcus Lawler (4x400m mixed relay).","type":"text"},{"_id":"5UMYPYG6L5FFDB3KS2N3CVLEHY","additional_properties":{"_id":1741206824253},"content":"<i>Thursday schedule (all times Irish): Cathal Doyle, Men’s 1500m Round One, 18:55; Sarah Lavin, Women’s 60m Hurdles Round One, 19:50; Mixed 4x400m Relay, Final, 20:50.</i>","type":"text"}],"content_restrictions":{"content_code":"metered"},"credits":{"by":[{"additional_properties":{"original":{"byline":"Ian O'Riordan"}},"name":"Ian O'Riordan"}]},"description":{"basic":"Cathal Doyle hopes to make the 1,500m final against Jakob Ingebrigtsen"},"display_date":"2025-03-05T19:27:41.695Z","headlines":{"basic":"European Indoors preview: Irish medal hopes looking to shine in Apeldoorn","native":""},"label":{"audio_project_id":{"text":"5469"}},"promo_items":{"basic":{"_id":"OXLT4EU7EL7EVW5BB4TLOQWVOE","auth":{"1":"4132f81663348556c7085a3d7d477e0b578af088c7d470046e3d8a432a2ccf49"},"type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-eu-central-1.images.arcpublishing.com/irishtimes/OXLT4EU7EL7EVW5BB4TLOQWVOE.jpg"}},"subtype":"default","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"name":"Sport"}]},"type":"story","website_url":"/sport/2025/03/05/european-indoors-preview-irish-medal-hopes-looking-to-shine-in-apeldoorn/","websites":{"irishtimes":{"website_section":{"_id":"/sport","additional_properties":{"original":{}},"name":"Sport"}}}},{"_id":"TYBHRXCLQBE2BFU47GZ3DU4VMQ","additional_properties":{"audio_duration":309,"audio_url":"https://beyondwords-cdn-b7fyckdeejejb6dj.a03.azurefd.net/audio/projects/5469/podcasts/52618aac-9515-44a7-adf6-66fb17d8b4b2/versions/1741190348/media/2d28b827c5bcf9ee20e8746c1ebc736f_compiled.mp3"},"canonical_url":"/sport/2025/03/05/fearless-and-compelling-how-ethan-nwaneri-is-shaking-up-arsenal/","content_elements":[{"_id":"EEC7LNRFGFEENFFAXJH2NVGVVQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"“Again? Come on,” Mikel Merino says, with a look that gets across the “seriously guys” sense of it. But there is laughter, too, from the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/arsenal\" target=\"_self\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/arsenal\">Arsenal</a> midfielder cum emergency centre forward because he knows this is how it goes, how it has been for some time, pretty much every time he stops to speak to the media after a match.","type":"text"},{"_id":"4VEN5RXN7RGAXNUXUON64WNE24","additional_properties":{},"content":"People want to talk about Ethan Nwaneri; inside the club, outside the club. The buzz around the attacking midfielder as he tore his way through the youth ranks, having joined at nine, was palpable. During the 6-0 win at West Ham last season, the Arsenal substitutes wanted <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mikel\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mikel\">Mikel Arteta</a> to get him on, which he did for the final 13 minutes.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ALLOKGNI3RE7TEVAQU3LXHBCHQ","additional_properties":{},"content":"The previous season, Nwaneri had become the Premier League’s youngest player when he made his debut as an 89th-minute substitute in the 3-0 win at Brentford – aged 15 years and 181 days. That was Arteta showing him the pathway would be there for him.","type":"text"},{"_id":"MGRAQOGYCVBUNG5JX2VPBZCGUM","additional_properties":{},"content":"In Eindhoven on Tuesday, everybody wanted to talk about Nwaneri. The 17-year-old’s goal in his team’s 7-1 humbling of PSV in the first leg of the <a href=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/champions\" rel=\"\" title=\"https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/champions\">Champions League</a> Last 16 tie was a cracker, showcasing the purity of how he strikes the ball. As the first-time left-foot shot exploded high into the net, the goalkeeper, Walter Benítez, barely had time to blink.","type":"text"},{"_id":"JYI5JW4SONH4RHSAUPMMCBWVDY","additional_properties":{},"content":"It made Nwaneri, who played on the right wing, the third-youngest to have scored in the Champions League knock-out rounds after Bojan Krkic and Jude Bellingham. It brought his tally for Arsenal to eight. Only Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen have scored more goals – nine – for a Premier League club in all competitions before their 18th birthdays. Nwaneri celebrates his on March 21st, after which he will be allowed to get changed in the same dressingroom as his senior team-mates. At the moment, because of safeguarding reasons, he does so in a separate area.