World Cup of Darts: France and Denmark caused seismic shocks on opening night in Frankfurt

World Cup of Darts: France and Denmark caused seismic shocks on opening night in Frankfurt

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Australian duo of Damon Heta and Simon Whitlock begin title defence with an emphatic win as Belgium overcome personal issues The World Cup of Darts continues at Frankfurt’s Eissporthalle with a double session at 11am and 6pm on Friday – live on Sky Sports Arena

Last Updated: 16/06/23 1:35am

Thibault Tricole inspired France to a shock win against Northern Ireland on the opening night of the World Cup of Darts

France and Denmark caused opening night shocks at the World Cup of Darts, while defending champions Australia made a winning start and Belgium overcame personal issues.

The opening night of the revamped £450,000 tournament saw 12 group stage ties take place on Thursday, with Australia’s reigning champions amongst the high-profile nations to triumph.

French duo Jacques Labre and Thibault Tricole enjoyed a dream debut, courtesy of an emphatic 4-1 rout against Northern Ireland’s Brendan Dolan and Daryl Gurney.

Labre and Tricole dominated their more experienced opponents, and a 114 checkout from Tricole capped off a terrific display, as Northern Ireland’s miserable recent record at this event continues.

Group Stage – First Matches

Switzerland	3-4	Italy
Poland	4-3	Portugal
Czech Republic	4-2	Singapore
Spain	2-4	South Africa
Republic of Ireland	4-1	Thailand
Northern Ireland	1-4	France
Belgium	4-0	Finland
Canada	4-2	India
Austria	2-4	Denmark
Germany	4-0	Hong Kong
Australia	4-0	Guyana
Latvia	4-2	New Zealand

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France caused a big upset with a surprise victory over Northern Ireland

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Check out the best of the action from Day One of the World Cup of Darts in Frankfurt

Live World Cup of Darts

June 16, 2023, 11:00am

Live on

Danish debutant Benjamin Reus produced the performance of the night, boasting an astonishing individual average of 114.7 to stun 2021 runners-up Austria in Group F.

Reus also landed four 180s and conjured up a match-winning 116 finish as he and Vladimir Andersen condemned Mensur Suljovic and Rowby-John Rodriguez to a shock 4-2 defeat.

“I don’t know what just happened. I was completely in the zone,” reflected Reus, who featured in January’s Nordic Darts Masters.

“I was totally relaxed and everything went perfectly tonight. We played two really good PDC players, so we knew we needed to find something extra tonight.”

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Benjamin Reus was the star performer as Denmark outplayed Austria

Australia’s Damon Heta and Simon Whitlock began their defence with a whitewash win over debutants Guyana.

“It wasn’t a great performance but we got the job done,” said Australia’s No 1 Heta, who warmed up for this event by scooping a Players Championship title on Tuesday.

“We move on to bigger and better things tomorrow night and hopefully we get the job done against Gibraltar.

“We have grown up in Australia playing Pairs, so I think this format suits us. We fancy our chances.

“We won this title last year and it’s up to the other players to try and beat us, and that’s how we are going to approach it.”

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Australia delighted the crowd with their walk-on

Germany also opened their challenge with a whitewash win over Hong Kong, as Gabriel Clemens and Martin Schindler dispatched Man Lok Leung and Lok Yin Lee in four straight legs.

Huybrechts no longer gets on with team-mate Van den Bergh

Kim Huybrechts admits he no longer gets on with team-mate Dimitri Van den Bergh

Belgium were the highest seeds in group stage action on Thursday’s opening night, and Dimitri Van den Bergh and Kim Huybrechts began their campaign with a 4-0 demolition of Finland.

After the match, Huybrechts admitted he no longer gets on with team-mate Van den Bergh.

Huybrechts, the world No 31, told Online Darts: “It was a professional victory. We did a job but that’s about it.

“For me it’s the first time playing a doubles tournament with someone you don’t get along with now.”

Huybrechts added there was “something personal” between him and world No 10 Van den Bergh.

Massimo Dante (left) and Michele Turetta celebrate their win over Switzerland

Krzysztof Ratajski inspired Poland to a deciding-leg win over Portugal’s Jose de Sousa and debutant Luis Ameixa in their Group G opener, in a thrilling contest featuring seven maximums.

Elsewhere, Keane Barry impressed on his World Cup bow alongside ever-present William O’Connor, as 2019 finalists Ireland brushed aside Thailand 4-1 in their Group E opener.

Meanwhile, Michele Turetta and Massimo Dante led Italy to a landmark first win on the World Cup stage in the evening’s opener, after they fended off a late fightback from Switzerland to claim a 4-3 success.

