As Gerry Thornley accurately analysed, the parallels between Munster and Manchester United are more than just the red jerseys they sport. Both teams entertain with their on-field theatrics, backed by a fervent, albeit occasionally discontented, fan base. Their actions are forever viewed through the lens of their magnificent, though inconsistent, past achievements. This week, both teams saw significant departures – Munster’s Graham Rowntree and United’s Erik ten Hag. Thornley’s prediction suggests that it is Rowntree, the former England prop, who will be more fondly remembered from his tenure, unlike the Dutchman’s forgettable sting at United.
Recalling Rowntree’s journey with Munster, David Gorman highlights the ups and downs, while possible successors to fill his spot are being evaluated by Thornley. The supreme duo of Ronan O’Gara and Paul O’Connell seems an unlikely attainable dream. Meanwhile, Gordon D’Arcy feels empathy for Rowntree, asserting that in spite of their string of recent losses, there were signs that Munster was on the right track.
In other news, the Republic of Ireland is en route to a Euro 2025 qualifying play-off against Wales following a win over Georgia in Tallaght on Tuesday night. Witnessing the game was Gavin Cummiskey who observed a comfortable victory over Georgia.
In the world of Gaelic games, Seán Moran recollects Jarlath Burns’ belief from the beginning of his presidency in February that addressing the state of football and the future of amateur status were the GAA’s top challenges. While progress seems promising via Jim Gavin’s Football Review Committee for the former issue, the latter remains a formidable one.
Predicting the All Stars football selection for this year, Gordon Manning anticipates All Ireland champions Armagh to capture a significant portion of the team slots – as 11 of their players have been nominated.
It’s a 50-year anniversary for Muhammad Ali and George Foreman’s Rumble in the Jungle, witnessed by a global audience of a billion. Dave Hannigan pens a piece on the iconic event in Kinshasa, drawing attention to the extraordinary off-ring occurrences as much as the in-ring actions.
Monitor the tele: The new era under Ruud van Nistelrooy commences this evening, as he seizes control for Manchester United’s League Cup duel against Leicester City at Old Trafford (on Sky Sports +, beginning at 7.45). This tenure might conclude by the end of the match, given the circulating rumours about Rúben Amorim’s impending assumption of duties. Sky is also broadcasting Tottenham versus Man City live (at 8.15pm), with viewings of Aston Villa against Crystal Palace, Brighton versus Liverpool, Newcastle against Chelsea, and Preston versus Arsenal (with each kick-off at 7.30) available on their + platform.