Dundalk triumph over Seagulls

Dundalk 1-0 Bray Wanderers

Dundalk took all three points in Oriel as they beat a tough Bray side 1-0 thanks to a Kurtis Byrne strike.

The two sides started well with chances from each side early on, Bray had a chance from Kevin O'Connor heading wide from a Kieran Waters corner and then Dundalk going close from Brian Gartland heading just over the bar. Richie Towell went close with a neat chip but went just wide of Darren Quigleys post and O'Donnell near caught Quigley out with a quick free kick that went just wide. 

Bray really should have made Dundalk pay before half time with Kieran Waters hitting the post and the cross bar on two occasions. The two sides went in at half time with things scoreless.

Two minutes into the second half Patrick Hoban sent Kurtis Byrne through with a nice through ball leaving him one on one with Quigley and despite Quigleys best efforts and getting a touch onto it Byrne's shot went firing into the empty net which put the Lilywhites 1 nil up.

Dundalk took good control of the game then and were looking to finish the game off but were unable to get a second. Bray had chances from Jason Byrne volleying wide and with Cherrie having to make some good saves from Byrne and Dempsey. Kieran Waters then cut in from Chris Shields and could have equalised for the away side but Cherrie came to Dundalks rescue. 

Stephen O'Donnell came close to putting Dundalk 2-0 up but for Quigley making a great save. Dundalk held out for  a vital three points to keep their title push on.

DUNDALK: Peter Cherrie; Mark Rossiter(John Sullivan 59), Andy Boyle, Brian Gartland, Chris Shields ; Richie Towell, Stephen O’Donnell; Darren Meenan, Kurtis Byrne(Francis McCaffrey 79), Jordan Keegan(John Dillon 70); Pat Hoban.

Subs not used: Tiarnan Mulvenna, Nathan Murphy, Vinny Faherty, Aaron Shanahan(GK)

Booked: O’Donnell(45+1)

BRAY WANDERERS: Darren Quigley; Dave Webster, Kevin O’Connor, Eoin Hyland(Dwayne Wilson 88), Niall Cooney; Dean Zambra, Gary Dempsey, Conor Early, Kieran ‘Marty’ Waters; Ismahil Akinade(Kevin O’Leary 78), Jason Byrne

Subs not used: Daire Doyle, John Mulroy, Ryan Coombes, Sean Hurley, Kevin O’Leary, Shane Redmond (GK)

Booked: Akinade(28), Cooney(54)

Shels off the bottom, as relegation battle heats up

UCD 1-2 Shelbourne (26-7-13)

By Aidan Geraghty @1895Aidan

Shelbourne moved up to ninth in the league and leapfrogged their opponents, UCD, last night with a 2-1 win against the Students at the Belfield Bowl. Seán Brennan and Dean Kelly got the goals for Shels after former Internazionale trialist Craig Walsh put the hosts in front.

The match started very quietly; Shelbourne controlled possession but didn't ever look like scoring. Lee Murtagh had a half-chance but Mark McGinley smothered the ball before he could find his footing. The first real chance of the game produced a goal, though. Craig Walsh was left in acres of space by the Reds' centre-halves and he punished them by sending the ball into the bottom corner. A beautiful strike to put UCD ahead against the run of play. Soon after, Walsh had another opportunity and he tried to do it again but Lee Murphy got down to tip it wide. The Shels rearguard had a lacklustre opening half hour but it had to tighten up to make a win possible.

On the stroke of half time, referee Seán Grant awarded Shelbourne a free kick after some pushing and shoving between Adam Hanlon and Mark Langtry. Both players tried to play on but Langtry threw an elbow towards Hanlon. The referee, to his credit, took time to consult with his linesman and he gave the UCD right-full a straight red card. Then, as the whistle was nearly due to sound for the interval, Seán Brennan carved open the UCD defence with a solo effort and he calmly placed it into the top, right corner and over the head of McGinley.

To start the second half, Shelbourne were in complete control. They made their intentions clear as, in the 53rd minute, Seán Brennan again carved open the defence with a splitting pass to Hanlon on the right wing. Hanlon then beat Seán Russell and Dean Kelly headed home from 6 yards to score on his return from injury, to the delight of the crowd who were now behind the goal. The College again gave the Reds an advantage in this match as James Kavanagh was said to have kicked out off the ball. For the second time, the referee didn't see it and his linesman pointed to his back pocket; instructing him to send Kavanagh for an early shower.

UCD, despite being down two men, made it a nervy finish for Shelbourne. They had a couple of corners and some half chances before Sean Grant blew his whistle when the four minutes of injury time had elapsed. For UCD, it's one step closer to the relegation zone and for Shels, it's the first time in months they've been out of the relegation zone. What will please Reds fans even more is the fact that Bohemians are now bottom and don't look like improving a whole lot.

UCD: Mark McGinley; Mark Langtry, Hugh Douglas (Samir Belhout), David O'Connor, Gareth Matthews; Craig Walsh (Cillian Morrison), Barry McCabe, Seán Russell, James Kavanagh, Robbie Benson; Dean Clarke (Thomas Boyle)

Shelbourne: Lee Murphy; Brian Shortall (Robert Cornwall), Pat Flynn, Adam O'Connor, Derek Doyle; Seán Brennan, Stephen Hurley, Glenn Cronin, Adam Hanlon; Dean Kelly (Darren Tinnelly), Lee Murtagh. Referee: Seán Grant.

Attendance: 602

OnTheSidelines' man of the match: Seán Brennan (Shelbourne): The Drogheda man caused problems for UCD all night. He started on the right wing but ended up in an attacking midfield role but regardless of position, his mazy runs and defence splitting passes accounted for both of his team's goals.

UCD vs Shelbourne

UCD vs Shelbourne (26-7-13) By Aidan Geraghty @1895Aidan

UCD welcome Shels to the Bowl on Friday night as a win for the away side would take them off the bottom, regardless of other results; a task that seemed impossible under previous manager Alan Mathews. Both sides picked up a good result last week as the Students drew away to Shamrock Rovers and the Reds beat Limerick 2-1 at home.

UCD were expected to struggle for goals after the departure of David McMillan to the northwest but that has not been the case and they could cause problems for Shelbourne whose first choice centre-half partnership are suspended.

Their opponents from the Northside of the city have found a new lease of life in their attack since the signing of Lee Murtagh and new goalkeeper Lee Murphy has also been in terrific form. John McDonnell's men are looking for three wins on the trot for the first time all season. They're breathing down the neck of Bohs who also moved on from an under performing manager last week.

TEAM NEWS UCD Injuries: Robbie Creevy (thigh), Mick Leahy (groin). Doubtful: None. Suspensions: None.

Shelbourne Injuries: Paul Crowley (hip), Garreth O'Connor (calf). Doubtful: None. Suspensions: Graham Gartland, Ian Ryan.

Prediction: UCD 1-2 Shelbourne

St.Patrick's Athletic vs Cork City

The league leaders return to league action live in front of the Setanta Sports cameras, as they welcome Tommy Dunne's Cork City to Inchicore. Kick-off is at 8pm

St.Pats
After their disappointing run in Europa League, The Saints were back in action on Tuesday night in the EA Sports Cup, but they were eliminated by Shamrock Rovers after extra time in Tallaght. Many Saints fans feel that without the distractions of Europe, Liam Buckley's men will be able to capitalize on their lead at the top, and deliver the club's first league title in 14 years.

The Saints are unbeaten in 7 at home, and have only conceded 4 goals in Richmond Park in the league so far this season.

Buckley reports that he has a full squad to choose from. Anto Flood, Greg Bolger and Ian Bermingham all return from suspension. The 53-year old Dubliner spoke to www.stpatsfc.com ahead of the game, and indicated that he was pleased with his sides performance in Tallaght

“I thought we played well on Tuesday against Rovers and were a bit unlucky not to get to penalties in the end. But we’re focused on Cork now and we’re looking forward to the game which should make for a good game to watch.”
Buckley also recalled about how Cork caused bother for many of the Dublin sides

“Any time Cork City come to Inchicore it’s always great as games between the two clubs are always big occasions. There’s a typical Dublin-Cork rivalry there and it goes back to those huge games between our clubs back in the late 90’s. Richmond Park was packed out for those nights and hopefully we’ll see a good crowd at the game on Friday''

Cork City
There was a familiar feeling for Cork City fans as they left Turner's Cross last Friday. They had just seen their side concede another late goal to throw away 2 more points,this time to Dundalk,  to add to the 11 that had been blown previously late in games.