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Italy edged past Switzerland to secure their first win at the World Cup of Darts

Live World Cup of Darts

June 16, 2023, 6:00pm

Live on

Afternoon Session: Group Stage – Second Matches

Finland	vs	China
Singapore	vs	Philippines
Switzerland	vs	Sweden
Portugal	vs	Lithuania
New Zealand	vs	Bahrain
Spain	vs	Iceland
Thailand	vs	Croatia
Northern Ireland	vs	Ukraine
India	vs	Hungary
Hong Kong	vs	Japan
Guyana	vs	Gibraltar
Austria	vs	USA

The losing nations from Thursday’s matches will play the third team from each group in Friday’s afternoon session, as Northern Ireland and Austria battle to preserve their qualification hopes.

Evening Session: Group Stage – Final Matches

Belgium	vs	China
Czech Republic	vs	Philippines
Italy	vs	Sweden
Poland	vs	Lithuania
Latvia	vs	Bahrain
South Africa	vs	Iceland
Republic of Ireland	vs	Croatia
France	vs	Ukraine
Canada	vs	Hungary
Germany	vs	Japan
Australia	vs	Gibraltar
Denmark	vs	USA

England, Wales, Netherlands and Scotland – the top four seeded teams – do not enter until the second round on Saturday.

The World Cup of Darts continues at Frankfurt’s Eissporthalle on Friday with a double session at 11am and 6pm – live on Sky Sports Arena.

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Magic Weekend 2023: What the head coaches said on Day 2 of Super League’s big event in Newcastle

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Tommy Makinson played a starring role in St Helens’ win over Wakefield

We round up all the key quotes from the Betfred Super League head coaches on Day 2 of Magic Weekend, which saw wins for Leigh Leopards, St Helens and Hull FC…

Contrasting emotions for Applegarth and Lam

Mark Applegarth is still confident he is the right man to lead Wakefield Trinity whichever division they are in next year after they fell to another defeat, this time going down 30-4 at the hands of Leigh Leopards.

The loss was Wakefield’s 14th defeat of the Super League season, and they are now six points behind 11th-placed Castleford Tigers after their neighbours defeated Leeds Rhinos in the last game of Day 1 in Newcastle on Saturday.

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Highlights from the Magic Weekend Super League clash between Wakefield Trinity and Leigh Leopards.

Trinity were beaten despite Leigh having to play a significant part of the match with 12 men following Ben Reynolds’ first-half red card and while Applegarth admitted his frustration at his side’s failure to get off the mark so far in 2023, he still thinks he is the one to oversee their rebuild whether they survive in Super League or end up being relegated to the Betfred Championship.

“I do,” Applegarth said. “It’s a horrible experience to go through, but you’ve got to front it up head on and make sure you’re doing everything you can.

“I feel like I’m doing everything I can, whether that’s making sure we’re as best prepared, looking at our opposition and where we feel there are going to be some weaknesses.

“This week, for example, I think we’ve had really good prep, we’ve just not served up the quality on the Sunday and that’s the part I’m looking at now.

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Ben Reynolds was sent off for Leigh Leopards after punching Wakefield’s David Fifita.

“Is it a tactical error? Is it some messages I’m giving or the quality of what we’re trying to do? That’s the frustrating part about it.”

Leigh, in contrast, have now won seven games in a row in all competitions and even found themselves with 11 players on the pitch at one point after Tom Nisbet was sin-binned. Head coach Adrian Lam was therefore naturally delighted with the character shown by the team.

“Down to 11 men with the last 10 minutes before half-time where we defended our line, I thought that was a really special moment for us as a club,” Lam, who was named Super League coach of the month for May, said.

“In hindsight, looking back now, you can’t train those moments and it’s about having trust in each other, I thought the way we scrambled in that period was unbelievable, so I’m really proud of them for that.”

Wellens heaps praise on record-breaker Makinson

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Highlights from the Magic Weekend Super League clash between St Helens and Huddersfield Giants.

Four tries and seven goals from Tommy Makinson saw the St Helens winger rack up a Magic Weekend record of 28 individual points as his side trounced Huddersfield Giants 48-6 in Newcastle.

The England international’s haul helped make it back-to-back wins for the reigning Super League champions and lifted them into the play-off places on points difference from Hull Kingston Rovers.

Saints head coach Paul Wellens was quick to sing the praises of Makinson for his efforts, although typically as a coach he focused on his defensive contributions as well as his attacking ones.

“I’m delighted with Tommy,” Wellens said. “Whilst he has not been playing poorly, what I really liked today was it will be about him scoring four tries, but I loved his strong defensive work and making strong decisions.

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St Helens’ Tommy Makinson believes that their comprehensive victory against Huddersfield Giants can help them turn the season round after they moved into the top six.

“When Tommy gets that side of his game right, as well as the finishing which undoubtedly he’s wonderful at, you’ve got the complete winger and that’s why he’s up there as one of the best wingers in the world.”

It was a frustrating afternoon for Wellens’ opposite number Ian Watson though as the defeat left Huddersfield six points off the play-offs and the Giants boss had a stark warning for the players he believes are under-performing.

“It was nowhere near the level of performance we need to be,” Watson said. “Some individuals are way of the mark at the moment and it’s up to them to get better or for us to make a choice on whether to replace them going forward.

