CorkIndependent.com Sport Feed http://www.corkindependent.com Fri, 08 Aug 2008 18:01:43 +0100 FeedCreator 1.7.2 http://www.corkindependent.com/images/M_images/joomla_rss.png http://www.corkindependent.com CorkIndependent.com Sport Feed http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2995&Itemid=90 Sport is part of life. Therefore sport is connected to politics, which is also part of life. And politicians have the further ability to ensure sport is a significant part of politics whenever it suits the will and the needs of the politicians. Thu, 07 Aug 2008 09:16:32 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2994&Itemid=90 Ever since Cork fashioned a win of epic proportions over Clare, hurling fans everywhere have been eagerly awaiting this clash of the two teams that have dominated the championship in recent times, but on Sunday, barring a draw, one of them will no longer have a say in the destination of the Liam McCarthy Cup. Thu, 07 Aug 2008 09:14:14 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2957&Itemid=90 Some of the biggest prizes in sport, including the Sam Maguire, Liam McCarthy, Heineken Cup and Magners League Trophy, were on display at UCC this week as the University welcomed back some of its past graduates to honour their outstanding sporting achievements over the past 12 months. Thu, 31 Jul 2008 09:13:35 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2956&Itemid=90 The Sports Capitol Programme has announced funding totalling €4.485 million for 84 organisations in Cork, including soccer clubs, rugby clubs, athletics clubs, boxing clubs, rowing clubs, sailing clubs and community / mixed initiatives. Thu, 31 Jul 2008 09:12:38 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2926&Itemid=90 It has been an interesting week. Padraig Harrington's win at Royal Birkdale grabbed as much media coverage as French President Nicolas Sarkozy's important crisis summit in Dublin did, and the further attention afforded to the plethora of sporting activities taking place around the country underlined the relevence of sport to the Irish public. Thu, 24 Jul 2008 09:23:21 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2925&Itemid=90 Hello punters:- The 1991 season began rather slowly for Frankie, with the withdrawal of the Aga Khan's patronage continuing to have a detrimental effect on racing in general, but on the Cumani yard in particular, with the result that Frankie's hitherto winning streak was brought to a virtual standstill. In spite of this, the young Italian had his first major success when he won the German Derby on the outsider Temporal, beating the hot favourite Lomitas in a close finish. Thu, 24 Jul 2008 09:22:09 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2902&Itemid=90 The current financial predicament pertinent to some eircom League clubs can appear worrying on the surface. In fact it is nothing of the sort. The march into full-time professional football was never going to be an easy one, and the consequent blaze of adverse publicity in relation to the few clubs that are in trouble is somewhat naive. Thu, 17 Jul 2008 09:19:05 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2901&Itemid=90 Hello punters! In doing this little cameo on the Italian Wizard of the saddle, Frankie Dettori, I was literally spoilt for choice, for the man's life, sporting and otherwise, was and is absolutely chock-full of incidents and unusual happenings, one of which was life threatening in the extreme. Suffice to say that I will, in this rundown, try to highlight some of the most important aspects of the qualities of this wonderful jockey. Thu, 17 Jul 2008 09:17:06 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2875&Itemid=90 Television is the travelling companion of all top class sport. However, the nature of television is not to provide sustanence and companionship for its fellow traveller, it is rather to utilise the partnership for its own nefarious benefits. Thu, 10 Jul 2008 09:29:27 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2874&Itemid=90 Hello punters:- I do remember reading in an old book a time ago the saying that, "new things succeed as former things grow old", and, over the years, have found it to be a very apt description for many of the ups and downs of everyday life. Thu, 10 Jul 2008 09:27:41 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2873&Itemid=90 The Gala Senior and Intermediate championship continue this weekend and with three good victories over Dublin Wexford and Tipperary the Cork senior teams will be looking to build on these successes when they meet on Sunday next in Galway. Thu, 10 Jul 2008 09:21:16 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2872&Itemid=90 Cork v Dublin All-Ireland qualifier Saturday Pairc Ui Chaoimh @ 5 pm Just a month after their defeat to Tipperary in the Munster semi-final Cork begin their quest for the All-Ireland title when they welcome Dublin as visitors to Leeside on Saturday and expectations that they will win to set up a meeting with Galway or Waterford a week later. Thu, 10 Jul 2008 09:20:42 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2846&Itemid=90 The exclusive Irish terrestrial rights for the UEFA Cup has been awarded to TV3. Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:03:17 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2845&Itemid=90 Hello punters:- Well, ever since the Epsom Derby, punters in general had been really looking forward to its Irish equivalent, which was run at the Curragh on Saturday last. The prospect of a mouth-watering renewal clash between New Approach and Tartan Bearer, who fought out a tight battle at Epsom, plus the expected improvement in Curtain Call and Casual Conquest, who were both close up in that Derby, was really something to look forward to, and a terrific race looked to be the order of the day last Saturday! Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:02:42 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2844&Itemid=90 After the extraordinary success of Euro 2008 winners Spain will quite rightly receive most of the accolades. However, this triumphant tournament is about much more than the Spanish team, or any of the teams competing for that matter. Thu, 03 Jul 2008 09:01:04 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2821&Itemid=90 Hello punters:- In recent years, Ascot, a la the Cheltenham Festival, has been extended to take in five full days, Tuesday to Saturday, for its annual rula-bula. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 09:11:14 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2820&Itemid=90 EURO 2008 has been a great success. In writing this on the day of the 1st Semi-Final I am obviously unaware of the countries contesting the Final, but irrespective of that the quality of the teams has been most impressive. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 09:08:28 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2796&Itemid=90 HELLO PUNTERS:- Over the last two years or so, the resurgence of the Newmarket stable of Henry Cecil has been one of the most pleasing developments in the racing world. This very talented trainer had been one of the leading lights during the eighties and nineties, when he racked up a string of big race successes, Group races and Classic races galore, which incidentally included two Epsom Derby winners, Slip Anchor ('85), and Reference Point ('87). Thu, 19 Jun 2008 09:46:08 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2761&Itemid=90 Most of you who will have met me at one time or another will invariably accept my suggestion that I am not in any way paranoid. I am not conspiratorially minded nor am I of the propensity to imagine for a minute that I am not in control of my life. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:02:14 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2760&Itemid=90 Following last weekend's bitterly disappointing ten-point defeat in Wellington, Ireland's undesirable record of having never beaten the All Blacks will continue for another six months at least. Thu, 12 Jun 2008 11:01:04 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2710&Itemid=90 What A weekend we have coming up. The 3rd round of the FAI Cup and the start of Euro 2008 combine to make it a busy few days. Indeed the three forthcoming weeks will provide us with some pretty amazing attractions over in Austria and Switzerland. Thu, 05 Jun 2008 10:32:47 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2686&Itemid=90 As a people we are great underdogs. Indeed, it may even be that Ireland as a nation offers the best available example of how to overcome enormous obstacles with pure grit, determination and honesty. Thu, 29 May 2008 09:46:41 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2656&Itemid=90 I am in London this week enjoying the hub. This is my favourite time of the year to visit this wonderful city. The quite gorgeous weather hints broadly at a warm summer to come and the inhabitants, emerging from their seasonal confinement, are starting to un-lace their personalities from the straight jacket of winter. Thu, 22 May 2008 10:18:17 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2655&Itemid=90 The 13th Heineken Cup Final kicks-off in Cardiff at 5pm on Saturday evening as three-time champions Toulouse go head-to-head with 2006 winners Munster. Thu, 22 May 2008 10:15:21 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2620&Itemid=90 With a little over one week before the 13th Heineken Cup Final kicks-off in Cardiff, the hype surrounding the whole event is beginning to build. This will be Munster's fourth appearance at this stage of the competition in the last nine seasons. Thu, 15 May 2008 09:34:05 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2609&Itemid=90 I watched three professional football games last week in Spain. One in Murcia in La Liga. The second in Torrevieja and the third in San Javier. I also found time to watch the Champions League Semi-Final's on Television and I also played a bit of ball with the grandson. What a holiday. Thu, 08 May 2008 10:05:20 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2608&Itemid=90 Warriors provide final test for Munster Toulouse clash Foley dilemma Scarlets Thu, 08 May 2008 10:03:56 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2563&Itemid=90 Over the last seven days, stock in the Munster brand has soared to an all-time high. Victory over Saracens at the Ricoh Arena last Sunday means Munster will contest their second Heineken Cup Final in three seasons at the end of May. Thu, 01 May 2008 09:31:38 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2557&Itemid=90 I have been travelling a fair bit lately across England. My new-found freedom from professional football has allowed me to avail of and utilise fully the time granted to me by events at Cork City last season. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:34:42 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2556&Itemid=90 This weekend Munster will look to take another giant step in their quest to win a second Heineken Cup in three seasons. Thu, 24 Apr 2008 10:31:33 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2508&Itemid=90 Last weekend's disappointing defeat away to table-topping Leinster at the RDS has all but ended Munster's slim hopes of capturing this season's Magners League. Coupled with the fact that the province is now out of the running for the title, coach Declan Kidney also has the added headache of the untimely injuries picked-up by half-back pairing Ronan O'Gara and Peter Stringer. Thu, 17 Apr 2008 09:22:33 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2488&Itemid=90 Hello Punters:- Looking back on last Saturday's Grand National Day, I wonder was it my imagination playing tricks on me, or was I completely mistaken, for the usual frenetic race mentality seemed to me to be missing from the betting shops, with no long waiting to get one's bet on, or indeed, no extended queues at the paying out end either. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:54:05 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2483&Itemid=90 The consequences of Munster's emphatic quarter-final victory against Gloucester last weekend have been far reaching to say the least. Thu, 10 Apr 2008 09:29:36 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2466&Itemid=90 On Saturday evening, in a hostile and all too familiar setting, Munster will take to the field in their tenth consecutive Heineken Cup quarter-final. Thu, 03 Apr 2008 09:34:40 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2443&Itemid=90 Hello Punter! Thoughts of the Aintree Grand National bring forth in most people a vast array of emotions and memories, caused chiefly I believe by the great uncertainty that the worlds greatest steeplechase throws up for everybody, year in and year out. Come Saturday 3rd. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:24:10 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2442&Itemid=90 With Leinster, Munster and Llanelli all recording comfortable victories last weekend, the chase for the Magners League is fast becoming a three-horse race. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 11:07:18 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2418&Itemid=90 I possess the belief that I am a very well balanced individual. Now, housed within that statement is an acceptance that I am also a flawed individual, and I hope my acceptance and admission of this fact encourages you to accept my initial statement that I am indeed a well balanced gentleman . Thu, 20 Mar 2008 09:40:50 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2417&Itemid=90 With Ireland’s worst Six Nations since 1999 now confined to the record books, thoughts quickly turn once again to the provincial sides and their respective fortunes in the Magners League. Thu, 20 Mar 2008 09:38:02 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2395&Itemid=90 For a little over eight months, the ominous signs of a decline in Irish rugby have been surfacing intermittently. The defeat at home to Wales last Saturday afternoon simply confirmed everyone's worst fears. Thu, 13 Mar 2008 09:24:09 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2372&Itemid=90 The start of a new season is always an exciting time. The sense of anticipation, the level of expectation and the love of ones club all combine to create an vibrant flow of enthusiasm that makes the opening fixture very special. Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:12:21 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2371&Itemid=90 With a Championship, Grand Slam and Triple Crown still on the cards, Wales arrive in Dublin in buoyant mood for this weekend’s RBS Six Nations clash at Croke Park. Thu, 06 Mar 2008 11:08:37 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2358&Itemid=90 Had a wonderful time in Egypt thank you. I wanted a period of contemplation and reflection and the desert in Sinai has provided such facilities for thousands of years for a wide variety of people from hermits to healers and meglomaniacs to messiahs, although I admit I probably fail the entrance exams for all the above. Thu, 28 Feb 2008 15:14:17 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2357&Itemid=90 Munster entering critical period Thanks to a narrow four-point victory against Edinburgh Rugby a fortnight ago, Munster’s bid for Magners League glory remains firmly on track. Thu, 28 Feb 2008 15:09:07 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2339&Itemid=90 John Gardiner; Seán Healy, Managing Director, Sales Business Banking, Ulster Bank; GAA President Nickey Brennan; and Seán Óg Ó hAilpín; at the launch of the Ulster Bank Fitzgibbon Cup at host venue Cork Institute of Technology Thu, 21 Feb 2008 13:12:10 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2331&Itemid=90 Performance levels must improve The defeat to France a fortnight ago shattered any outside chances of Ireland securing that first elusive Grand Slam in over fifty years. As it stands, that dream must be shelved for another twelve months but hopes still linger on for a fourth Triple Crown in five years and a first Championship since 1985. Thu, 21 Feb 2008 11:16:25 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2330&Itemid=90 I have been in London for the past week or so. I must admit it is one of my favourite city’s and especially so at this time of year. Despite the cold nights the days have been warm and with spring just around the corner there is a quite discernable hint of optimism around and about the place. This sense of optimism is what I admire most about the Londoner. Those used to travelling the highways and byways of old England, as every professional footballer based in the country can verify , soon get used to the indigenous and quite diverse traits that abound around this quite traditional-minded country. Thu, 21 Feb 2008 11:13:59 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2303&Itemid=90 If preliminary reports are correct then Giovanni Trapattoni will be the new Irish manager