Inconsistency has rocked the Rebel Army. They are unbeaten in their last 3 home games, two of which came against sides in the top 3, but this is a sharp contrast to their last two away games in the league. Against UCD and Shelbourne, the Leesiders could only score once, and conceded five, leading to a section of fans voicing their disapproval of manager Tommy Dunne

Cork's missing list doesn't show any signs of shortening . Defenders Kevin Murray (groin) and Darren Dennehy (foot) are ruled out through injury. Colin Healy (knee) is unlikely to be available, while Adam Rundle (virus) and John Dunleavy (knee) are also rated as doubts. Family commitments mean Denis Behan may miss out, while John Kavanagh is definitely ruled out for the same reason. However Shane Duggan will return having served a suspension.

Dunne told www. CorkCityFC.ie that he feels his side have a big performance in them, but will need to be at their best
“Pats have been the most consistent team in the league over the last two years. They were probably the best team we’ve played this year. Going to Richmond Park, you know the pitch will be perfect and it will be a good game of football.”

“We have to try and get a result. It will be a big ask for us, but I do think we’re capable; the group we have, on their day, can get a result against anybody. We were very good against Dundalk at times, and if we can marry all the sections of our game together, then I think there is a big result in us.”

This will be the third time in the last month that Cork will have been televised. Home games against Sligo and Dundalk were also shown on Setanta Sports.

Prediction:  Despite not winning in a month, St.Pats will be eager to widen the gap between them and second placed Dundalk. Cork put in a good performance last week, but I don't think they'll have enough to topple the Saints. St Patrick's Athletic 3-1 Cork City

Dundalk V Bray Wanderers (Oriel Park Kick off 7.45PM)

As the end of the second series of games comes to an end Dundalk host Bray Wanderers as they look to keep the pressure on St.Pats at the top.

Second placed Dundalk will see this as a perfect opportunity to go into the final series of games on a high and go into next weeks crunch tie v Shamrock Rovers hopefully on a high.
The seagulls ,however, will be hoping to get something from this to try get away from the relegation zone.

Last weekend seen Dundalk draw 2-2 away to Cork City due to a late equaliser from captain Stephen O'Donnell, where as Bray lost 3-1 at home to fellow strugglers Bohemians.

The last time both sides came up against each other was in May in the Carlisle Grounds with the Lilywhites coming out 1-0 winners thanks to Pat Hoban.

Team News:

Dundalk welcome back Richie Towell & Andy Boyle from suspension. 
Out inured for the Lilywhites are Keith Ward(knee ligament) and John Mountney(Ankle ligament) Dane Massey is a doubt.

Bray will have to do without the suspended Adam Mitchell while defenders Danny O’Connor (Achilles) and Shane O’Connor (ankle) are out injured. Kevin O'Connor retruns from his ban and new signing Stephen Quigley goes straight into the squad. Managaer Pat Devlin and assistant Eddie Wallace are both suspended for this and will have to watch from the stands.

Previewed by Daniel O'Connell

Preview: Bohemians V Drogheda United

Words: Shane Saunders
Twitter: @ShaneSaunders88

----

 Date: 26th July 2013
Venue: Dalymount Park
Kick Off: 7:45pm
Referee: Robert Rogers

It's all getting rather tight at the bottom of the Airtricity League these days and a win for Bohemians could see Drogheda dragged right into the mix in what could be the fixture of the week.

Mick Cooke's claret and blue army travel to North Dublin having not played in the league for 12 days. An exit from Europe and a 2-2 draw against UCD in that time will spurn on the Louth natives and would rather be looking forward instead of looking warily over their shoulder at the chasing pack.

Bohemians are coming off an exceptional win out in Bray last Friday evening and have shown signs that perhaps the fight is there within this young group of players to stave off relegation worries and will certainly look to push on from here.

With Owen Heary installed as temporary player/ manager, all focus this week has been coming from off the pitch matters. Roddy Collins' name has been mentioned a lot with regards the vacant managerial position at Dalymount Park but Owen Heary insists that the players are focused on the game only.

The home side are without the defensive trio of Derek Pender, Owen Heary and Luke Byrne who have all picked up suspensions. Ciaran Nangle is set to come in at left back for the Gypsies and recent addition Anto Murphy, is set to make his debut for the club.Midfielder Shane Murray (ankle injury) may not be available for Friday but a new option in midfield is recruit Stephen Doran (24), who has returned to his native Dublin after four years in the United States.

The visitors have some slight injury concerns ahead of the trip to Phibsboro. Alan Byrne, Alan McNally and Declan O'Brien are all doubtful for the game. Eric Foley is still out while Michael Daly is suspended.

The last time the two met was at Dalymount for the FAI Ford Cup fixture in May when the Drogs ran out 3-0 victors over a very poor Bohemians side.

A battling performance in the league however, saw the two teams share the spoils in an enthralling 2-2 draw.

---

An intriguing encounter lies in wait and Mick Cooke will be aware that this is now a different animal his side will be facing in Bohemians.

Prediction: Bohemians 1-1 Drogheda United

Waterford United -V- Athlone Town

Preview By Craig O'Sullivan

This Friday July 26th Athlone Town take on Waterford United at the Waterford Regional Sports Centre. This will be the third meeting between the two sides, with Waterford winning both outings 1-0. Athlone will go into this game looking to claim a clean sheet for the sixth game running. Athlone will also look to keep there unbeaten as they have not lost a league game since  the last outing between the sides where Waterford won 1-0 through a Paul Qulity goal. Athlone have been in good form of late closing the gap on league leaders to just a single point. It is also been said this week that Athlone manger Roddy Collins has been given permission to speak to premier division side Bohemians and Athlone are hopefully that they can retain Collins services for the remainder of the season at least. If Collins does leave for Bohemians it may put a dent in Athlone's promotion hopes and Collins may also take club top scorer Phillip Gorman to Bohemians after Gormans impressive goal scoring record this season.  Athlone have also added to players to their squad that may be available for the game. Eoin McCormack takes the step up from their Under 19's and Luke McCarty signs from Shelbourne Under 19's .Waterford also go into this game in form having only lost one game since the last meeting of the sides to league leaders Longford Town 2-1 where United had 10 men for the majority of the game. Waterford will also look to claim there third clean sheet in arrow. Waterford go into this game with financial problems but with the transfer of attacking player Jack Doherty to championship side Ipswitch in England. This may help to secure the future of the club. Waterford are without a few players for this game but welcome back Paddy Barret who is likely to go straight back into the team a long side Kevin O'Connor in the centre of midfield. Paul Qulity is likely to come back into the team and partner Conor Meade up front with Vicent Sullivan missing out through suspension.

 

Team news :

 

 

Waterford :

Injures : Michael Coady (knee), Peter White (ankle), Dylan Mernagh (ankle).

Suspensions : Vicent Sullivan.

Transfers : Jack Dothery sign for Ipswitch.

 

 

Athlone :

 

Injures : none reported.

Suspensions : Sean Byrne, Robert Clarke.

Transfer : Eoin McCormack, Luke McCarty both join Athlone.

 

 

 Stats :

 

Since returning to the First Division in 2008, Waterford United have not lost to Athlone Town in 19 games. Waterford have won eleven and there were eight draws. The sides have met 10 times at the RSC in those years. The most recent draw between the sides was only last August.

 

Athlone have not beaten Waterford in over 10 years.

 

The last eight meetings between the sides :

Athlone Town    0 – 1    Waterford United
 Waterford United 1 – 0   Athlone Town                                                                     Athlone Town    2 – 3    Waterford United
Waterford United    0 – 0    Athlone Town
Athlone Town    1 – 4    Waterford United
Waterford United    1 – 1    Athlone Town
Waterford United    5 – 1    Athlone Town
Athlone Town    0 – 3    Waterford United                                                  

 

 

 

In Waterford's last five league games they won three, drew one and lost once. They have scored eight and conceded two. (66.67% of the points available).

In Athlone's last five league games they have won four and drew once. They have scored eight and conceded none. (86.67% of points available).