“You don’t want to have to drop players or take them out, you want them to do their job, but sometimes players go through a bit of a dip and it’s a cut-throat business. You have to be that way and make those calls on people.”

How Hull FC turned defence into attack

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Highlights from the Magic Weekend Super League clash between Hull FC and Warrington Wolves.

Things are looking up for Hull FC, who have now won four of their last five Super League matches after defeating Warrington Wolves 30-18 in the final game of this year’s Magic Weekend.

A hat-trick from second row Josh Griffin after the break helped them fight back from being 12-0 down early on and having to defend their own line for large parts of the first half.

Black and Whites head coach Tony Smith felt it was those defensive efforts which helped set them up for the second-half fightback which moved them to within four points of the play-off places.

“Sometimes defending your own line can take the petrol out of you for the rest of the game but it did quite the opposite,” Smith said.

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Josh Griffin completed his hat-trick for Hull FC against Warrington after a wonderful team move from within their own half.

“It energised us actually and we were all ready to go in the second half. I thought Josh turned back the clock with having to use his speed to score tries. It was terrific and I was pleased for him.”

Warrington had led through tries from Connor Wrench and George Williams, with Wrench’s second temporarily putting them back in front during the second half.

They were unable to close the game out though and Wolves head coach Daryl Powell lamented not taking the opportunity to return to the top of the Super League table.

“The way we started the first half was class, but the start of the second half was non-existent really,” Powell said.

“We’ve lost a bit of confidence at the moment and we’re working hard to get it back. We feel like when we fix up one part of our game another part is not quite there, and there’s a bit to do defensively.”

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Wakefield Trinity 4-30 Leigh Leopards: Play-off chasers survive Ben Reynolds red card to down Super League strugglers

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Ben Reynolds was sent off for Leigh Leopards in the first half of the first game of Day 2 of Magic Weekend in Newcastle, but two tries from Lachlan Lam, plus Robbie Mulhern, Edwin Ipape and Josh Charnley crossing helped them pile more misery on winless Wakefield Trinity

By Marc Bazeley at St James’ Park

Last Updated: 04/06/23 2:30pm

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Highlights from the Magic Weekend Super League match between Wakefield Trinity and Leigh Leopards

Two tries from Lachlan Lam helped 12-player Leigh Leopards strengthen their Betfred Super League play-off ambitions with a 30-4 victory over struggling Wakefield Trinity in the opening game of Day 2 of Magic Weekend.

Scrum-half Lam and Robbie Mulhern helped the Leopards into a 10-0 lead at half-time at St James’ Park, but they were being forced to do things the hard way after Ben Reynolds was sent off for punching, with the incident swiftly followed by Tom Nisbet being sin-binned.

Trinity were unable to capitalise on that numerical advantage before the break and fell further behind in the 48th minute when Edwin Ipape was sent streaking clear to score, with Josh Charnley’s 16th Super League try this season and Lam’s second of the game securing their seventh win in a row.

The defeat ensured Wakefield, who grabbed a late consolation try through Max Jowitt, remain winless at the bottom of the table after 14 rounds of the regular season. But of greater immediate concern for them is the health of Jack Croft after he was taken off the field on a stretcher in the second half.

Story of the game

Wakefield, bottom of the Super League table and without a win in 2023 heading into this game, had been on something of a signing spree in a bid to boost their hopes of avoiding relegation and it was no surprise to see David Fifita named on the interchange bench after his midweek return to the club.

Leigh showed just why they had won their previous six matches in all competitions right from the start though and it needed some fine defence from Trinity to gang-tackle Zak Hardaker into touch and end a promising early attack from a scrum following a knock-on.

Nevertheless, the Leopards took the lead in the seventh minute thanks to the vision of former Sydney Roosters player Lam, who took the ball around 25 minutes out and spotted a gap to nip through and then out-pace the defence to finish on the left for an unconverted try.

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Ben Reynolds was sent off for Leigh Leopards after punching Wakefield’s David Fifita

Charnley was then denied adding to his tally for the season when the video referee deemed he had been held up over the line, but Leigh were soon in again on the quarter-hour mark as the front row combined, with hooker Ipape and Tom Amone shipping the ball on for fellow prop Mulhern to finish followed by Reynolds converting.

Trinity were unable to make the most of a Leopards error close to their own line following the restart, knocking on themselves soon after, but the play-off chasers found themselves down to 12 players in the 28th minute when stand-off Reynolds was dismissed for punching Fifita.

The Leopards then lost second row Nisbett to the sin bin for a dangerous contact on Jay Pitts, leaving them reduced to 11 players for 10 minutes.

Wakefield, however, could still not find a way through before half-time though and the closest they came was Tom Lineham being held up over the line followed by the winger knocking on as he dived for the corner moments later.

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Leigh Leopards’ Josh Charnley voiced his admiration for the touch judge’s handling of a high ball

Indeed, it was Leigh who moved further ahead eight minutes into the second half when Ricky Leutele broke down the left wing and then passed back inside for the returning Nisbet to send Ipape racing away for another try.

