1. #CHAMPIONS LEAGUE After their famous win over Barca last time out, Celtic were given a reality check in Lisbon last night.
The SPL champions went down 2-1 to Benfica after a nervy display. Record-chasing Leo Messi scored twice in Russia earlier in the evening meaning Barcelona advance to the knock-out stages while Neil Lennon’s side now have to beat Spartak Moscow at home and hope the Portuguese heavyweights fail to win at the Nou Camp.
Elsewhere, Roberto di Matteo is now under immense pressure as title-holders Chelsea were routed 3-0 by Juventus, meaning they’re now on the brink of a humbling group stage exit. Already through, Alex Ferguson say his side beaten 1-0 by Galatasaray.
2. #CHAMPIONS LEAGUE There’s plenty more action tonight of course. Manchester City welcome Real Madrid to Eastlands while Arsenal are at home to Montellier. We’ll go minute-by-minute as always.
3. #RUGBY It’s a down day for Declan Kidney’s side but we were at Ireland’s base of Carton House in Co Kildare yesterday ahead of Saturday’s Aviva Stadium showdown with Argentina.
It’s a good bet that Kidney will stick with the men that dominated South Africa for 40 minutes before squandering Ireland’s fourth half-time lead in nine months. Craig Gilroy featured prominently in training and will be pushing either for a spot on the replacements bench or a double promotion to the 11 jersey in place of Andrew Trimble.
The notable absentee was out-half Jonny Sexton who is being eased back into action following a groin strain sustained on Saturday while Eoin Reddan will resume training today. Keith Earls is ready for a real battle, he says.
Here’s how the session unfolded.
4. #GAA Minister of State for Tourism and Sport Michael Ring revealed yesterday that he is anxious to see a new three-year deal brokered with the GPA but due to funding reductions he did hint that the Government-backed scheme may have to be revamped. That means intercounty grants could be hit in next month’s budget.
5. #GOLF Northern Ireland’s Darren Clarke claims compatriot and world number one Rory McIlroy is ‘the current Tiger’ and will win many more majors.
