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Saturday 18 May 2013

World Volvo Matchplay ; Quarter Finals

Stunning Views at the World Volvo Matchplay 2013
We take a look at a summary of what's to come and who's left in the World Volvo Matchplay.

We had top ranked player Graeme McDowell to play Nicolas Colsaerts. The two have met previously on two occasions both in the World Matchplay Series.

Colsaerts the 2012 winner
Colsaerts ahead 2 to nothing. Also, the big hitting Belgian is defending champion however it is played out on a different course each year.

We have a duo of South Africans in Branden Grace and Thomas Aiken. 

5 Europeans are left, Three have represented Europe in the Ryder Cup. Mcdowell, Colsaerts and Molinari. 

Remaining is experienced European and Asian tour winner Thonchai Jaidee. Scotland's Scott Jaimeson who came into the week on the back of 2/3 missed cuts.

Finally is Chris Wood. Wood has already had a win this season at the Qatar Masters. 

Qatar Masters 2013


Through to the semi finals tomorrow after win this afternoon is;

Thomas Aiken v
Thongchai Jaidee

Graeme McDowell v
Branden Grace

I would expect the final to be played out between McDowell and Jaidee.

McDowell has shot out of the blocks this week and his constant onslaught of birdie chances. He could be too hot to handle.

Jaidee over Aiken for 1 reason. Aiken has played a serious amount of holes and will be almost burnt out come tomorrow morning. 

Rory McIlroy ponders a change in management

World Number 2 McIlroy Management changes
Rory McIlroy current works number 2 who is win less so far this calendar season says that he wishes to leave Dublin based management firm Horizon.

McIlroy just 18 months ago left world leading "International Sports Management" headed by 'Chubby' Chandler.
International Sports Manager Chubby Chandler
Who had done a lot for McIlroy including a large value sponsorship made between himself and Santander who's logo covers his bag.

Their was speculation around McIlroy leaving Horizon to team up with Tiger Woods' management agency headed by Mark Steinberg. This rumour has been shot down following McIlroy's idea of joining up with his father and family friends to manage his own dealings.

This year alone Horizon have put together endorsements for Former world number 1 that amount to $20 Million Dollars annually. 

Conor Ridge boss of Horizon has "Refused" to comment on the situation. 
"We simply do not comment on industry rumours or speculation".

Fellow Nike athlete leads by example
McIlroy will be following in the footsteps of fellow Nike athlete Roger Federer who left IMG with long term agent Tony God stick and went out on their own.

In horizon McIlroy had a lot of say when it came to the ink on the page as the small 12 employee company that works with expensive lawyers and advisor's he really gets up close and personal with all sponsors that come through to his agents.

Rory would begin to work closely with family and friends brings his "Community" together even closer. 

Monday 13 May 2013

HP Byron Nelson Championship Preview

Guan on the PGA Tour
The story of the week will of course be 14 year old Guan Tianlang. The young golfer earned an invite following great performances at the Masters and the Zurich classic finishing in 58th and 71st respectively.

Defending champion Jason Dufner come into the week following results of T-20 at the masters and another notable result, T-62 at The Players. However he did have an 80 on the final day moving him rapidly down the field. Scoring, 71-67-72*80.

#Dufnering
With The Byron Trophy
Dufner has been in the media's limelight following the creation of a new trends that has caught on with other famous sports persons around the Us and Europe. "Dufnering" is a classic. #Dufnering


The Byron Nelson Championship is one of, if not the tournament on the Pga tour that raises the most amount of charity funding. Currently the figure stands at $121 million.

The record for lowest score is Sam Snead (-20.) 1957.

HP Byron Nelson
One 9 hole is created as a TPC stadium course through the use of the old 'las colinas sports club' facility/course.

The course sits at 7,161 yards. This ma not seems so long but it is. At a par of 70 and only two par 5's easy birdies are not common here. Hitting your GIR is crucial with previous winners hitting up to 85% of them.



What to watch for; 

It may be early on in the round, but the 3rd hole is awfully important for the overall result of the championship. 

Currently playing 523 yards this hole is a beast. Tree lined on a slight dogleg left this requires two big hits to reach the green and try to come away with your birdie.

The 7th hold is a polar opposite to the 3rd. Only twenty yards longer at 543 this hole is a severe dogleg and a hole where a birdie/eagle opportunity must be taken.

And with the winners purse of $1,700,000 things do get heated down the stretch. 

Enjoy this tournament and all the history behind Mr. Bryon Nelson as he really was great for the game of golf. This tournament is always enjoyable and emotive.

Edward Kennedy @_EdwardKennedy 

Sunday 12 May 2013

Cannon wins the 2013 Irish Amateur championship

Congratulations to Balbriggans Robbie Cannon who won the Irish Amateur at Royal Dublin today following  a three man play-off and sudden death.