 

 

There is an average of 2.1 goals between the sides in the last 19 meetings.

 

 

Clubs Top Three Goal Scorers :

 

Waterford : (12) Conor Meade (All scored with Cobh Rambers), (5) Ben Ryan, (4) Vicent Sullivan.

 

 Athlone : (11) Phillip Gorman, (6) Ian Sweeney, (3) Garbhan Coughlan.

 

Key Treats :

Waterford : Conor Meade, Phillip Dohan (Striker and Winger)

 

 

 Athlone : Phillip Gorman, Garbhan Coughlan (Both Forwards)

 

 

Match Officials :

Referee : A.Reale

Assistant Referees :  D.Keegan, M.Farrell.

Fourth Official  : S.Dunphy

 

 

Match Odds :

 

Waterford United win @ 11/10

Draw @ 23/10

Athlone Town win @ 5/2

 

 

 

Blog Prediction :

 

Waterford United 2-1 Athlone Town

World Matchplay Night Five Preview (24-07-2013)

After a thrilling session last night, the quarter-finals of the World Matchplay will be confirmed later this evening.

Andy Hamilton vs Ian White

The Hammer
The world number 6 demolished hometown hero Ronnie Baxter 10-1 in the first round with a 97.12 average. Hamilton started the match with a 104 checkout and finished the game with a 111 finish and had 29 ton plus scores in between.

Speaking after the game Hamilton said he thought Baxter would've been tougher

''Before the game I was expecting a 10-8, maybe even a sudden-death leg, I wasn't expecting to win so easily, but I finished well, punished Ronnie early on. I stuck to what I had to do on stage, and I've come out on top.''

Looking ahead to tonight's game The Hammer feels a repeat performance will see him through to his second quarter-final in a row

''I'm ready for Ian, it's going to be a tough game, I know that, but if I can do what I can do, I'm sure I'll come out on top''


Diamond

White also had a convincing victory in Round 1, taking advantage of Robert Thornton's doubles trouble, to record a 10-3 victory over the Scot. The experienced 42-year old took the first 4 legs and had a crowd-pleasing 125 finish in the middle session, which had even Thornton applauding

In a post-game interviews, White said that the good start was crucial to his victory

''The early start was the key to it, 4-1 in the first session, that's a good result for me. Them 125's nine out of ten times wouldn't go for you''

White said he was hoping for an all-Stoke clash in the next round

''"It will be nice to have a Stoke derby against Andy Hamilton next and I'm really looking forward to that."

Prediction:  Hamilton looked very good in his demolition of Baxter, and although Diamond will put up a fight, I expect the Hammer to prevail. Andy Hamilton 13-9 Ian White

Adrian Lewis vs Brendan Dolan

Jackpot
Lewis had a comfortable first round win over Ronny Huybrechts, winning 10-5, but that doesn't tell the whole story. The European Champion only averaged 86.94, but wasn't tested by the Belgian, and afterwards acknowledged  that he had won ugly, but remained confident for the rest of the tournament.

''It was an awful game. I expected more from Ronny, but I finished well, my scoring was hit and miss. I seemd to hit the 180's at the right time. I did my job tonight but I wanted to make a statement and I didn't do that. I'm believing in myself again and I'll be there or thereabouts at the end of the tournament.''

Lewis knows he'll have to raise his game for the Irishman.

''I'm in with a shout and I want to go on and win this now. I've got Brendan Dolan next and it's going to be a tough game, he'll try and slow the game down but I'll just play at my own pace and hopefully I'll do the job."

The History Maker
Dolan was involved in a nail-biter against Steve Beaton, and despite trailing 5-2, he took 5 legs on the spin, and a maximum in the last leg helped him to a 10-8 victory. The Fermanagh man hit 50% of his finishes and had 39 ton-plus scores over the 18 legs, including a 112 outshot.

"It was a very tough game and it was nip-and-tuck all the way," said Dolan. "Neither of us got into our flow or the way we wanted to play and it was a battle, so it's nice to come through and win when you're not at your best.

"To win like that against an experienced former World Champion like Steve Beaton can only do my confidence the world of good. There was nothing between us and I'm glad to get through it.''

''I try and make sure that nobody speeds me up, and I don't try and slow anybody down, last year I came here and got beaten by Andy Hamilton in the first round, but every player comes here to win it.  I've got a lot of confidence in myself and I know on my day I can beat the best in the world''

Prediction : Despite a poor first round, Lewis will raise his game. He wants to make a statement, and a comfortable victory over Dolan will do just that. Adrian Lewis 13-5 Brendan Dolan


Michael Van Gerwen vs Peter Wright
MVG
Mighty Mike held off a mini-comeback from 2005 champ Colin Lloyd, to secure his place in Round 2 with a 10-7 victory. The world number 2 raced into a 5-0 lead before Jaws took 4 of the next 5 legs, but Van Gerwen crucially broke Lloyd with an 85 finish, and sealed the win with a 14-darter.

''Colin's a brilliant player and he never gave up, so I'm happy to have won that match," said van Gerwen. "I'm really pleased to play so well in the first round because you always want to play well on this stage and I'm proud to do it.Winning the game was most important and I hope I can do well in this tournament.''

Looking ahead to Wright, the 24-year old is excited about the pace of the game.
''I like to play Pete, he's a fast player so I hope I can use that for my next game''


Snakebite
Wright knocked out the seeded Kim Huybrechts in the first round to continue his good run of form on the big stage this year. With the game level at 3 legs apiece, the Scot broke Huybrechts twice in a four leg spurt, to take a 7-3 lead into the second break, and the Belgian never recovered, as Wright took the match 10-4.

''The break to pull away was important'' said Wright. ''The past couple of times I've played Kim, my throw has sped up to his rhythm, so I've learned, and I played my game.''

Wright was in confident mood ahead of his second round clash
''I'll have to improve in the second round because Michael van Gerwen will be tough. I'll beat him. I will. I've learned my lesson (from the World Championships)

Prediction : This should be routine stuff for Van Gerwen, and Wright hasn't shown enough to me to suggest that he can beat the 2nd best player in the world. Michael Van Gerwen 13-5 Peter Wright


Jamie Caven vs Dave Chisnall

Jabba
Caven came out victorious against Fleetwood's Wes Newton with a brilliant comeback from 7-4 down to win 10-8. Caven (who suffered from a miracle comeback by Simon Whitlock in the Euro's)
hit only 2 180's during the match, but, importantly ,they came in the final two legs.

''I'm over the moon to win'' said Caven. ''Wes looked like he was going to finish me off, but a bit of self-belief got me through, I don't know where it comes from, possibly my wife and my family. I broke him at the right time. As soon as I got it back to eight-all, I knew I had to step in if Wes missed and I did that. It was such a battle and I'm so happy that I managed to get across that winning line first."

Chizzy
Chisnall overcame an emotional Paul Nicholson 10-8 in a thriller of a game. The St.Helens man twice fell behind, but took the final 3 legs to recover from 8-7 down. Back-to-back 140's in the last leg gave Chisnall his first win on the Blackpool stage.

"Paul didn't play his best game and I wasn't at my best, and it was a game where I had to scrap," said Chisnall.

"When I was 4-1 down I thought it was going to be like previous years here, but I dug in, pulled it out of the bag and I'm glad to get the victory.

"Now that I've won here, when I come back on Wednesday I hope I'll be a bit more relaxed and able to play my best darts."

Prediction: This one could go either way, and it wouldn't surprise me if it went to a deciding leg. I think that Jabba just has the edge, as he's been on a superb run of form this year on the Pro Tour Jamie Caven 14-12 Dave Chisnall


Quotes from www.pdc.tv and the PDC YouTube page

DARTS- World Matchplay Round 2 Preview (23/07/13)

After some brilliant ties in Round 1, The Winter Gardens in Blackpool tonight sees the second round of the World Matchplay get underway . Quotes are from www.pdc.tv

Raymond Van Barneveld vs Justin Pipe
The world numbers 8 and 9 clash at the start of the show, as Raymond Van Barneveld takes on Justin Pipe to kick off the last 16.

Barney:
The big Dutchman won victory on opening night, pwering to a 10-4 victory over Mensur Suljovic. He averaged an impressive 99.8, and had 3 maximums and a 121 checkout along the way. Barney looks like he means business this week, as he goes in chase of a first Matchplay trophy.