Hardaker converted and then added a further two points from a penalty goal in front of the posts with 53 minutes played, but play was then halted to allow Croft to receive treatment before being taken from the field on a stretcher.

When play resumed, it was not long before the Leopards pushed 24 points clear as Lam and Leutele sent the ball wide to the left for winger Charnley to cross for another converted score on 61 minutes followed by Lam putting the seal on the win. Jowitt’s late try, meanwhile, provided scant consolation for Trinity.

What they said

Leigh Leopards head coach Adrian Lam

“We have had a lot of changeover with 14 new players coming in [during the off-season]. The players we brought in are not only great players, but good people and I think that has really helped to grow the team.

“They are very close, but I still think we have two or three levels to go. If we keep driving that the only way is up for us.”

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Man of the match Lachlan Lam feels that his Leigh Leopards team are building something promising as they overcame Wakefield Trinity 30-4 at the Magic Weekend to boost their Grand Final hopes.

Player of the match Lachlan Lam

“We talked about it at the start of the year, we said our goal is to just work hard each week and hopefully we can keep jumping the ladder as we do that. The sky is the limit for us.

“We are making progress up that ladder which is exciting for our team and that town. We are building something here.”

What’s next?

Wakefield face one of their West Yorkshire rivals next when they welcome Leeds Rhinos to Be Well Support Stadium on Sunday, June 11 (3pm). Leigh are back in action on Friday, June 9 when they host Hull FC.

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Tennis Scores & Schedule

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Tennis Scores & Schedule

French Open

ATP World Tour / Men’s Singles / Round of 128

Thanasi Kokkinakis of Australia, seeded WC is currently playing Daniel Evans of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, seeded 20. The current score is 5-3. . Current server is Daniel Evans
Patrick Kypson of United States of America, seeded WC is currently playing Radu Albot of Moldova, Republic of, seeded Q. The current score is 3-6, 2-6, current set: 0-0. . Current server is Radu Albot
Sebastian Ofner of Austria, seeded Q is currently playing Maxime Cressy of United States of America. The current score is 6-4, 7-6, current set: 0-0. . Current server is Maxime Cressy
Karen Khachanov of Russian Federation, seeded 11 is currently playing Constant Lestienne of France. The current score is 3-6, 1-6, current set: 1-2. Current game: 30-G. Current server is Constant Lestienne
David Goffin of Belgium is currently playing Hubert Hurkacz of Poland, seeded 13. The current score is 3-6, 7-5, current set: 2-1. Current game is at deuce. Current server is Hubert Hurkacz
Pedro Martinez of Spain, seeded Q is currently playing Tallon Griekspoor of Netherlands. The current score is 4-6, 6-2, current set: 4-0. . Current server is Tallon Griekspoor
Marton Fucsovics of Hungary is currently playing Hugo Grenier of France, seeded WC. The current score is 4-1. . Current server is Hugo Grenier
Jiri Vesely of Czech Republic is currently playing Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece, seeded 5. The current score is 2-1. Current game: Love-15. Current server is Jiri Vesely
Jason Kubler of Australia is scheduled to play Facundo Diaz Acosta of Argentina, seeded LL, at 12:05. First server will be TBD
Mackenzie McDonald of United States of America is scheduled to play Sebastian Korda of United States of America, seeded 24, at 12:20. First server will be TBD
Matteo Arnaldi of Italy is scheduled to play Daniel Elahi Galan of Colombia, at 12:20. First server will be TBD
John Isner of United States of America is scheduled to play Nuno Borges of Portugal, at 12:30. First server will be TBD
Laslo Djere of Serbia is scheduled to play Andrey Rublev of Russian Federation, seeded 7, at 13:30. First server will be TBD
Arthur Cazaux of France, seeded WC is scheduled to play Corentin Moutet of France, at 13:30. First server will be TBD
Ben Shelton of United States of America, seeded 30 is scheduled to play Lorenzo Sonego of Italy, at 13:30. First server will be TBD
Roberto Carballes Baena of Spain is scheduled to play Emilio Nava of United States of America, seeded Q, at 13:30. First server will be TBD
Alexander Shevchenko of Russian Federation is scheduled to play Oscar Otte of Germany, at 15:00. First server will be TBD
Lucas Pouille of France, seeded Q is scheduled to play Jurij Rodionov of Austria, seeded LL, at 15:00. First server will be TBD
Lorenzo Musetti of Italy, seeded 17 is scheduled to play Mikael Ymer of Sweden, at 15:00. First server will be TBD
Adrian Mannarino of France is scheduled to play Ugo Humbert of France, at 18:00. First server will be TBD