Robbie with the South 2009

The play-off began with Graeme Roberson, Defending champion Gavin Moynihan and the eventual winner, Robbie Cannon.

With a score of Par. Bogey. Par. Over play-off holes 16-17-18 he joined Graeme Robertson in a Sudden Death hole playing the 18th. 

The three hole aggregate play-off was filled with excitement with penalty drops(Moynihan 16), putts just missing and some dropping. 

Cannon finished the four round tournament with a total of 295.

However, It did look like the tournament was all wrapped up by Jack Hume. Still on form from his play-off defeat at the Lytham Trophy just last week as he came into 17 with a two shot lead. Unfortunately for him he took a five and a six knocking him off the lead and out of a play-off position.

Jack Hume 

Robbie won with a par on the first sudden death play-off hole. Iron off the tee with 204 yards left, he struck it to 24ft and putted 15 inches past and made it back giving a massive fist pump celebration. 

Cannon sizing up the putt

It was Graeme Robertson who putt (no pun intended) up the fight against Robbie but pushed his 7 iron into the bunker right off the green and 40 ft away. He was not able to get Up'N'Down and contend with Mr. Irish Amateur Cannon.
Robertson celebrating his hole in 1 on the 12th

A great day for Robbie Cannon, another learning curve for Jack Hume who will obtain his maiden senior win  in the not so distant future.

Congratulations Robbie Cannon on your Irish Amateur Title.

@_EdwardKennedy 


Irish Amateur; Royal Dublin

Jack Hume took a one stroke lead into the final round of the Irish Amateur in the home of Irish Amateur golf, Royal Dublin.

Jack lost in a playoff for the Lytham Trophy against Albert Eckhardht just last week.
Jack Hume Lytham Trophy

Hume had a 74 after round three and went into round four sitting at +3. Today is a 36 hole final.

The best score of round 3 was a 71(-1) by Teemu Bakker, Finland.

The weather should stay relatively playable with Wind at 27-26 Km/h
However it will get colder throughout the final 18 holes. 14-10°C.

Mark Morrissey has made an early move currently -3/4.

17th Green
Other note able moves up the leaderboard come early on from;
Graeme Robertson -2/9
James Fox -2/4
Cormac Sharvin -2/4

A lot of quality golfers within a few strokes of the lead.


Live Leaderboard; 19:25
Last Group through 18

*1 Robbie Cannon (295)
The 18th Hole
•1 Graeme Robertson 295
•1 Gavin Moynihan 295

•4 Ewan Scott 296
•4 Teemu Bakkar 296
*4 Jack Hume 296

Threeman playoff being played over 16, 17, 18

#IrishAmateur
@_EdwardKennedy

17+18 playing tough all day!
Robbie Cannon

Moynihan 16) Tee) Left rough second)  Green in 2 and 10ft. Green) 1Ft. past = Level

Cannon 16) Tee) Right Rough 2nd) Green in 2 12ft. Green)1Ft. Past = Level

Robertson 16) Tee) Semi 2nd) Green in 2 25ft. Green) 8ft short, misses. = +1

Moynihan 17) Tee) Right off tee. Penalty drop plays third short right. 4th) Chips to 15Ft. Green) Misses, Taps in. 6. = +2

Overall +2
Cannon 17) Tee) Just over left bunker, Semi Rough. 2nd) Misses green left. 3rd) Chips to 12ft. 4th) Misses = +1
Graeme Robertson

Overall +1
Roberson 17) Tee) Right Semi 2nd) Onto the green, 40ft. Green) Leaves 4ft. Holes it. =Level
+1
Overall +1
Moynihan 18) Tee) Driver, Straight Down The Middle 2nd)  Onto green 20ft. Green) Misses. Taps in = Level

Cannon 18) Tee) Iron off the tee, semi. 2nd) Onto green 30 ft. Green) Leaves it dead. Tap in par. = Level

Roberson 18) Tee) Iron off the tee, fairway. 2nd) Onto green 20ft. Green) Stone dead = level

After 3 hole aggregate,
Cannon = +1   Robertson = +1   Moynihan =  +2

(Via Gui.Ie) TO CLARIFY - PLAY OFF IS TO DECIDE CHAMPION. PLACINGS THEREAFTER DECIDED BY COUNTBACK ON 72 HOLE SCORES - SO MOYNIHAN IS RUNNER UP AFTER BEING CHAMPION LAST YEAR.