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZXDHFZKVIVHTFE7QLMPUN5O4OU","additional_properties":{},"content":"Rooney was in Eindhoven as a TV pundit and he saw plenty of other stuff to like from Nwaneri. There was the blaze away from Tyrell Malacia to set up Arsenal’s fourth goal, scored by Martin Ødegaard. And how about the run in the 55th minute, slicing up the middle of the pitch, bearing slightly left?","type":"text"},{"_id":"PLFHJ6LVFZASHKW3642JF6MJBE","additional_properties":{},"content":"It was trademark Nwaneri, pushing into the correct seams, the ball under his spell, the body shape perfect. The defenders were technically nearby, but at the same time they were far away, no hope of dispossessing him. It was as if he was teasing them. Nwaneri does this a lot. He would work Benítez with the shot.","type":"text"},{"_id":"L3TU7QTFJJAOL6DFQ7RFNBUIMI","additional_properties":{},"type":"image"},{"_id":"2VYJLTPFMRASBCEJZHY45WMWAU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I’m joking ... I won’t get tired of talking about Ethan,” Merino says. “He is so good, an unbelievable player. I have been saying it for a long time.”","type":"text"},{"_id":"SJHURVZ4VRFIPEEONAQYZDH7VY","additional_properties":{},"content":"Nwaneri has put his name in the conversation for England, as Thomas Tuchel prepares to pick his first squad on Friday week for the World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia at Wembley. And he has shaken things up at Arsenal to the extent that fans are wondering where he will play when Bukayo Saka returns to fitness. Because Nwaneri has to play. Arteta has mused, unprompted, about maybe using him as a false 9.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZQVYRJDJORF5HOGIRVY34FWYGU","additional_properties":{},"content":"What makes Nwaneri such a compelling proposition, first and foremost, is his technique, which takes in his ability to manipulate the ball in tight areas, his balance, how he is so quick to change direction on his dribbles. There is a rare footballing intelligence, the sound decision-making, an appreciation of the spaces. Underpinning it all is his attitude. Nwaneri plays without fear, with a determination to make things happen. He does not seek the safe option. He wants to be direct.","type":"text"},{"_id":"ZQXAS2HGWFFTPDWCCB5LJ75OZ4","additional_properties":{},"content":"It does not feel wrong to ask Merino about a comparison to Lamine Yamal, albeit the Barcelona and Spain prodigy is further along in his development. Lamine, who turns 18 in July, has 18 goals and 23 assists in 86 appearances for his club; three goals and eight assists in 17 games for his country. Merino, who is 28, played alongside him during Spain’s victorious Euro 2024 campaign.","type":"text"},{"_id":"6THIP5S2ZNEWLIOYYNBI5DYQTU","additional_properties":{},"content":"“I am getting older, it’s kind of depressing,” Merino says with a smile. “I used to be one of the youngest on the pitch and now, when I check the teams, I find that everyone is younger than me. But football evolves and nowadays players come up to the first team even more ready to play at the highest level. They have better tools to learn and it’s great to have these young kids.","type":"text"},{"_id":"BTJJP27HAJCBPP6UYWY3OZCMLA","additional_properties":{},"content":"“My role is now more of a teacher. I can show some of my experience to them and the good thing is they are keen to learn. 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