WTA Tour / Women’s Singles / Round of 128

Panna Udvardy of Hungary is currently playing Iryna Shymanovich of Belarus, seeded Q. The current score is 7-6, 3-6, current set: 0-0. . Current server is Iryna Shymanovich
Nuria Parrizas Diaz of Spain is currently playing Storm Hunter of Australia, seeded Q. The current score is 6-4, 2-6, current set: 4-2. . Current server is Storm Hunter
Magdalena Frech of Poland defeats Shuai Zhang of China PR, seeded 29. 1-6, 1-6
Nadia Podoroska of Argentina defeats Jessika Ponchet of France, seeded WC. 6-0, 5-2
Aryna Sabalenka of Belarus, seeded 2 defeats Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine. 3-6, 2-6
Maria Sakkari of Greece, seeded 8 is scheduled to play Karolina Muchova of Czech Republic, at 12:00. First server will be TBD
Sara Bejlek of Czech Republic, seeded Q is scheduled to play Kamilla Rakhimova of Russian Federation, at 12:30. First server will be TBD
Magda Linette of Poland, seeded 21 is scheduled to play Leylah Fernandez of Canada, at 13:00. First server will be TBD
Elise Mertens of Belgium, seeded 28 is scheduled to play Viktoria Hruncakova of Slovakia, seeded LL, at 13:30. First server will be TBD
Leolia Jeanjean of France, seeded WC is scheduled to play Kimberly Birrell of Australia, seeded WC, at 13:30. First server will be TBD
Clara Tauson of Denmark, seeded Q is scheduled to play Aliaksandra Sasnovich of Belarus, at 13:30. First server will be TBD
Alize Cornet of France is scheduled to play Camila Giorgi of Italy, at 13:30. First server will be TBD
Tamara Zidansek of Slovenia, seeded Q is scheduled to play Qinwen Zheng of China PR, seeded 19, at 14:00. First server will be TBD
Taylor Townsend of United States of America, seeded Q is scheduled to play Anastasia Potapova of Russian Federation, seeded 24, at 14:00. First server will be TBD
Danielle Collins of United States of America is scheduled to play Jessica Pegula of United States of America, seeded 3, at 15:30. First server will be TBD
Anna Bondar of Hungary is scheduled to play Irina-Camelia Begu of Romania, seeded 27, at 15:30. First server will be TBD
Mayar Sherif of Egypt is scheduled to play Madison Brengle of United States of America, at 15:30. First server will be TBD
Jule Niemeier of Germany is scheduled to play Daria Kasatkina of Russian Federation, seeded 9, at 15:30. First server will be TBD
Liudmila Samsonova of Russian Federation, seeded 15 is scheduled to play Katie Volynets of United States of America, at 15:30. First server will be TBD
Sara Errani of Italy is scheduled to play Jil Teichmann of Switzerland, at 15:30. First server will be TBD

UAMS Health Little Rock Open

ATP Challenger Tour / Men’s Singles / Qualifying 1st Round

Mateus De Carvalho Cardoso Alves of Brazil is scheduled to play Omni Kumar of United States of America, at 16:00. First server will be TBD
Maks Kasnikowski of Poland is scheduled to play Rubin Statham of New Zealand, at 16:00. First server will be TBD
Peter Gojowczyk of Germany is scheduled to play Alafia Ayeni of United States of America, at 16:00. First server will be TBD
Giles Hussey of United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is scheduled to play Nick Chappell of United States of America, at 17:30. First server will be TBD
Colin Markes of United States of America is scheduled to play Strong Kirchheimer of United States of America, at 17:30. First server will be TBD
Beibit Zhukayev of Kazakhstan is scheduled to play Kris Van Wyk of South Africa, at 17:30. First server will be TBD
Donald Young of United States of America is scheduled to play Mukund Sasikumar of British Indian Ocean Territory, at 19:00. First server will be TBD
Christian Langmo of United States of America is scheduled to play Gustavo Heide of Brazil, at 19:00. First server will be TBD
Adam Walton of Australia is scheduled to play Gabriele Brancatelli of United States of America, at 19:00. First server will be TBD
Duarte Vale of Portugal is scheduled to play Alex Bolt of Australia, at 20:30. First server will be TBD
Marius Copil of Romania is scheduled to play TBD , at 20:30. First server will be TBD
Tristan Mccormick of United States of America is scheduled to play Bernard Tomic of Australia, at 20:30. First server will be TBD