Sudden Death. 
18th) Robertson ) Iron = fairway ) Leaves in bunker from 170. 3rd) Hits from 40ft, to 12ft. Putt for par. Green) Misses!! = Bogey
18th) Cannon ) Iron = fairway ) Leaves 30 ft from 204. Green) Putt for the win... 15inches past. For The WIn... CANNON HOLES!! 2013 #IrishAmateur Champion

"He's not the nicest guy on tour" Sergio Garcia

During the break of play during round three Sergio Garcia came out with the bold statement.

Sergio let his opinion of Tiger Woods be heard to the world following a spife between the players as a result of the crowds cheer.

Sergio was setting up to hit to the par 5 second in two and during his 3 wood swing Tiger picked a club out of his bag, a 3 wood also showing the crowd he would be going for the green in two.

Two Greats, One Prize
As a result of Tiger picking his club out the crowd adjacent to Woods cheered as they knew what was coming up. Unfortunately this was during the backswing of Sergio causing Sergio to lose focus and screw his shot away to the right.

During the post round interview Sergio said regarding Tiger, "He's not the nicest guy on tour".
"I think he must have pulled like a 5-wood or a 3-wood and obviously everybody started screaming. So that didn't help very much."

Tiger Splashes Out 
Sergio gave his opinion on how his personality is on the course.
"I think that I try to respect everyone as much as possible out there," Garcia said. 

"I try to be careful what I do to make sure it doesn't bother the other players."

Tiger has played with Sergio on six occasions following this mornings completion of play. All five other occasions tiger went on to win the tournament.

After round 3;
Garcia -11
Lingmerth -11
Woods -11
Palmer -10
Stenson -10
Wittenberg -10

Saturday 11 May 2013

TPC Sawgrass; Garcia putts his way to the top

Sergio Garcia has been playing lovely over the first 36 holes and is perched at the top of the leaderboard on -11. 

Following closely behind is Tiger Woods who sits on -10 following consecutive 67s on Thursday and Friday.

Garcia had an outstanding run of 5 birdies on the front nine from 2-6, he started with a bogey on 1 but stated that run and picked up another on 8. Out in 31 on Friday and in on 34 lead to a brilliant 65 on a day where Scoring was very good.

Other notables at the top of the leaderboard 

Leaderboard; 
  1. Garcia -11
  2. Woods -10
  3. Leishman -9
  4. Maggert -9
  5. Stenson -9
Defending champion Matt Kuchar starts the day at -7 after a 66 consisting of 7 birdies and 1 bogey.

The weather for the later starters will be calm and I'd expect the scoring to be good as a result. Its all down to the putter.








Sunday 5 May 2013

Quail Hollow Round 4

Only one player in the top 10 shot over par on Saturday, famous Phil. Phil at one stage was putting like I've never seen someone putt before, having made 42/42 putts from inside of 10 feet. Mindblowing.

Their is currently 9 players within 2 strokes of the lead coming into Sunday. John Senden made the biggest move up the leaderboard on Saturday so it will be interesting to see if he has two really quality rounds in him over the weekend.

Mickelson, the overnight leader on Friday finished off his round horribly yesterday with a double on 15 after smashing one way over the OB fence and a bogey on the very next hole.

Nick Watney double bogeyed the par 3 17th on his way to a -1 round. That had a total of 5 birdies.

Scott Gardiner who was in the final pairing on Saturday unfortunately shot a disappointing +4 round. Nevertheless a great experience for the 37 year old rookie.

Rory McIlroy struggled with his putting all day yesterday, and came in at -5 with a +1 round that had an eagle and a double. This course suited McIlroy this week due to the need to hit a flying carry drive as the fairways are damp. 
Plus, McIlroy is the 2011 champion here at Quail Hollow.

I could see Watney-Moore-Westwood shooting low on Sunday to take the tournament between them. 

My money is on Westwood.

Edward Kennedy  

Saturday 4 May 2013

Quail Hollow Round 3 live updates

Live updates will be posted below,

21:50 Streelman drops back to -7. Mickleson bombs one crazy wild. Provisional ball being played. Watney pars 15, failed to convert from a position just short of the green.

21:48 Watney nearly chips in but it runs 6 foot by. Streelman still at -7. McNeill for par on 15 from 8-10 foot.

21:43 McNeill chips the ball back to the fairway from the bushes. Par 5 15th. Watney second ends up just 10 yards short. Mickelson's ball goes deeper into the tree then McNeills ball. Not good.

21:38 Mickelson birdied driveable 14. Back up to -11. 15 is a lovely par 5. Reachable.


21:34 John Senden has the best score on the top leaderboard at the moment he's -5 on the day.

21:29 McNeill make a bird on 14 to move to -9. Mickelson played his 3 wood. Leaders on -10.

21:26 Ernst makes par on 15. McIlroy missed another short birdie putt and Mickelson waits on the drivable par 4 14th.