by the time you are reading this column. I am not in any way surprised by this occurrence essentially because nothing is surprising anymore in professional football. Events during the past few months have eradicated totally any reservations I may have harboured in this context. Thu, 14 Feb 2008 10:52:12 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2302&Itemid=90 As the Six Nations takes a momentary respite, attention swiftly turns back to the race for the Magners League. Thu, 14 Feb 2008 10:48:50 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2284&Itemid=90 During my early years the consistent instruction to children was to "only speak when you are spoken to". Thu, 07 Feb 2008 11:14:46 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2283&Itemid=90 As this season's Six Nations tournament enters its second week, the warning signs are already ominous for an Irish side struggling to reach the required performance levels. Thu, 07 Feb 2008 11:12:21 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2251&Itemid=90 Time is one of the most precious commodities available. But because it is free, like all the best things in life, we take it for granted, all too often failing to utilyse it properly and then blame the ensueing rush on our "shortage of time". Thu, 31 Jan 2008 09:59:12 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2250&Itemid=90 There was much anticipation and excitement surrounding last Tuesday's announcement of the Irish side for this weekend's opening RBS Six Nations clash against Italy. Considering Ireland's disastrous form during the World Cup last winter, many thought that a time had come for some fresh blood to be introduced to the starting fifteen. Thu, 31 Jan 2008 09:57:13 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2243&Itemid=90 I am in Dublin this week participating completing the last session of the UEFA Pro Licence. The Pro Licence is the highest award for Coaching in Europe. It is obviously a prestigious award and even more so because it is the first one undertaken by the FAI. Thu, 24 Jan 2008 09:53:19 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2236&Itemid=90 With the final pool stages of this season's Heineken Cup now complete, attentions turn swiftly to the impending Six Nations and the opening fixtures in nine days' time. Thu, 24 Jan 2008 09:21:32 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2231&Itemid=90 Another new era begins for Cork City Football Club today. The appointment of Alan Matthews as manager opens a fresh page in the history of the club. The one thing a professional football, and those involved in it, must get used to is change. Change comes fast and furious in the moderm game and it reflects the world we live in. Thu, 17 Jan 2008 09:54:36 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2223&Itemid=90 This weekend's clash against London Wasps is one of the biggest games in Munster's Heineken Cup history. Victory by more than two points (provided they match their opponents with tries scored) will secure a passage into the quarter-finals for a record tenth season in a row. Thu, 17 Jan 2008 09:21:38 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2217&Itemid=90 At the moment I am studying. I am not studying the form of the horses at Cheltenham I have to say, but I am studying. It is literally years since I had to read books, take notes and prepare presentations, so it is an interesting and quite demanding exercise in many ways. Thu, 10 Jan 2008 09:53:51 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2206&Itemid=90 The quest for European glory returns this weekend as Round Five of the Heineken Cup kicks-off on Friday evening. Even at this stage of the competition, many of the early favorites are facing certain elimination. Thu, 10 Jan 2008 09:33:44 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2200&Itemid=90 I love change. This is just as well because my life has just changed quite dramatically. I like change for several reasons, but perhaps the core factor is that I have never allowed any alteration in the circumstances that surround me to in any way dislocate my great belief in what the future has in store for me. Thu, 03 Jan 2008 10:05:20 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2192&Itemid=90 With three huge games in the space of fifteen days, Munster face into the next fortnight knowing that the results from these encounters will shape their entire season. Thu, 03 Jan 2008 09:39:10 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2185&Itemid=90 What is your life all about? I know it is a corny question to pose to you but then again, it is the time of year for this sort of query. Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:45:14 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2184&Itemid=90 As 2007 draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the year that has passed and assess the prospects for 2008. It’s been a trying and extremely disappointing year from both a national and provincial perspective. Thu, 20 Dec 2007 11:41:56 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2171&Itemid=90 I wish my name was Alfie. At least then I would gain a modicum of ironic satisfaction in replying to the now constant question posed to me "what's it all about Rico". In truth at this precise moment in time I cannot give a definitive response to this annoying but thoroughly understandable question. Thu, 13 Dec 2007 12:38:08 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2158&Itemid=90 Save for Aurelien Rougerie's injury-time bonus-point-securing try for Clermont Auvergne against Wasps on Saturday afternoon, the results last weekend could hardly have worked out better for