UK Premier Tennis Series Week 7

Regional / Men’s Singles / Group Stage

Regional / Women’s Singles / Group Stage

Saturn Oil Open

ATP Challenger Tour / Men’s Singles / Qualifying 1st Round

Oriol Roca-Batalla of Spain defeats Ramkumar Ramanathan of British Indian Ocean Territory. 6-2, 6-2
Robert Strombachs of Latvia defeats Maxime Janvier of France. 6-3, 6-4
Marvin Moeller of Germany defeats Vladyslav Orlov of Ukraine. 6-1, 6-3
Terence Atmane of France is scheduled to play John Sperle of Germany, at 11:00. First server will be TBD
Sumit Nagal of British Indian Ocean Territory is scheduled to play Sergey Fomin of Uzbekistan, at 11:00. First server will be TBD
Constantin Bittoun Kouzmine of France is scheduled to play Aldin Setkic of Bosnia and Herzegovina, at 11:00. First server will be TBD
Benjamin Hassan of Lebanon is scheduled to play Hazem Naw of Syrian Arab Republic, at 12:30. First server will be TBD
Nick Hardt of Dominican Republic is scheduled to play Orlando Luz of Brazil, at 12:30. First server will be TBD
Liam Gavrielides of Germany is scheduled to play Manuel Guinard of France, at 12:30. First server will be TBD
Kenny de Schepper of France is scheduled to play Karl Friberg of Sweden, at 14:00. First server will be TBD
Renzo Olivo of Argentina is scheduled to play Jose Pereira of Brazil, at 14:00. First server will be TBD
Max Hans Rehberg of Germany is scheduled to play Louis Wessels of Germany, at 15:30. First server will be TBD

Trofeo FL Service – Citta di Vicenza

ATP Challenger Tour / Men’s Singles / Qualifying 1st Round

Roman Andres Burruchaga of Argentina defeats Ugo Blanchet of France. 7-5, 6-2
Vitaliy Sachko of Ukraine defeats Andrea Arnaboldi of Italy. 4-6, 2-6
Giovanni Fonio of Italy defeats Alexander Weis of Italy. 6-2, 6-4
Giovanni Oradini of Italy is scheduled to play Edoardo Lavagno of Italy, at 11:00. First server will be TBD
Alejandro Moro Canas of Spain is scheduled to play Francesco Forti of Italy, at 11:00. First server will be TBD
Luca Castagnola of Italy is scheduled to play Stefano Travaglia of Italy, at 11:00. First server will be TBD
Salvatore Caruso of Italy is scheduled to play Eduardo Ribeiro of Brazil, at 12:30. First server will be TBD
Lorenzo Giustino of Italy is scheduled to play Daniel Dutra da Silva of Brazil, at 12:30. First server will be TBD
Bor Artnak of Slovakia is scheduled to play Nerman Fatic of Bosnia and Herzegovina, at 12:30. First server will be TBD
Edoardo Cherie Ligniere of Italy is scheduled to play Nino Serdarusic of Croatia, at 14:00. First server will be TBD
Maxime Chazal of France is scheduled to play Alvaro Lopez San Martin of Spain, at 14:00. First server will be TBD
Federico Gaio of Italy is scheduled to play Gabriele Bosio of Italy, at 14:00. First server will be TBD

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Leeds Rhinos 12-13 St Helens: Lewis Dodd the drop-goal hero as Super League champions win golden-point thriller

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St Helens half-back Lewis Dodd booted a one-pointer in the dying seconds of golden-point extra-time in the Betfred Super League clash with Leeds Rhinos at Headingley to seal victory for the visitors; earlier in the night, Saints’ women had beaten the Rhinos 38-18

Last Updated: 26/05/23 11:25pm

Lewis Dodd celebrates scoring his drop goal to win the game

Lewis Dodd’s drop goal with just 26 seconds of golden-point extra-time left saw St Helens snatch a nail-biting 13-12 win over Leeds Rhinos in their Betfred Super League clash.

Tries from Ash Handley and Cameron Smith helped the Rhinos into a 12-4 lead at half-time at Headingley, with Tommy Makinson responding for the visitors with a try on his 300th Saints appearance.

Leeds were not helped by losing Aidan Sezer, Morgan Gannon and Harry Newman to injury before the break, and a converted try from Curtis Sironen and penalty goal from Makinson drew Saints level before the home side had James McDonnell sent off for punching late on.

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St Helens’ Lewis Dodd knocked over this drop-goal to seal a dramatic golden-point win over Leeds Rhinos

Neither side was able to conjure up a winner in normal time and both had numerous attempts at the one-pointer before Dodd, who kicked the crucial goal in Saints’ World Club Challenge win over Penrith Panthers, finally nailed the winning score just as the match seemed to be heading for a draw.

The fixture was part of a double-header which earlier in the night saw two tries apiece from Emily Rudge and Shona Hoyle help Saints’ women secure a 38-18 win over the Rhinos in the Betfred Women’s Super League.

Saints snatch pulsating win over Rhinos

In the circumstances it was remarkable enough feat for the Rhinos to fashion an eight-point interval lead given the first-half injury carnage.

No sooner had Rhyse Martin shrugged off the sluggish attentions of Jonny Lomax to set up Handley’s sixth-minute opener, the sight of Sezer limping up the tunnel as Martin was duly converting raised concerns.

Makinson stretched in at the corner to bring his side back within two points, but the visitors looked sluggish and a collision between the England winger and Jack Welsby under Richie Myler’s high ball coughed up a simple chance for back-row Smith to extend the Leeds lead.

Papua New Guinea forward Martin’s extras took the score to 12-4 but far more concerning was the sight of Newman, only recently eased back from his succession of injury blows, being helped from the field in some distress.