21:22 Watney begins 14 with the crowd going wild for Mickelson who chips in to 3 foot on par three.

I'll take this break in play to recommend you checking out the post on choosing a golf ball that suits you. 

21:19 Ernst goes for the 15th in two and has a snap hook that ended up in the crowd, short side of the pin, over a bunker! Risk reward.

21:16 Short Birdie putt on 12 missed by Watney. Mickelson missed his first putt inside of 10 foot this week! Still not human though! Two tied at the top.

21:15 after a great start, Gardiner has fallen away with a double bogey on 9 and is currently sitting on -5.

21:12 Mickelson just short of 12 in two, Chance to keep his Scrambling stats top class.

21:05 Back to the action now and Mickelson is -11 watney -10 and McNeill -8.

20:33 McIlroy has 4 foot for birdie on 10.

20:30 Mickelson -10 through front 9. Still 2 up on crowd.

20:27 Only 300 yards away from the fairway and Mcilroy is hole high. Wow. Mickelson is 39/39 from inside 10 feet. Wow.

20:25 Mickelson currently -10 and two ahead of the field after Watney bogeyed 9.

20:21 McNeil -6 through 9 holes. Mickelson bashes a hybrid club from other rough after and has 40 yards left after hitting a tree.

20:16 Mickelson bodies the 8th and moves to -10. Ernst moves back to -7.

20:13 McIlroy makes double. Drops to -6. Scott Gardiner has made a bogey on 8. Watney has 92 yards in on 9 and.........35 feet.

20:12 McIlroy makes bogey on brutal par 4 9. Drops to -7.

20:09 McNeill makes 3 birdies on the spin at 5-6 and 7 and par at 8 to make it to -8 and one off the lead. Westwood playing well at slowly moving up the leaderboard At -7

20:06 Today is Rory McIlroys birthday, happy birthday to the worlds second best player and proud Irishman.

20;04 Mickelson makes a par and Gardiner lips out from 3 feet for birdie. On 7.

20:00 Watney makes a 5 footer for birdie to share with Mickelson. Moore coming I to the finish currently -5 for the day.

19:42 Mickelson makes birdie at Par 5, to take the lead by one over McIlroy who eagled the 7th hole and parred 8.

19:39 I'd expect the scoring to get hot quick over the 6th, 7th and 8th. This will be interesting!

19:36 McIlroy putting worse than average with no putting stats in the top 15. If the putter gets hot....

19:33 Four way tie at the top of the leader board. Mickelson, Ernst, Gardiner and Watney.

What Golf Ball Suits Me Best?

Every golfer faces the same problem. The expense of equipment is getting higher and higher and a lot of us golfers love to have the top end gear, here's how to choose the right golf ball for your game and your pocket.

I'm here to give you a few suggestion to which what golf ball to use to improve your game in as many aspects as possible.

1) Price
2) Handicap Specific
3) Course Type. (Links/ParkLand)

We will take 4 brands.

  • Titleist
  • Callaway
  • Taylormade
  • Bridgestone

The ball needed to play links golf compared to parkland golf would be less spin off the tee and more spin around the green. As in links golf you do not need to shape the ball too much off the tee but the greens are of course harder so the more spin you can create, the better.

The classic links golf ball would be, Hex chrome from Callaway. It comes in at 27 euro. Mainly suited for swings below 95 mph which is not too slow, well in the winds any ways.

And for your average parkland I'd recommend a higher spin tee ball for controllability and average spin around the green.

Maybe something like, the Bridgestone B330-S. I'd try that ball out if you get the chance. 35 Euro.

Lower handicaps, 1-10. Golf is important in your life, spend some money on your golf ball. Taylormade Penta 5 is a good choice but be sure to watch those cart paths as they tend to tear up a little quick. 35 Euro.

A more expensive choice would of course be the Pro V1, the highest priced ball on the market is not worth the bucks. But if your used to them now, theirs no need to change. 49 Euro.

11-19, You enjoy your weekend round. You practise when it suits you and that's fine, you take golf as more as a casual sport. You need a ball that suits your game. You want more distance off the tee and a medium hard core for your short game. You need, the Callaway Hex Black. Pick them up from 40 Euro.

Higher Handicaps, 20-28. Golf is a social game to be enjoyed with friends but you still love that moment when you strike that perfect tee shot. Your game needs a ball that has high spin rate from EVERYWHERE.
But price comes into it big time for you, here is the ball you need. Srixon Z series, pick them up in a dozen for 30 Euro.

All prices come from, McGuirks Golf. Www.McGuirksGolf.Com

Edward Kennedy @_EdwardKennedy






Friday 3 May 2013

Shelbourne V Ucd May 3rd

Shelbourne Rovers were too strong for a UCD team that lacked any presence in the midfield area of the pitch. This relegation 3 pointer finished 2-0 in favor of Shelbourne.