"I'm very pleased with the win and a 10-4 scoreline looks comfortable but it wasn't," said van Barneveld. Mensur's a very good player and he's played some really good darts in the last six months, so it's good to beat him.

"My average was pretty good for the first round and I'm pleased with that, and my finishing was good. I've worked hard on my doubles for the last two weeks since the European Championship, and it showed.

"I hit some important finishes, especially the 121 finish on the bullseye, and they're important because if you put the pressure on your opponent, it affects them.

The Force :Pipe will have something to say about that. He's aiming to reach the quarter-finals for a second successive year. The Taunton native overcame an injured Mark Webster in the first round, but didn't have it all his own way, Webster leading 2-0, only for Pipe to come back with 6 180's to win 10-4.

 ''Mark gave it his all and showed because he played really well and showed that for all the talk of his ankle injury, you throw with your hands not your feet!" said Pipe. "Rather than feel sorry for him, I had to go up there and do a job.

"There's no friends up there and your fighting for your family, and I took advantage. I'm hitting a lovely bit of form again and I can move on prepare for playing Raymond van Barneveld.

"It would be great to beat him and reach another quarter-final in the World Matchplay, but it's going to be tough."

The head to head record reads in Pipe's favour, he's the beaten ''The Man'' twice out of three meetings, however, none of these wins were televised.

Prediction : Over the longer format, and in the intense heat on stage, I expect the 5 time champion of the world to prevail, but Pipe will put up a fight. Raymond Van Barneveld 13-9 Justin Pipe


Simon Whitlock vs Kevin PainterOne of many tasty clashes in the last 16 as Simon Whitlock takes on Kevin Painter.

The Wizard From Oz
After losing his European Championship in Germany, Whitlock came into the Matchplay knowing he had a tough draw, coming up against ex-BDO World Champion Jelle Klaasen. Despite trailing by 5 legs at one point, the Dutch star clawed Whitlock back to 9-7, before a clinical 12-dart leg saw the Australian through. A win tonight would see the Aussie through to his second quarter final in Blackpool

Speaking after the victory over Klaasen, the Beard felt he deserved the win

"I thought I played really well and got a good result there," said Whitlock. "I was getting a bit shaky towards the end but Jelle took out two big finishes there and played really well.

"I've played really well for the last month or so and I believe this is my chance to win this tournament. There's no easy games but I'm feeling great and I was quite relaxed tonight."

The Artist
Painter was involved with a real battle against young Jamie Lewis, but a crucial 164 C/O helped the Ipswich native to a 10-7 win. Having been knocked out of both majors this year by Adrian Lewis, and lost to the Stokie in the European Championships last month, it will have been a relief for the former world finalist to be in the other half of the draw to the 2 time World Champion. Painter's best appearance at the Matchplay is the quarter final stage in 2010.

Painter was relieved to get through, and is relishing the match against the Aussie.

''I'm pleased to get through," said Painter. "I expected Jamie to play well and he did, and a couple of times I felt like I had him and he crept back and won a couple of legs, and he made me work hard for it.

"It's great experience for him and it shows the standard of the young lads coming through - I'm 46 now and he's the standard we've got to put up with!

"It will be good to be back in the next round and I'd love to stay here all week. I've been playing okay this year and I'm looking forward to playing Simon Whitlock."



Prediction: 13th meeting between the two, each player has 6 wins, and I expect 13 to be lucky for Whitlock. He's had the better year, but Painter will not give in easy. Simon Whitlock 13-7 Kevin Painter


Phil Taylor vs Terry Jenkins
It's a repeat of the 2009 final, as Phil Taylor looks to claim a 14th Matchplay crown, against Terry Jenkins, who is aiming to reach his third Blackpool final.

The Power
It was business as usual for Taylor, destroying Stuart Kellett 10-1 to book his place in Round 2. He had the highest average of the tournament so far, at 103.18, helped greatly by a 161 finish and 4 maximums. The 16-time world champ was disappointed with his exit to Ronny Huybrechts in the European Championship, but he responded in clinical style.

Taylor was happy with his performance but knows Jenkins won't be easy.

It's a great first round for me and it was more comfortable than I thought it would be," said Taylor, who now meets Terry Jenkins in round two on Tuesday.

"Stuart's a lot better player than he showed tonight - he beat me in a Players Championship a few weeks ago and maybe he had some nerves.

"I've prepared well and I'm happy to be through. My average of 103 was average really, because a lot of players are hitting those types of scores, but I know Terry will test me in the second round."

The Raging Bull
The world number 16 was comfortable in his win over best friend Andy Smith in the first game of the tournament. He hit the most 180's of the tournament so far, with 7 , and had a 29% checkout percentage. He famously beat Taylor 18-11 in the semi-finals in 2007, but lost in the 2009 final to The Power.

Jenkins said he changes strategy when he plays Smith.

"It's hard to play against your best mate and it's a shame for Andy, but I had to get up there and pretend I was playing my worst enemy," said Jenkins. "He's been playing some brilliant darts recently, so I'm chuffed with the win.

"He made a good start and I couldn't find my range, but when I did the 180s came for me. It was a good second half of the game, I played really strongly and that put the pressure on Andy.

"I'll go home and relax a bit now before the second round on Tuesday. I love the Winter Gardens, there's a great atmosphere in this tournament and I think that helps me play well."

The winner of this game will play either Van Barneveld or Pipe in the quarter finals.

Prediction : As impressive as Jenkins was against Smith, everything points to a Taylor win. Phil Taylor 13-6 Terry Jenkins


James Wade vs Gary Anderson
Match of the night for me, as two ex- Premier League champions go head to head.

The Machine
Wadey had a titanic struggle against John Part, after a middle session surge saw him come from 4-3 down to win 10-8. Hitting almost half of his checkouts, Wade will have been pleased. Having appeared in the final 5 times in the last 7 years, (winning only once), the left handed thrower says he enjoys the trip to the seaside town :

"I'm happy with that," said Wade, "I did enough to win tonight but it was like an unorganised first day at school for me - I probably made it harder for myself than I should have.

"In my eyes, it's the best tournament in the world and the most exciting tournament. I tend to relax a bit in Blackpool and I've got a great record here."

The Flying Scotsman
Anderson missed the Euros through illness, but showed no signs of it, as he showed glimpses of his brilliant best when he knocked out Mervyn King. So often his Achilles heel, Anderson took out over half of his checkouts, and combined with the power scoring, it was too much for King.

"At times it felt pretty good and the trebles were going in and the finishing was fine, but at the back end of the game I started to struggle a bit," said Anderson. "I was telling myself not to throw it away, and I got there in the end.

"My practice has been going brilliant, so if they can get a bit better on stage I'll be a lot happier. James is very steady and you know what you're going to get against him, so I'll have to dig in."

Prediction : Expect a high scoring game here, a possible match of the tournament. If Anderson can hit his doubles, I think he'll beat the world number 4. James Wade 11-13 Gary Anderson

NBA Regular Season Preview 2013-14

NBA Regular Season preview 2013-14

By Aidan Geraghty @1895Aidan

The 2012-13 NBA Season ended with the Miami Heat defeating the San Antonio Spurs at the end of an thrilling seven-game series in which the same team one two games in a row once (Miami: games 6 and 7). The big three of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh were taken to the wire by the Spurs, led by veterans Tony Parker, Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili. Entering the 2013-14 Season, Erik Spoelstra’s team are the favourites to complete their three-peat but they will face stiff competition from the Oklahoma City Thunder, the San Antonio Spurs and, new contenders, the Brooklyn Nets who are stocked with stars like Deron Williams, Paul Pierce, Brook Lopez and Kevin Garnett.

