“Given the defeat in the Champions Cup final, it’s expected that the Leinster camp will be grappling with a strong sense of lost opportunities,” Gerry Thornley suggests. He claims that although this wasn’t the harshest of Leinster’s three consecutive final losses, the players will not be excused from the more profound psychological impacts. Owen Doyle, in his Whistleblower column, discusses some of the decisions that tipped the scales against them. The achievement of reaching three finals in a row is significant, but losing them all creates a sporting nightmare scenario. However, he questions whether Leinster was unfairly treated, noting numerous doubts in his notes regarding referee Matt Carley’s performance, particularly a dubious yellow card for James Lowe. But, in the end, the superior performance on the day won, despite the harsh result.
In Ballybofey last Saturday, Donegal triumphed when Tyrone visited. Michael Murphy sees a team that is full of confidence, possessing high motivation and unexpectedly advanced physical conditioning. Unlike Galway’s hurling team, which lacks clarity following their championship exit, Donegal shows a clear, unwavering belief in their path.
In other news, the shocking death of Grayson Murray, the American golfer who took his own life last weekend, is explored by Philip Reid. Amidst the continuation of the PGA Tour, it offers a sobering reflection on the importance of life beyond sports.
In football news, Damien Duff has reportedly encouraged John O’Shea to refuse the permanent Irish job if offered. He criticises the treatment of O’Shea, claiming they’re leaving him in limbo, unsure of his future.
Looking forward to the Euro 2025 qualifying matches against Sweden, both at home and away, Leanne Kiernan, the striker from Cavan, is equally enthused about her cow, Rosie, becoming a mother this July. With regards to horse racing, Brian O’Connor contemplates the feasibility of Aidan O’Brien achieving a noteworthy classic hat-trick. This begins with the running of The Oaks at Epsom this Friday, followed by the Derby the subsequent day, and culminates with its French counterpart at Chantilly a day later.
In TV projections, the third day of the French Tennis Open (Eurosport, 9.30am-10.30pm) follows a Monday that saw both Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray bow out in two straight sets each. It is evidence of time finally taking a toll on these two sporting icons.