Shelbourne were quick to set the pace of the game through good passing and dribbling from Adam Hanlon down the left flank.

UCD went for a very uncharacteristic "Route One" type of play spearheaded by top striker, David McMillan who lacked the cutting edge when a scoring chance presented itself.

Adam Hanlon scored in the 26th minute that sent the Shels on their way to a much needed three point victory over fellow relegation contenders UCD.

The rain descended on Tolka Park and the mood of the match turned rather bleak and uneventful. UCD created their first real scoring opportunity on the 35th minute when a header from a corner was cleared off the line.

The game was won in the midfield with the Shelbourne Rovers side controlling play for periods of time both in the attacking sector and in the defensive part of the field. Shelbourne were first to a lot of the breaking ball giving them good position going forward.

So just after half time, Stephen Hurley, ex-Ucd took a long shot from 25 yards out as a type of floating ball into the box rather than a clinical strike ended up in the top right corner if the net and finished off any chance the students had to get anything out of the game.

UCD added attacking threat Dean Clarke at half time who seemed to be the most enthusiastic player on the field trying his best to save the students from another away loss.

Man of the match was in fact the games first goal scorer Adam Hanlon.

Attendance was a reasonable 725. Not terrible considering UCD's poor traveling section.

 Follow Edward on Twitter @_EdwardKennedy

Sunday 28 April 2013

An Ingredient; Course Tip

Let's get this out of the way, no I'm not a touring professional, yes I am 16 from Dublin Ireland and trying to get better and maybe on the way I've picked up some useful tips and I thought I'd share.

A key Ingredient to shooting your personal best.

Have you ever gone to the course with 20 minutes to spare and you quickly warm up and get ready, tee off while forgetting to buy your chocolate bar or drink. Then realise half way down the 14th hole when you start feeling hungry and know there's nothing you can do about it? Yeah it happens a lot.

Next Saturday prepare some food for yourself to have on the course the next day. Yes it takes getting used to, eating on the course but your body and your game will thank you.

First timers go with;
Cashew Nuts
A Banana
Peanut Butter Sandwich, brown bread
And Turkey slices.

And don't forget those two bottles of water!!

Thank me when you lower your scores.

Edward Kennedy

Twitter - @_EdwardKennedy




Ucd V Shelbourne; use or lose

The college go into next Fridays (May 3rd) crunch relegation decider on a high having just come though Shamrock Rovers with three points. Bumping them above Shelbourne and Bray, having played ten games.

Shelbourne sit at the bottom of the league on three points having having drawn against S'Rovers, Cork and Limerick.

In order for the Students to leave Tolka Park with three points they will have to improve their quality of ball retention in midfield.

Center Midfielder Robbie Creevy is essential in that inexperienced section of the pitch, a stunning performance against Bray Wanderers left the fans in aw of his untapped potential. New signing Craig Walsh or 'Footballs next star' has produced performances worthy of his first team pick. His work rate against S'Rovers was excellent.

Shelbourne have a big problem at the back with the second highest goal coinciding tally. At -16 UCD are at -14. Having a clean picked up a clean sheet away to limerick it may be the start of a run of performances worthy of getting out of the drop zone.

Shelbourne are going to have to improve their discipline against the students as loosing a man early, or late like they did against limerick would prove more costly as UCD have more attacking prowess once on a run of form.

Shelbourne have only scored three goals through nine games and it is clear to say the team is not a well working cog just yet. Couple the lack of goals with a defence getting walked around you have a recipe for disaster. Keeping teams at bay has been impossible for them,  coinciding more than once on five occasions.

My prediction, shelbourne to make defencive errors but to have more strength and experience in the midfield over the students,
UCD will probably have Dean Clarke assisting David McMillan up front having put in a stormer coming on against S'Rovers.

Ht; UCD 0 Shelbourne 1
Ft; UCD 2 Shelbourne 1

Edward Kennedy

Follow @itstheretobehit
Or @_EdwardKennedy

Saturday 27 April 2013

The Students Shock Shamrock Rovers

Last night UCD brought a shock upset to the league when they took a two -  nil victory at home following an 87 minute onslaught of pressure from a Rovers side that lacked any flair or confidence.

UCD AFC, have started the season very poorly following the loss of a group of crucial first team starters during pre-season.  Some of who have ended up at the opposition side such as left midfielder turned left back Danny Ledwith.

Similarly, Shamrock Rovers also lost key players come the end of the previous season. Such as talisman Gary Twigg. However, being one of, if not the most supported and successful club in the league of Ireland they had the resources to bring in some firepower to try and stunt the success of the 'bit o red' Sligo Rovers.