Now that we’ve gotten that unnecessary foreword out of the way, we’ll get down to business.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Atlantic Division

1. Brooklyn Nets (52-30)
2. New York Knicks (50-32)
3. Toronto Raptors (35-47)
4. Boston Celtics (32-50)
5. Philadelphia 76ers (22-60)

The Atlantic Division was, last year, tipped to be the strongest division in the NBA with 4 teams who had a chance of going deep into the playoffs. However, Andrew Bynum’s degenerative knees and disrespect to the city of Philadelphia meant that the Sixers finished with only 34 wins and 4 games out of the 8^th seed. This year, Brooklyn have strengthened through trades by adding veterans Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett from Boston to their two existing stars, point guard Deron Williams and center Brook Lopez. The Knicks, who lacked in defensive consistency last season, have lured Metta World Peace to Manhattan and the Celtics, despite getting younger and getting rid of the final 2 of the big 3, still have star power in Rajon Rondo and won’t be bad enough to be high in the lottery. Toronto has some good pieces in Rudy Gay, DeMar DeRozan, Tyler Hansbrough and DJ Augustin. They’ve also added Steve Novak to give them some minutes off the bench and they’ll get the 8^th seed. Philly traded away their only all-star (Jrue Holiday) to the Big Easy and are building for the future around Nerlens Noel in the middle. The fans in the City of Brotherly Love want the team to tank in order to obtain Andrew Wiggins (Kansas) in next year’s draft.

Central Division

1. Chicago Bulls (54-28)
2. Indiana Pacers (44-38)
3. Cleveland Cavaliers (41-41)
4. Detroit Pistons (33-49)
5. Milwaukee Bucks (30-52)

Last season, Derrick Rose didn’t play a single minute for the Bulls but they still managed to grab the 5^th seed and take Miami to 7 games in the Eastern Conference Semis. Luol Deng and Joakim Noah also had some injury issues last season and, with all 3 stars back, Chicago will take the 2^nd seed. Indiana have built a nice team without any real stars and almost won the Eastern Conference last season. They did all of that without point guard Danny Granger. His return, added with the repeated contributions of Paul George, David West and Roy Hibbert, should see them obtain a winning record again but a full strength Chicago team will prevent them from a repeat in the division. Cleveland got lucky with 2 recent #1 picks in the draft, they added Kyrie Irving (Duke) in 2011 and Anthony Bennett (UNLV) this year. They’re still an inexperienced team but they’ll have a .500 record and reach the playoffs. Detroit has signed free agent Josh Smith from Atlanta but Smith isn’t good enough to turn a whole franchise around. Milwaukee won’t be the same team this season after the departure of Monta Ellis.

Southeast Division

1. Miami Heat (63-19)
2. Atlanta Hawks (39-43)
3. Washington Wizards (31-51)
4. Charlotte Bobcats (24-58)
5. Orlando Magic (21-61)

Miami is on track to be considered one of the greatest teams in history when it’s all said and done, they’ll have no problem winning this poor division and taking the #1 seed for the second year running. Atlanta has lost Josh Smith through free agency but Paul Millsap and Elton Brand will get them out of this division. Washington is improving under the leadership of young point guard John Wall but they’re a long way from contention. Things are looking up for Charlotte fans, the organisation has had its request to change its name to the Hornets (in line with the original franchise in the city) approved, they’ve signed Al Jefferson from Utah and they’ve drafter Cody Zeller from Indiana. Orlando is still a bad team who relies on Nick Vucevic for production. Victor Oladipo will be a good player in the future but he won’t make an immediate impact.

Eastern Conference Playoff Picture

1. Miami (63-19)
2. Chicago (54-28)
3. Brooklyn (52-30)
4. New York (50-32)
5. Indiana (44-38)
6. Cleveland (41-41)
7. Atlanta (39-43)
8. Boston (35-47)

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Northwest Division

1. Oklahoma City Thunder (61-21)
2. Denver Nuggets (52-30)
3. Minnesota Timberwolves (43-39)
4. Portland Trailblazers (37-45)
5. Utah Jazz (27-55)

Oklahoma City probably would’ve won the Western Conference last year had Russell Westbrook not been injured. That’s not to take anything away from San Antonio, they battled well but the Thunder was a different team without its star point guard. He’ll be back this season and OKC will take the #1 seed in the west. Denver lost Andre Iguodala in free agency but Danilo Gallinari, Ty Lawson, JJ Hickson, Kenneth Faried and JaVale McGee will all contribute and Denver will reach the postseason comfortably. Minnesota suffered injuries to important players (most notably Ricky Rubio) last season and finished in last place. Expect them to push for the playoffs in 2014. Portland is an improving team who will go as far as LaMarcus Aldridge takes them. Utah lost both Al Jefferson and Paul Millsap to the Southeast Division this off-season and will finish in last place.

Pacific Division

1. Los Angeles Clippers (58-24)
2. Golden State Warriors (49-33)
3. Los Angeles Lakers (44-38)
4. Sacramento Kings (30-53)
5. Phoenix Suns (23-59)

The Clippers will be a team to watch this season. Chris Paul and Blake Griffin will be entertaining as ever and Doc Rivers has landed in LA after his departure from Beantown. The Warriors had a great year last year and Stephen Curry; David Lee et al will want to improve. The Lakers aren’t the force they once were, having lost Dwight Howard to the Rockets and Kobe to injury. They should make the playoffs but early elimination looms large in Hollywood. Kings fans will rejoice just because they kept their team, after the league blocked the proposed relocation to Seattle. That doesn’t mean it’s going to be a good year, though and 32/33 wins is their ceiling. Phoenix fans will wish they could go back to the mid-noughties when Jason Kidd, Steve Nash and Amar’e Stoudemire plied their trade in the desert. Now they have to settle for Goran Dragic.

Southwest Division

1. Houston Rockets (55-27)
2. San Antonio Spurs (50-32)
3. Memphis Grizzlies (48-34)
4. Dallas Mavericks (38-44)
5. New Orleans Pelicans (35-47)

Houston just added Dwight Howard to James Harden and if Howard plays like the Orlando Howard rather than the Lakers Howard, they’ll win this division. The Spurs are an ageing team but they still have tons of talent. Memphis has some weapons in Marc Gasol and Tayshaun Prince. They’ll reach the playoffs but they won’t top either of their divisional rivals. Dallas is an ageing team. Dirk, Carter and Marion are all shells of their former selves. However, the acquisition of Monta Ellis makes this a good starting five. New Orleans acquired Jrue Holiday from Philly and he’ll match up well with Anthony Davis to get a few more wins than last year.

Western Conference Playoff Picture

1. Oklahoma City (61-21)
2. Los Angeles Clippers (58-24)
3. Houston (55-27)
4. Denver (52-30)
5. San Antonio(50-32)
6. Golden State (49-33)
7. Memphis (48-34)
8. Los Angeles Lakers (44-38)

NFL Regular Season Preview 2013

OnTheSidelines’ NFL Regular Season Preview 2013

By Aidan Geraghty @1895Aidan

The 2012 NFL Season culminated with the Baltimore Ravens winning their second Super Bowl in the franchise’s 17 year history. Although the Ravens reached the AFC Championship game in 2011, the general consensus was that the Pittsburgh Steelers would return to supremacy in the AFC North and Baltimore would have to settle for a wildcard berth. However, Ray Lewis and Joe Flacco led their team to the promised-land in the former’s final season in the league after beating the NFC Champion San Francisco 49ers in New Orleans.

“Enough about last year”, you say? Alright then, let’s get down to business. As alphabetical order dictates, we’ll start with the AFC.

AFC EAST

1. New England Patriots (12-4)
2. Miami Dolphins (8-8)
3. Buffalo Bills (5-11)
4. New York Jets (5-11)

Nobody will be surprised to learn that Tom Brady and Co. are still top-dogs in the AFC East, despite the young-guns in South Beach starting to make some noise. The Dolphins have a bright future with Ryan Tannehill and Mike Wallace forming a dangerous quarterback-wide receiver combination but it will be another few years before they overtake the Pats for supremacy in the East. Buffalo have cut their losses with Ryan Fitzpatrick (now in Tennessee) after sustained mediocrity but CJ Spiller is still an explosive running-back and they drafted EJ Manuel from Florida St. to replace Fitzpatrick. The season won’t be a total disaster but they have to play the Patriots twice, the Saints and the Steelers so it’ll be another tough season for the tortured Buffalo fanbase. The Jets’ problems are well-documented with the Tebow experiment not working out but Mark Sanchez has some healthy competition in rookie quarterback Geno Smith and the return of Santonio Holmes from injury they should be able to get them 5 wins with teams like Oakland in their schedule.

