In the eyes of most golf enthusiasts, seizing three tournament wins in a season is a tremendous accomplishment. But for Rory McIlroy, this falls short of expectations. Philip Reid notes that though it may seem as though McIlroy has lost his winning touch, this isn’t the case. It’s just that more is expected of him than any other player. A slew of near-misses and close shaves have branded him as the sport’s “nearly man”. One such close shave that left a mark was his “meltdown” at the US Open in Pinehurst, an incident Nick Faldo thinks will continue to haunt McIlroy.
Leinster Rugby also experienced an unfortunate downturn last season, with a promising campaign ending without any trophy. This time, they are hopeful of a change in fortunes under their new backs and attack coach, Tyler Bleyendaal, as revealed by John O’Sullivan.
The contest for the Leinster number 10 jersey has also intensified, with Ross Byrne, Harry Byrne, Ciarán Frawley, and Sam Prendergast emerging as top contenders. Bleyendaal and Gerry Thornley also discuss this rivalry, comparing it to the uncertainty over Leinster’s pecking order back in 2008/09 involving Felipe Contepomi, Isa Nacewa, and Johnny Sexton.
In Gaelic football, after a long 92-day wait, Mayo has finally confirmed that Kevin McStay would continue as their manager. Gordon Manning comments on the various rumours that this delay sparked.
The article further hints at the anticipated results of Rory McIlroy’s “nearly man” year in golf, the future objectives of the Hurling Development Committee, additional news accents on Cristiano Ronaldo, and features Malachy Clerkin’s views on managers’ usual complaints about new rules.
In the world of football, Gavin Cummiskey was present at the Tallaght Stadium on Monday night to witness a last-minute goal by Graham Burke that boosted Shamrock Rovers’ aspirations for their fifth Irish league title in a row. Despite the lacklustre season, the reigning champions are only trailing the top spot by four points with Shelbourne leading, and five more matches to participate.
Gavin also updates on the FAI’s endeavour to expand training duration for the most outstanding 14 to 18-year-olds, supported by funds from the previously dissolved Emerging Talent Programme.
In another news, all eyes will be on Ryan Moore as he makes his initial appearance at the Listowel festival today. The entry of “the world’s premier jockey” has been foreseen by Brian O’Connor. Additionally, Brian shares anticipations for Ger Lyons’ Babouche for accomplishing a rare Group One double at Newmarket this Saturday.
Weekly TV Update: Australia leads the five-match ODI series against England 2-0 and has an opportunity to secure the series today in Durham (Sky Sports Cricket from 12.00). Further Listowel horse racing Harvest Festival coverage can be found on TG4 (2:25pm-6pm). This evening, Sky Sports will broadcast League Cup matches, including Manchester City against Watford (7.45), and Wycombe Warriors versus Aston Villa (8.0).