And they did a good job. Bringing in a one, Mark Quigley directly from their western rivals. The top scorer last season has not preformed under the bright lights of Tallaght stadium.

Shamrock Rovers came into the game 5/2 on. They were clear favourites and for good reason. UCD had only obtained one point coming from an away two - two with Bray Wanderers. And were situated at the dubious dead last position on the league table.

Rovers also have started slowly for their standards but expected to pick up their complementary three points when they come with the crowd to the Belfield bowl. A heavenly ground for an on form team to score a few goals.

The college did a good job at the back all game with only a few near bloopers from the inexperienced students. Ball after ball came in over the top and nearly every time it was dealt with by Mick Leahy who put in an inspired performance with the help of right back, the red machine, Hugh Douglas.

Rovers hit the post from a poorly struck free kick that wasn't dealt with by substitute keeper Ger Barron.  After Mark McGinley injured his ankle early on in the first half.

This game was tough to watch from a devoted Rovers fans perspective because of their inability to score the goal that would've sent them on their way to a comfortable win.

So when UCD took the lead late into the second half from a free kick crossed in by Midfielder Sean Russell headed into the net by Hugh Douglas things couldn't get much worse. Ten minutes of pressure followed.

And it all came down to a corner from Danny Ledwith. Who had been floating in crosses from left back all night. One - nil at this stage in the  92nd minute, the goal keeper made the 90 yard run to add his physical presence in the box. And may prove to be the extra man.

Unfortunately for him, the ball was headed clear by David O'Connor and was hacked to Dean Clarke an important impact sub who ran with the ball instead of shooting into the goal from thirty yards. A three on one in the penalty area occurred with just the keeper to beat who did well to get back.

The ball fell to Sean Russell who eventually coolly finessed the ball into the back of the net with the last kick of the game for a two - nil victory that will spark the College's season and send shock waves through the Rovers management set up.

The discipline was poor with four UCD players picking up yellows in the first halfIt was a shock to see no one sent walking.

It can't get much worse for Shamrock Rovers after this defeat as they are now in a terrible position to hold up a title challenge.

Edward Kennedy

Follow Myself on Twitter -Link-

Saturday 16 March 2013

The Importance Of The Pitch

This past Friday, Game week two from the Airtricity League Of Ireland.

I attended my local club to watch them play v Derry City. I follow the team intently and have full faith in the manager and his ways, however, I turned up to the UCD Bowl with scepticism.

I knew the pitch had been used in the week prior to the game for a rugby match between UCD and Trinity.
As a result, I went directly to join in on the pre-game pitch walk to check the quality and instantly saw the repercussions of holding a rugby match on our football pitch. This was not, Not, in favour of UCD.

Expectation
Reality
A team that pride themselves in playing good quality passing football, lovely to watch but not so easy to pull off. I, Before this game have never really realised the importance of the pitch quality. The bouncing ball is impossible to play with in an attacking or defensive sense. The quality of soccer at junior level is poor right? How is the pitch? Answer. Sorted.

Previously, many of soccer fans have been sceptical of the money being spent on club facilities and staff in the big leagues and now I see how worthwhile the expenditure is.

A stepping stone in the development of the Airtricity league should be the importance of maintaining and promoting pitch quality. A better pitch should produce better football. We should hope.

And on we go, the trials and tribulations of #SupportingLOI

Edward Kennedy Tweet Us <Here>

Tuesday 12 March 2013

Aaaaaaaand Were Back; 2013-14

The 2013-14 season has begun, great hype was created for the beginning of the new season.


Big Transfers, Big  Managers, Big Supporters leads me to believe this coming season will be one of surprises, underdogs and Cup success'. And already we have seen some small but substantial upsets setting a trend that will be frequently arising week in week out this coming season.

It has not been long since Sligo Rovers lifted the Airtricity league trophy, or Ireland conceding 6 at the hands of Germany. But now, already, the league is starting up again.

But of course the cups have already well begun, this brings me to speak about the close proximity of games in the early months of the year. For example, The stunning students have played the brilliant Bohs three times in as many weeks due to the tight nit calender. All at the Dalymount park, leading me to be suspect of the pitch in the future weeks due to the regularity of senior matches taking place on it.

Looking forward now, Yes, The league of Ireland lacks a wide fan-base and i know it is a regular topic that arises at most Agm's. But lets face facts, the attendance is low mainly due to the fact the public think the standard is poor. And indeed it is at some stages, this could come from the fact that, at times the actual playing surfaces are not up to scratch.

Personally, I would hope that the boards would hold the quality of pitches of top priority for the prosperity of the league.