Gannon followed, helped gingerly off after a collision with Sironen which left both men stretched out on the turf, but amid the carnage it was still Leeds who threatened the next score as Sam Walters burrowed agonisingly short.

The Rhinos’ resistance lasted until five minutes into the second half when player-of-the-match Sironen bundled past Myler to round off a strong spell of Saints pressure with Makinson’s first points with the boot hauling his side back within two.

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Tempers flare in Leeds Rhinos’ match against St Helens in the dying moments of regular time, with James McDonnell being shown a red card for throwing a punch

But Leeds refused to buckle, and when normally dependable Saints prop Alex Walmsley coughed up a cheap error at the play-the-ball only a subsequent mistake by Justin Sangare saved the Saints prop’s blushes.

The visitors eventually dragged themselves level with 13 minutes left when Makinson kicked the two after Sangare was penalised for a late tackle on Jake Wingfield.

There was still drama to come as a mass brawl led to McDonnell being dismissed, and although the numbers were evened up in golden point when Sione Mata’utia was sin-binned that did not stop Saints from clinching victory at the last through Dodd’s boot.

Rudge and Hoyle help Saints women down champions

The win for the men made it a double at Headingley for Saints after their women had scored a resounding victory over the Rhinos in the opening match of the night.

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Highlights of the Super League clash between Leeds Rhinos Women and St Helens Women

Former England captain Rudge got the ball rolling for the visitors as she was sent charging over for the opening try after three minutes, although the Rhinos were level 13 minutes later after Caitlin Casey took a pass from Eloise Hayward to burst through a gap.

It was pretty much all Saints after that though, with Amy Taylor kicking a penalty and Rudge racing 30 metres for her second after being released by Faye Gaskin – named player of the match on her return from nearly two years out due to injury.

Gaskin had a hand in Hoyle’s first which made it 20-6 at half-time, and the back-row then followed Leah Burke in crossing within six minutes of the restart to put the away side firmly in the ascendancy.

The Rhinos briefly threatened a revival after hitting back through former Saints star Amy Hardcastle’s solo score and Hayward, Luci McColm’s finish and Katie Mottershead topping off scintillating attacking move secured a convincing win against the reigning BWSL champions.

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See behind-the-scenes as St Helens Women head coach Matty Smith gives his half-time team-talk during their game against Leeds Rhinos.

What they said

St Helens player of the match Curtis Sironen

“It was a very weird game. There were lots of errors, lots of penalties…but thank God for Lewis Dodd!

“We’ll take the two points from Leeds tonight and move forward from that.”

Leeds Rhinos head coach Rohan Smith

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Leeds Rhinos head coach Rohan Smith was full of praise for his team after their tough loss to St Helens

“I couldn’t be prouder of our players. It’s one of those days where you’ve won a lot more than two competition points.

“There is a lot of bravery, commitment and courage in that dressing room, and we know we can find it when it matters most.”

St Helens Women player of the match Faye Gaskin

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St Helens’ Faye Gaskin reveals how it feels to win player of the match after 720 days out injured

“It was an absolute privilege – our girls were class today. It was tough, but I wanted to give [head coach] Matty [Smith] a bit of a selection headache.

“The injury was tough and I struggled really bad, but I got a lot of support from Rugby League Cares…and I’m really grateful.”

Leeds Rhinos Women head coach Lois Forsell

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Leeds Rhinos Women’s head coach Lois Forsell was unhappy with her team’s defence in their loss to St Helens

“We had the answers to get the job done, but we just didn’t give ourselves the chance to do it.

“If you get on the front foot, that’s a big thing in rugby and we didn’t manage to do that and didn’t really have the desire to make that happen in the first half – and that’s where it mattered for us.”

What’s next?

St Helens and Leeds’ men’s teams head to St James’ Park in Newcastle for Magic Weekend. The Rhinos close out day one against Castleford Tigers and Saints face Huddersfield Giants in the second game of day two. The women’s teams are next in action in the Betfred Women’s Challenge Cup quarter-finals.

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Premier League Darts: Michael Smith defeats MVG, Jonny Clayton and Gerwyn Price to win in Sheffield

Michael Smith storms to a third consecutive nightly win with a 6-3 success against Gerwyn Price in Sheffield; P&J Live, Aberdeen will be the 16th of 17 individual venues on Thursday May 11 with the Play-Offs returning to The O2 in London on Thursday May 25

Last Updated: 11/05/23 11:42pm

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A look back at the best of the action from Night 15 of the Premier League in Sheffield as Michael Smith stormed to a third consecutive nightly win

Michael Smith secured a hat-trick of Premier League Darts nightly wins by defeating Michael van Gerwen, Jonny Clayton and Gerwyn Price en route to more stunning success in Sheffield.

Price could have guaranteed top spot with victory in the Night 15 showpiece, but the St Helens star cut the Welshman’s lead at the summit to just three points after claiming the spoils in the Steel City.