AFC NORTH

1. Cincinnati Bengals (10-6)
2. Baltimore Ravens (9-7)
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (8-8)
4. Cleveland Browns (4-12)

After signing Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco to a long-term contract, the Ravens had to cut ties with some stars like Ed Reed and Anquan Boldin. Cinci may be the most improved team in the league over the past few years; Andy Dalton is making a name for himself under center and he has an ever-growing arsenal around him with names such as AJ Green, Brandon Tate and rookie Tyler Eifert. The Steelers are starting to get old and aren’t much more than a .500 team, Ben Roethlisberger and Troy Polamalu are both the wrong side of 30 and the latter missed a lot of last season through injury. The Browns found their quarterback last season in Brandon Weeden but they’re still a long way away from competing in this talented division.

AFC SOUTH

1. Indianapolis Colts (11-5)
2. Houston Texans (10-6)
3. Tennessee Titans (6-10)
4. Jacksonville Jaguars (3-13)

Andrew Luck brought Indy to the playoffs in his rookie season after the Colts were the worst team in football the year before. Expect the Colts to improve even more this year as Luck gets to know the league better and wins his first division title. Houston is still an exceptional defensive team and has offensive weapons in Matt Schaub and Arian Foster. They will win 10 games to get the first wildcard and the 5^th seed in the playoffs. Tennessee have acquired Ryan Fitzpatrick from Buffalo and they will be hoping a change of scenery will see the Harvard alum improve his game. Jacksonville is one of the worst teams in this league and will win no more than 3 games. They will have the number 2 draft pick. Again.

AFC WEST

1. Denver Broncos (12-4)
2. Kansas City Chiefs (7-9)
3. San Diego Chargers (5-11)
4. Oakland Raiders (2-14)

The AFC West is the worst division in football but in it is the best team in football. The Denver Broncos and Peyton Manning will win 12 games, rolling over their division in the process and getting the number 1 seed in the AFC. Every other team will be below .500. Andy Reid and Alex Smith have brought some life into Kansas City, who had the first pick in this year’s draft but they’re still not a playoff team. The Chargers are a mediocre team whose players don’t do a lot to help quarterback Philip Rivers. Oakland is an organisation in complete disarray and will have the worst record. That’s right, worse than the Jaguars!

So, the AFC playoff picture looks like this:

1. Denver (12-4)
2. New England (12-4)
3. Indianapolis (11-5)
4. Cincinnati (10-6)
5. Houston (10-6)
6. Baltimore (9-7)

Now, we’ll switch over to the NFC. Expect this to be a lot more competitive with the lower seeds in the playoffs being wide open right until week 17.

NFC EAST

1. New York Giants (10-6)
2. Washington Redskins (9-7)
3. Philadelphia Eagles (8-8)
4. Dallas Cowboys (8-8)

The NFC East is probably the most competitive division in the NFL. Therefore, it’s the hardest division to predict. Last season, Robert Griffin III led his Redskins past the reigning Super Bowl champion Giants to win the division in his rookie season. Then, he got injured in the wildcard round against the Seahawks and it’s unlikely that he’ll be ready to start the season. The extra break will give Tom Coughlin’s team the opportunity to get a headstart and take the division back to The Big Apple. Philly have replaced longtime coach Andy Reid with Chip Kelly, whose read option offense will confuse NFL defenders in the first few weeks of the season. However, Philly don’t have the roster for a winning season in this division and will have to settle for a .500 season. Dallas will also be stuck at .500 as Tony Romo will collapse down the stretch as per usual.

NFC NORTH

1. Green Bay Packers (11-5)
2. Chicago Bears (9-7)
3. Detroit Lions (7-9)
4. Minnesota Vikings (6-10)

As they have done for years, the Packers will continue to dominate the NFC North. The Bears’ O-Line will continue to hinder Jay Cutler’s potential. They will win 9 games but fall short of the wildcard. Detroit has the best receiver in football in Calvin Johnson who could score points all day but their defense is leaky and can’t they can’t outscore every team they play. Minnesota has Adrian Peterson but Christian Ponder is an awful quarterback and they’ll never be more than mediocre until they sort that problem.

NFC SOUTH

1. Atlanta Falcons (12-4)
2. New Orleans Saints (9-7)
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (6-10)
4. Carolina Panthers (5-11)

Atlanta will have the best regular season record in the NFC behind the arm of Matt Ryan. He has weapons such as Julio Jones and Tony Gonzalez from which to pick, so they should win this division comfortably. New Orleans will be a better team this season with the return of Sean Payton and they’ll take the second wildcard spot. Tampa Bay will be better defensively after acquiring Darrelle Revis from the Jets but they won’t challenge the big two in the South. Carolina is too dependent on Cam Newton’s running style but they lack a passer. They won’t raise any eyebrows this season.

NFC WEST

1. San Francisco 49ers (11-5)
2. Seattle Seahawks (10-6)
3. St. Louis Rams (8-8)
4. Arizona Cardinals (4-12)

The 49ers and the Seahawks both opened some eyes last season with scrambling rookie quarterbacks. Seattle reached the second-round of the playoffs and San Fran was beaten in the Super Bowl. Many are tipping Seattle to win the division, but I believe they are an overrated team who will win 10 games and take the first wildcard berth. St. Louis is an improving team and Sam Bradford now has some legitimate threats out wide. This division is too tough for them, though, and they’ll have a .500 season. Arizona has yet to supply Larry Fitzgerald with a good quarterback and until that happens, they’ll be a bad team.

The NFC Playoff picture will look like this:

1. Atlanta (12-4)
2. San Francisco (11-5)
3. Green Bay (11-5)
4. New York (10-6)
5. Seattle (10-6)
6. New Orleans (9-7)

Shels give survival hopes a shot in the arm after 2 home wins on the spin

Shelbourne 2-1 Limerick (19-7-13)

By Aidan Geraghty @1895Aidan

Shelbourne picked up their second league win in a row last night for the first time in over a year when they came back from a 1-0 deficit at half time to take all 3 points against a Limerick team that has been hot and cold all season.

The opening stages were very dull with neither side creating anything of note until The Blues took the lead after 17 minutes when Axel Bossekota got on the end of a deflection from David O'Leary and the Frenchman took advantage of the space he was given to put the ball in Murphy's net.

Shelbourne, attacking towards their fans in the Drumcondra End, didn't do much in the first half but they did have a chance to equalise when Graham Gartland's terrific header found the side-netting from Seán Brennan's cross to the far post.

The Reds nearly equalised again just on the stroke of half time. A mistimed header from Brian O'Callaghan was controlled by Derek Doyle, whose shot was saved by veteran goalkeeper Barry Ryan. Lee Murtagh looked like finishing the rebound but Ryan got across to make a fine double save. If it wasn't for Ryan's heroics all year, Limerick could well be in a relegation battle as opposed to their comfortable mid-table position.

The hosts equalised at the third attempt not long after half time. 'Calla' as his jersey reads, was at fault again as Lee Murtagh stripped him of possession. Shels' new-found talisman squared the ball to Adam Hanlon who placed the ball into the bottom corner.

Shels were in control of the game for the next twenty minutes or so, despite Lee Murphy being called into action once by Danny Galbraith. John McDonnell's men took the lead when Seán Brennan drove at the defence following a pass from Hanlon; the Drogheda native then pulled it across the box to Lee Murtagh who scored from 6 yards for his second goal in three games for his new club. Fans at the Drumcondra End were jubilant, as expected, but their celebrations were repressed by a violent Garda presence.

Limerick failed to make it a nervy finish for Shels despite having a few half-chances. Substitute Dean Kelly added salt to the wound by bringing the ball into the corner for the closing stages and after a prolonged injury time period, Alan Kelly blew his whistle to give the Dubliners their second win in a row.

Shelbourne travel to UCD next week where, if results go their way, they can move up to ninth while Limerick welcome Derry City to Thomond Park after the Candystripes' European exploits.

Attendance: 783.

OnTheSidelines' Man of the Match: Graham Gartland (Shelbourne): Nothing got past the 30 year old, who put in a solid defensive performance and could've scored too.

Old habits return to haunt Cork as Dundalk earn a point

Cork City's old habits returned to haunt them, as Dundalk escaped Turner's Cross thanks to a late goal from Stephen McDonnell .