Onwards and upwards, Follow Me Edward on Twitter :

Wednesday 16 January 2013

McGinley Team Europe's 2014 Captain

Paul At His Best
Absolutely glorious news coming from Dubai  where the European golfing committee decided that Paul McGinley a Dublin man will lead the troops into battle in Gleneagles in 2014.

McGinley, who has had vast experience managing European sides in the past has been chosen ahead of previous captain Montgomerie. Who has a residence just a few miles from th course. McGinley will captain the team in Gleneagles with the support of the entire continent, possibly one of the most satisfying roles in professional golf. He will forever hold the accolade of first Irish Ryder cup captain one of many to come in the not so distant future.

McGinley is one of Ireland's most successful golfers beginning his brilliant career in Grange Golf Club in County Dublin Ireland near where I reside. However, it is not just the course or the club that made Growing up in the company of the best junior squad in Ireland Including Leslie Walker, British Boys Champion..Paul's brother (Michael) was at just about the same standards Paul was at at the time. Paul's brother was capped at junior level and of course that helped Paul along always making sure he was just that little bit better thank his younger brother
.
Paul has received great support from the European players and committee members alike. Well deserved swell.

I would hope that it will be an Irish trio of captaincies with McGinley then Darren Clarke in 2016 and finishing it off with Padraig Harrington in 2018 that would be a nice accolade to have as the Irish golf is in a great level at this moment and I can only see it getting better.

Good Luck Paul!!

Monday 14 January 2013

Blast From The Past: Alan McGloughlin

Northern Ireland v Republic of Ireland, Alan McGloughlin.
 
Windsor park, Belfast, 17th of November 1993.
 
A win would send Ireland to the USA for their second ever World Cup in 1994, a draw would to depending on the outcome of the Spain v Denmark game.
 
The Northern Irish had nothing to play for, however, these two nations don't meet very often on the football pitch and they were looking to make the most out of their opportunity. This game came towards the end of the troubles which made for a very hostile atmosphere especially because many of the Republic's players were of British decent. Republic of Ireland fans were not allowed to travel to the game because of security reasons and it was inevitable that the staff and players would be subject to dog's abuse.
 
Jimmy Quinn scored the opener for Northern Ireland late in the second half and the Windsor Park faithful felt they were hope and dry...
Step forward Alan McLoughlin! There has never been a goal met with a stonier silence then McLoughlin's stunning half volley which sent Ireland to USA '94!
 
P.S. Spain beat Denmark.

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Sunday 13 January 2013

McIlroy Backs McGinley for Captaincy


World Number 1 Rory McIlroy has backed Ryder Cup captain candidate Paul McGinley with his support ahead of the announcement of the Team Europe 2014 Captain.
McIlroy said, via Twitter,
"RC (Ryder cup) captaincy should be a one time thing... Everybody deserving gets their chance and moves on... Would love to play under McGinley in 2014"

This news comes in light of speculation that Colin Montgomerie might come back to retain the captaincy. The man who is mainly 'against' McGinley for the captaincy

 (even though its not really a competition but us golf viewers always want to make things competitive.)  

Is Darren Clarke. However all of eight months ago McGinley announced that Darren had come and expressed his support for him when it came to being the 2014 captain.

The USA team have already made their selection for Captaincy. In Tom Watson. The oldest USA captain in Ryder Cup history but he does have a serious amount of experience.

Their is also gossip that when Team Europe do make their decision on the captain for the 2014 Ryder Cup in Gleneagles they might make the call on the 2016 captain swell because Theo's two picks available and they might as well get that over with. Just speculation of course. 

I hope the Dublin born, Grange Golf Club man does get the nod for the upcoming Ryder Cup as he has enough experience playing and maneging, he has been the captain of two winning Seve Trophy teams, and never being on a loosing Ryder cup team.

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Tuesday 8 January 2013

Volvo Golf Champions: Preview

There has been good news surrounding the Volvo Golf Champions, worldwide household names have committed themselves to playing this tournament that begins on the 10-13 January 2013, most of them begin their seasons' here.

Such names like young gun Manassero, Charismatic Jiménez , Mr. Practise Harrington and Back to the big time Retief Goosen.
A star studded cast that will compete on a course measuring 6157 metres.

The course will be soft under foot as Durban has been victim of Much rain over the past few months.
Not A Lake But the GOLF Course Itself
There is also a 30-60 risk of rain and thunderstorms everyday. (European tour .com)

The course is predominantly flat but the last two holes will be testing as they were built on the sand dunes of Durban.  These two are 367 and 250 metres in length as par 4's so not long in the context of the golfing world.

However, if the weather does favour the tournament it adds the glorious sun shine to the course and it looks like this.

Durban Country Club is actually the only course in Africa to be rated in the top 100 golf courses of the world by Golf Magazine USA.