Munster. Thu, 13 Dec 2007 11:49:20 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2126&Itemid=90 One of the most eagerly awaited clashes of the season takes place in Cork this weekend. On Friday evening, Munster and Leinster go head-to-head in what should prove a keenly contested Magners League clash. Thu, 29 Nov 2007 09:53:37 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2112&Itemid=90 With Munster’s Heineken Cup campaign momentarily back on track, thoughts quickly turn back to the Magners League and Saturday evening’s game at home to Newport/Gwent Dragons. Thu, 22 Nov 2007 09:59:21 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2111&Itemid=90 I used to play for Gravesend and Northfleet FC. They were, and indeed still are, in the highest echelon of non-league football in England. “The Fleet” as they were, and still are, known, play in Gravesend in North Kent. Thu, 22 Nov 2007 09:57:43 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2110&Itemid=90 With Munster’s Heineken Cup campaign momentarily back on track, thoughts quickly turn back to the Magners League and Saturday evening’s game at home to Newport/Gwent Dragons. Declan Kidney’s side have enjoyed mixed fortunes in their domestic league so far this season. Thu, 22 Nov 2007 09:48:43 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2096&Itemid=90 This weekend sees the return of Europe’s premier club competition as the 13th Heineken Cup kicks-off at Ravenhill on Friday night with Ulster’s home game against Gloucester. Thu, 15 Nov 2007 12:17:32 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2095&Itemid=90 “In the midst of calamity there is opportunity”. In truth there is opportunity everywhere. One doesn’t have to await the arrival of chaos, calamity or any sense of disorder to seek the possibility of an opening. Thu, 15 Nov 2007 12:09:29 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2084&Itemid=90 Following last Saturday’s opening day defeat at the hands of reigning champions Wasps, Munster now face an uphill struggle to reach the knock-out stages of this season’s Heineken Cup. Thu, 15 Nov 2007 10:59:15 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2072&Itemid=90 “In the midst of calamity there is opportunity”. In truth there is opportunity everywhere. One doesn’t have to await the arrival of chaos, calamity or any sense of disorder to seek the possibility of an opening. Thu, 08 Nov 2007 10:21:07 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2065&Itemid=90 This weekend sees the return of Europe’s premier club competition as the 13th Heineken Cup kicks-off at Ravenhill on Friday night with Ulster’s home game against Gloucester. Thu, 08 Nov 2007 09:49:56 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2057&Itemid=90 CORK’S SWEET SEMI CORK City’s semi-final win in Dublin last Friday was sweet. To lose a semi final can be a distinctly demoralising experience. So near and yet so far. I understand fully the complete sense of anti-climax felt by the Bohemians players and management. Thu, 01 Nov 2007 11:18:22 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2045&Itemid=90 A week is a long time in rugby. Just seven days after guiding one of the worst teams in English history to a World Cup Final, England coach Brian Ashton came under a scathing attack from a number of his senior players. Claims of mismanagement, poor coaching techniques and a lack of leadership qualities were fired at Ashton from the unlikely sources of Lawrence Dallaglio and Mike Catt. Thu, 01 Nov 2007 09:43:23 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2040&Itemid=90 Following two defeats in their last two games, against Cardiff Blues and Neath/Swansea Ospreys respectively, Munster face a daunting away trip to Glasgow on Friday night as they bid to resurrect their dented Magners League hopes. Tue, 30 Oct 2007 14:50:45 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2013&Itemid=90 The first round of the women’s ESB Irish Senior Cup takes place on Saturday and should have seen four Cork clubs in action. Two of those Ashton and Bandon have each received a walk-over into the second round. Priorians were due to travel to Ashton with Cookstown visiting Bandon, however, both northern clubs have withdrawn from the competition. Belvedere have also withdrawn from the competition conceding their match to Omagh. Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:24:44 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2012&Itemid=90 This year’s ALL Ireland Schoolboys Championship will take place in Dublin next week with three Cork schools, Bandon Grammar School, Ashton Comprehensive and Midleton College, taking part. Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:23:43 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2011&Itemid=90 Although this seasons Munster Senior League Division 1 campaign is in its early stages the outcome of Saturdays big clash at Garryduff Sports Centre between Cork Church of Ireland and Cork Harlequins could play an important part in the destination of the title at the end of the season. Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:21:05 +0100 http://www.corkindependent.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2010&Itemid=90 I'm told that the All-Ireland winning Louth team of 1957 celebrated royally at the Four Seasons Hotel in Carlingford recently and they were joined by two of the Cork stalwarts who suffered the acute pain of an unexpected defeat when the teams met in the All-Ireland final all of fifty years ago. The presence of Dan Murray and Sean Moore was greatly appreciated and they have both told me that they thoroughly enjoyed a wonderful occasion. Thu, 18 Oct 2007 16:18:27 +0100