The game got off to the perfect start for the home side after just 3 minutes, Ciaran Kilduff spectacularly scissor kicking into the top corner leaving Peter Cherrie stranded

Dundalk were shell shocked, and could've been 2-0 down on 17 minutes, when Daryl Horgan cut inside his man, and smashed a shot low against the post.


It was all Cork, and 4 minutes later they hit the woodwork again, again it was Horgan. Although this time it was the Galwegian's cross coming off the crossbar, but no Cork player was there to capitalise

A minute later, and the Lilywhites were level. Rob Rogers awarded a free, and the ball went to the far post, where new signing Brian Gartland rose above Dan Murray to nod into the bottom corner

The response was good from the Leesiders, Kalen Spillane having a shot cleared off the line on 31 minutes

Dundalk then thought they had taken the lead, it was again Gartland who looked to have done it again, but Rogers called a foul on Mark McNulty. Replays showed the defender had a case.


Francis McCafferey then blasted over the bar, and the half ended with both sides battling, Stephen Kenny would've been the happier of the two managers


Halftime : Cork City 1-1 Dundalk

6 minutes into the second half, and Dundalk should've taken the lead. McCafferey squandering a glorious opportunity when his shot was blocked well by McNulty

On 62 minutes, Horgan who caused trouble all night, broke into the box, and appeared to be held back by John Sullivan. Rogers agreed and awarded a penalty.

Daryl Kavanagh stepped up and blasted the penalty into the net, despite Cherrie getting a hand to it.

Dundalk responded by cranking up the pressure, earning a succession of corners, but couldn't find the equaliser.

Kavanagh then pulled a wonderful save out of Cherrie with a speculative 25 yard strike

Not to be outdone Darren Meenan tried his luck from 25 yards, but it fizzed wide

But on 89 minutes, it happened again. Stephen O'Donnell's header was flapped by McNulty, and the ball fell kindly for the midfielder to boot home against his old club, breaking Cork hearts

Fulltime : Cork City 2-2 Dundalk

OTS MOTM: Garry Buckley. Having been played out of position recently, the youngster put in a strong performance in midfield, and made some key tackles in defence as well.

Cork City vs Dundalk

Dundalk travel to Turner's Cross knowing a win will see them go second in the table, but they will come up against a Cork side looking for 3 home wins on the spin, live on Setanta Sports

Cork City
Having gone 5 in a row at home without winning, The Rebel Army have toppled Drogheda United and Sligo Rovers in their past two league games at Turner's Cross. Last week , however, they were controversially beaten by Shelbourne in Tolka Park. Daryl Kavanagh had a clear penalty overturned by the linesman, leaving Tommy Dunne furious.

Speaking to the club's official website, Dunne knows that his side are in a battle tonight:

''Dundalk are probably the in-form team in the league right now, so we know it will be a difficult game. We need to get a bit of consistency and stop conceding goals, and that will give us a chance to get a result. We had chances last week against Shelbourne, and there were decisions that went against us, but we have to try to ensure that outside influences do not dictate what happens; we have to try and pick up the three points through our own good play and good defensive work.”

City's injury list has shortened slightly, but they are still missing Kevin Murray, Darren Dennehy and Colin Healy. Danny Morrissey is a doubt, and influential midfielder Shane Duggan is suspended. But the Leesiders will be boosted by the return of two experienced defenders in Dan Murray and Danny Murphy, while Gearóid Morrissey has recovered from an ankle injury.

Dundalk
With Sligo Rovers and Derry City not playing this weekend, Stephen Kenny's men have the chance to cut the gap at the top of the table to a single point. They will be high on confidence after dominating Bohemians last Friday, Pat Hoban's hat-trick saw off the Gypsies, and put Hoban on top of the scoring charts.

Despite having the best away record in the country, Stephen Kenny isn't overlooking the home side tonight telling dundalkfc.com:

''The players have been excellent this year and every week they have given absolutely everything to the cause. This week we’ll have to rally round as we’re missing quite a few for the trip. It’s always a tough place to go in Cork.
“The goals have been well shared around the team this season which is always good. Away games are never easy but we’ve done well this year on the road. Cork City are a good side and it’ll be a tough game but we’ll go and give it our best shot.”

Kenny will have to plan without the services of Andy Boyle and Richie Towell as both are suspended for this tie.


Keith Ward is out for the rest of the season as a result of a cruciate ligament injury, while John Mountney (ankle ligaments) and Tiarnan Mulvenna (groin), are also set to miss out.
Dane Massey (knee) and Chris Shields (hip flexor) are rated as doubtful although John Sullivan should be fit to play despite limping off with a dead leg last weekend.


Stats
Both of these sides have only won 4 times at home this season. But it's Dundalk's away record that has them sitting 16 points ahead of their opponents.

Cork City’s first ever league game was on 16th Sept 1984 away to Dundalk.

Dundalk have only beaten Cork City once in their last 5 league games. That win came earlier on this season (also televised), when they beat the Rebel Army 2-0 thanks to goals from Mountney and Hoban.

Dundalk are looking to win back-to-back games vs the Leesiders for the first time in 4 seasons.

There is one ex-Rebel in the Dundalk team; Stephen O'Donnell had a spell at the Cross in 2009.

OTS Prediction: Dundalk's away form is excellent, and with City lacking confidence, I'm going for a victory for the Lilywhites.  Cork City 0-2 Dundalk

Shelbourne vs Limerick

Shelbourne v Limerick (19-7-13)
By Aidan Geraghty @1895Aidan

On Friday night, Shelbourne welcome Munster opposition to Tolka Park for the second successive week; Stuart Taylor's Limerick make a trip to the capital's Northside. Kickoff time in Drumcondra is 8pm.

The Reds had a hard fought win last Friday, they came out on the right end of a 2-1 scoreline at home to Cork City. There was some controversy, however, as replays showed Cork City should've had a penalty when Daryl Kavanagh was fouled in the box but Reds fans won't be feeling guilty as they were undone by an official in Drogheda the previous week.

Shels confirmed the signing of former Salthill fullback Jamie McGlynn during the week, to add to the signings of Lee Murtagh, Derek Doyle, Lee Murphy and Carl Walshe.

TEAM NEWS
Injured: Paul Crowley (hip).
Doubtful: Dean Kelly (hamstring), Robert Bayly (knee), Garreth O'Connor (calf).
Suspended: None.


For the Blues, it was a highly entertaining draw at home to Bray Wanderers last Tuesday night, 4-4 was the final score. The Limerick defence looked leaky and Ismahil Akinade took full advantage but Axel Bossekota and Danny Galbraith were dangerous out wide, so Johnny McDonnell will have to plan for the constant threat posed by their pace.

The Blues were idle last weekend and Stuart Taylor will be confident that the extra rest will give them an advantage over their opponents.

TEAM NEWS
Injuries: Stephen McGann, Jeffrey Judge (fibula).
Doubtful: Pat Purcell (ankle).
Suspended: None.

Trabzonspor Vs Derry City

4 year ago Derry City where knocked out of Europe by CSKA Sofia.
Thats was the last European fixture at the Brandywell

2013 Derry City have drawn Turkish side Trabzonspor. One of the best supported teams in Europe.
So sooner than the draw was made the  Trabzonspor fans trolled various Derry City facebook, twitter and You tube pages.

The Turks have a famous relationship with Drogheda United so the Drogs fans may those their Turkish brothers over their fellow LOI side
.
It will be a very tough game I personally would love a 0-0 draw and see what we can do at brandywell but this is football and anything could happen, they said we would get crushed by IFK Gothenberg in 2006 and look what happened their.

But still it will always  be great to have European football back at the Brandywell no matter who it is.

My Prediction for tonight is a 0-0 draw.

By Adam Quigley-Nixon

Sligo vs St Pats 14th of July 2013

St. Pats visited the Showgrounds on Sunday the 14th of July for a top of the table clash. This game was vital for Sligo to close the gap on the Saints to one point. However should pats have won they would have extended the lead to seven points ahead of the bit 'o red.

Supporters from both sides came in great numbers to create an ecstatic atmosphere on a perfet sunny afternoon in Sligo. The last time these sides met in the Showgrounds it was a memorable day as Sligo clenched the league title in a dramatic 3-2 win over the Dublin side.