The third hole has been rated the best third in the world so you can understand why so many top European players have decided to start their seasons here.

I predict high scoring maybe -13. And Oleson to make a good showing. Quality player.

Sunday 6 January 2013

The Start Of The 2013 Season

Finally Official play got underway today at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions, Kapalua, Hawaii.

The windswept championship be gain play just over an hour ago. They have seen up to 60 mph winds completely unplayable for the tour pro.

However the players playing who would consider them serious major championship contenders could consider this a chance to get some British Open wind practice before the open as it always seems to be too windy for the Americans to make a play for the Claret Jug.

Rickie Fowler made the first birdie of the 2013 season with a birdie on number 2 of the plantation course. Theoretically, Webb Simpson made the first birdie as on day one,  Friday he was -3 through 7 but that was cancelled as the tournament was postponed until today.

This is a sight I have never seen before, Fowler is also sporting a rather blue Sunday outfit compared to the usual bright Orange get up he usually goes for.

It has been an intriguing start to the Pga Tour this season and let's hope it continues in this fashion for another while.

The next tournament is the Sony open in Hawaii, that will be fun.

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Edward Kennedy.


Friday 4 January 2013

Hyundai Tournament of Champions : Take A Look

Steve Sticker 2012 Champion
This week's PGA Tour tournament is of course the 'tournament of champions'.
A prestigious event to be included in as the field only consists of 30 tour pros.

However, the tournament does lack a key ingredient, star quality.
For example, within the field of 30 only 3 are in the top 10 of the world golf rankings. Those 3 are Bubba Watson, Brandt Snedeker and Jason Dufner. They are ranked from 7-10 so the first 7 are missing.

Most noticeably, Mr. Golf, Rory McIlroy.
Closely followed by Tiger Woods. As a result of the lack of abundance in world class household names slightly diminishes the tournament plus it will also lack the media attention the 'Tournament of Champions' deserves.

The course, the plantation course at Kapalua, is a par 73 with the length of 7411 yards. So not a longest course considering the par.

Number 3, the first test the players will find will be a welcomed par when the trade winds are up. Or down.

Number 9, a 'long' par 5 requires 2 good hits to make it over the valley as anything short will leave a a blind approach shot into a demanding green.

Finally, Number 18 named 'home' is a beast of a number but luckily for the players It is reachable in two for the longer hitters. Sitting at 663 yards it is the longest hole on the PGA tour.  

Unparallelled within the pga tour for its beautiful surroundings it is defiantly a hole that will be important to the final winner as after playing 17 holes in Hawaiian weather the mental capability to not get too distracted will be most important.

Blast From The Past : Jason McAteer


Ireland v Netherlands, 1st of September 2001

Jason McAteer

Lansdowne erupted like never before as Ireland beat Holland 1-0 back in 2001.

It was also Roy Keane's finest hour as an Ireland player after he set the tone for the match with a bone crunching challenge on Mark Overmars.

Gary Kelly was sent off for a silly foul which led to Robbie Keane being replaced by Steve Finnan which would prove to be a major decision.

The ball fell to Steve Finnan's feet in the 67th minute and he whipped in a cross to find Jason McAteer unmarked on the far side of the box and he coolly finished past the Dutch 'keeper.

Pandemonium ensued as Ireland were reminded of the glory days of the late 80's and early 90's.

McAteer has always been a fan favourite for his hilarious personality and sense of humour, and for scoring that goal of course!

Take a look at this amazing moment in Irish footballing through < This Link  >

Blast from the past is as always brought to you by Jack Flynn.
Jack's twitter page here.
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Thursday 3 January 2013

McLaughlin Makes Move To N. Forrest


Stephen McLaughlin has been signed up by NPower Championship side Nottingham Forest.
McLaughlin has been kept watch by Forest for the past two seasons and the English side have finally decided to hand in the offer to the Derry City team for the speedy left mid-fielder. 

It has been reported that Forest offered (£166,000) or 200,000 euros for McLaughlin. He is been contracted for three and a half years. 

Newly introduced Forrest boss Alex McLeish was the man to confirm the signing and the president of Forrest is also thrilled they were able to secure his signature ahead of the other clubs looking for McLaughlin's services. 

"Stephen is an exciting young talent who has been attracting attention from a number of English clubs. We are  delighted he is joining us and looking forward to help him develop his career and fulfilling his potential"

McLaughlin follows a good group of Airtricity League players to make their way across the pond to follow the footsteps of successful Irish players to make it big in the premier league as a result of starting off in the Airtricity League.

This signing is great news for Loi players as it shows the English side's are looking at the League Of Ireland for young potentially brilliant players.

Forrest are currently sitting in 11th place in the Championship.

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Edward Kennedy