The first real chance came in the 13th minute when Sligo's new signing Dave McMillan had his shot take a deflection and palm wide by Clarke. But Pats grabbed the opener in the 17th minute when a long ball caused a mix up in the Sligo defense which allowed Anto Flood through to finish excellently past the Rovers 'keeper. Rovers had a golden opportunity to draw level when Lynchs cross was headed straight at Clarke by Cawley from 3 yards out. No other major incidents to report in the first half, a yellow card for both sides with David Cawley going in the book for a clumsy challenge and Birmingham going in for the Saints. With Pats dominating possession and Rovers struggling to create chances the half time whistle was a relief for the home crowd.

The second half was a far different affair with Sligo gaining all the momentum, Dave McMillan with a nice solo run but his shot couldn't keep down. Maher was booked for bringing Keane down after a good run up the right wing, the free kick was whipped in by Ndo but deflected out for a corner. The corner was put in for Peers to flick on but Clarke was on hand to touch it out for yet another corner. On 72 Keane made another brilliant run and sent a cross in to Elding at the back post but his header goes over. Rovers almost gifted Pats the winner when a mis-kick from Peers allowed Bolger to run through but his attempted was saved brilliantly by Rogers.

All of Rovers momentum payed off in the 81st minute after a series of corners, a scramble in the six yard box was hit into the top corner by Evan McMillan, not the McMillan people were expecting i'm sure! With that goal and the ever increasing pressure rovers applied to the Pats defense the home fans were shouting for a winner while the away support were shouting for the full time whistle. On 86 Fagan came on for Flood who was booked for time wasting on his way off. 6 minutes added and the goal looked like it would come at any minute but unfortunately for Sligo the full time whistle came before it and the sides had to share the spoils at 1-1.

Rovers Teams: Rogers, Keane, Peers, McMillan. Davoren, Conneely, Ndo, Lynch, Cawley, McMillan, Elding.

Rovers Subs: Kelly, Henderson, Gaynor, Martin, Connolly, Dykes, Djilali

St. Pats: Clarke, O'Brien, Bermingham, Kenna, Price, Bolger, McFaul, Maher, Byrne, Flood, Forrester

St. Pats subs: Ryan, Kelly, Durrand, Hughes, Fagan, Gannon, Fitzgerald

Man of the match: Evan McMillan

Attendance: 3,180

Shamrock Rovers Vs Derry City Report

12th of July proved to be a bad omen to Derry City as they made the trip on the rocky road to Dublin to face Shamrock Rovers.

The last time these two sides met was at the Brandywell when Derry ran out 2-1 winners.

Derry where looking to bonce back after a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Dundalk at the Brandywell last week and should have took the lead when Paddy Kavanaghs shot from a cross from Barry McNamee when just wide of Englishman Richard Brush`s post. 0-0.

The hoops took the lead after 37 minutes when Sean O`Connor hit a superb shot into the back of the net, frustration all around the Derry City fans.

HALF TIME 1-0.

The second half began and Derry had a penalty when Derry`s newest singing Eoghan Osbourne was fouled by Billy Dennehy who was having a horrible night and Rafter made no mistake and scored to make it 1-1.

It did not last long however, Sean O`Connor who has always been a thorn in the side for Derry put vollyed the ball from 25 yards and made it 2-1 to the Hoops.

Shamrock Rovers had many chances to grap a 3rd but no avail and Derry had their cances as well but never troubled Richard Brush.

Full Time Derry are no on 2 losses in a row.

Shamrock Rovers 2-1 Derry City

By  Adam Quigley-Nixon

Shelbourne 2-1 Cork City

Shelbourne 2-1 Cork City (12-7-13)

By Aidan Geraghty @1895Aidan

Shelbourne showed some real grind against Cork City tonight to collect an invaluable three points despite being on the back foot for parts of the contest. Lee Murtagh picked up his first allowed goal for Shels and Darren Tinnelly scored off the bench for the 2nd time against the Rebels this season. Kalen Spillane picked up a late goal to make it a nervy finish for the Reds but City couldn't get a second.

It was indeed Shelbourne who had the opening chance of the game as Lee Murtagh got through on goal straight from the kickoff but his shot was straight at McNulty. Then, Cork went down to the other end immediately and loanee Ciarán Kilduff didn't trouble Lee Murphy.
Shels had a lot of possession in the opening half but Adam Hanlon had the only real chance as he headed wide from a free kick. Kilduff and Kavanagh caused all sorts of problems for Gartland and Ryan but the two centre-halves admirably kept the Leesiders away from goal.

Not much more than 15 minutes into the second half, Seán Brennan overhit a cross which was salvaged by Shels' Ian Ryan and Tolka Park erupted as Lee Murtagh found the net to put the hosts 1-0 up. What followed was a controversial moment. The home fans erupted again, this time in anger, as Daryl Kavanagh was awarded a penalty by Tomney despite diving in the box. However , Tomney's linesman corrected the decision and Kavanagh was booked for his offence.

Then, Shels doubled their lead; Dunshaughlin native Darren Tinnelly, who equalised at the death in Turner's Cross in April, buried the ball in the back of the net after Mark McNulty saved numerous Reds attempts.

Kalen Spillane made it a nervy finish when his header beat Murphy in the Shels goal as the crowd were reminded of Graham Cummins' header two years ago. However, Cork couldn't find the equaliser and Johnny McDonnell's men picked up 3 points that move them within a point of Bohemians.

Shelbourne: Lee Murphy; Brian Shortall, Ian Ryan, Graham Gartland, Pat Flynn; Adam Hanlon (Craig Mooney), Glenn Cronin, Stephen Hurley, Seán Brennan, Derek Doyle (Darren Tinnelly); Lee Murtagh (Dean Kelly).

Cork City: Mark McNulty; John Kavanagh, Kalen Spillane, Garry Buckley, Neal Horgan; Ian Turner (Adam Rundle), John Dunleavy, Shane Duggan, Daryl Horgan; Ciarán Kilduff, Daryl Kavanagh (Denis Behan).

Referee: Derek Tomney

Attendance: 805.

Dundalk V Bohemians - Preview

Date: 12/07/13

Venue: Oriel Park

Kick Off: 7:45pm

Referee: Neil Doyle

Tonight's Airtricity League encounter between Dundalk and Bohemians has major implications on both the top and bottom half of the table. The hosts can see themselves catapult to 2nd place tonight if Derry fail to beat Shamrock Rovers and if Dundalk win by a significant margin of goals. The Lilywhites are coming off an impressive late winner against fellow title hopefuls, Derry City last week and will be looking to push on to keep title hopes alive and well.

It's a polar opposite scenario for the travelling team. Having played admirably over the last two league games, Aaron Callaghan has a tough time in rallying his youthful troops each week. A despondent home crowd at Dalymount Park were left pondering the clubs future having largely dominated a Limerick side who denied the Gypsies a vital home win. A loss tonight would compound the misery even more and sets up a vital must win game against fellow struggling team, Bray Wanderers. Having said that, Bohs are an awful lot better on the road this season, so who knows what could happen this evening?

Dundalk manager, Stephen Kenny has taken an almost bust Dundalk to echelons most loyal Dundalk fans couldn't have envisaged. Some excellent signings have been key to the Louth club's success this season and new signings Brian Gartland, Jordan Keegan and Francis McCaffrey are set to feature tonight.
There are no fresh injury concerns for Dundalk who have a fully fit squad to choose from this evening.

For Bohemians, new signing Conor Murphy, who made his debut last week against Limerick is set to start alongside newly re-signed Dinny Corcoran who is making a second coming to the North Dublin club. Manager Aaron Callaghan hopes the partnership will result in much needed goals as he continues to tinker with his squad.
Owen Heary and Dave Mulcahy made their returns from the bench last week and will be expected to feature to give the back line of Bohemians a much needed boost with two of their most experienced players.
Ryan McEvoy and Ciaran Nangle both have ankle injuries and are expected to miss out.

The last time these two sides met, Dundalk beat Bohemians 2-0 at Dalymount Park with two horrendous mistakes coming from the Bohs rearguard.

It's a mouth watering clash and one both teams will be looking to win.

Prediction: Dundalk 2-1 Bohemians

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Shane Saunders
@ShaneSaunders88 (Twitter)