Premier League – Night 15 in Sheffield Results

Quarter-finals	Gerwyn Price	6-2	Nathan Aspinall
	Chris Dobey	6-4	Peter Wright
	Michael van Gerwen	4-6	Michael Smith
	Jonny Clayton	6-4	Dimitri Van den Bergh

Semi-finals	Gerwyn Price	6-2	Chris Dobey
	Michael Smith	6-4	Jonny Clayton

Final	Gerwyn Price	3-6	Michael Smith

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Smith ended Michael van Gerwen’s hopes in Sheffield with this sensational 130 checkout on the bullseye

Smith began his campaign with a 6-4 win over reigning champion Van Gerwen, converting a stunning 130 checkout on the bull to defeat the Dutchman for a second week in succession.

The world No 1 continued his charge to defeat Clayton in a repeat of last week’s decider, averaging almost 108 and sealing the deal with a superb 11-darter.

Smith then capped off a terrific night of action by claiming the £10,000 winner’s bonus, extending his winning Premier League run to nine matches in the process.

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Van Gerwen produced this brilliant 154 checkout against Smith

“Three in a row, it took me 15 weeks to win one night last year and now I’ve won four,” reflected Smith, who has leapfrogged Van Gerwen into second spot after his fourth nightly win overall. “I am still in with a chance of finishing top.

“Me and Gez spoke about it backstage before the match, if it’s me and him in the final next week he finishes top. Hopefully I can be top.

“I know you get nothing out of finishing top but it is the prestige. I have qualified last week and I could have just laid down and let anyone beat me. But I still need to go to The O2 playing well and winning.”

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Smith says he spoke to Gerwyn Price after their match and reminded the Welshman he can still finish in top spot

Price – who was victorious in Sheffield 12 months ago – retained top spot after storming through to his eighth nightly final of 2023 with 6-2 wins over Nathan Aspinall and Chris Dobey.

In the evening’s other quarter-finals, Clayton moved two points clear of Aspinall ahead of their decisive Night 16 showdown, courtesy of a battling 6-4 victory against Dimitri Van den Bergh.

The 2021 champion conjured up a spectacular 170 checkout midway through the tie, and registered his sixth ton-plus average of the campaign to see off the Belgian.

‘The Ferret’ is in a straight shootout with Aspinall for the final spot, with the pair going head-to-head in the quarter-final next week in Aberdeen.

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Jonny Clayton took out this brilliant 170 during his victory against Dimitri Van den Bergh

Victory will assure the Welshman another appearance at The O2 while even if Aspinall wins the quarter-final he also has to win his semi-final.

“It’s massive,” Clayton said. “All the pressure is on Nathan next week. He has to win, the ball is in my court because if I win I am through. I am going to try and relax and play my game.

“I was shaking like hell up there. It’s two points that are going to be massive.”

Meanwhile, Dobey cemented sixth spot in the table with an impressive 6-4 success against Peter Wright, crashing in six 180s and reeling off four straight legs from 4-2 down to advance.

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Peter Wright found this 126 checkout after Chris Dobey just missed out on a spectacular 170 finish

Live Premier League Darts

May 18, 2023, 7:00pm

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Where are we heading next?

Night 16 in Aberdeen: Thursday, May 18

Quarter-Finals	Gerwyn Price vs Peter Wright
	Jonny Clayton vs Nathan Aspinall
	Michael Smith vs Dimitri Van den Bergh
	Michael van Gerwen vs Chris Dobey

The Premier League roadshow heads to P&J Live, Aberdeen on Thursday May 18 for Night 16 of the league phase.

League leader Price meets Wright in his quarter-final tie, knowing that a run to next Thursday’s final will see him top the table for the first time in his Premier League career.

Clayton and Aspinall meet in a huge encounter with fourth spot on the line.

Clayton would confirm his Play-Off qualification with victory, while Aspinall must progress to the Night 16 final to overhaul his Welsh rival, who will qualify via nights won if the pair finish level on points.

Smith will begin his bid for an unprecedented fourth straight nightly win against Van den Bergh, while Van Gerwen and Dobey also collide for a place in the semi-finals.

2023 Premier League Schedule

Night 16	P&J Live, Aberdeen	May 18
Play-Offs	The O2, London	May 25

We’re back for more Premier League Darts action from the P&J Live, Aberdeen on Thursday May 18 – live on Sky Sports Action from 7pm.

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Premier League Darts: Michael Smith defeats Nathan Aspinall, Michael van Gerwen and Jonny Clayton to win in Manchester

Michael Smith claims his third nightly win of the Premier League season by defeating Jonny Clayton in Manchester The Utilita Arena, Sheffield hosts the 15th of 17 individual venues on Thursday, May 11 with the Play-Offs returning to The O2 in London on Thursday, May 25

Last Updated: 05/05/23 1:07am

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Michael Smith went so close to a nine-darter during the final against Jonny Clayton in Manchester

Michael Smith wired a nine-dart attempt on his way to sensationally defeating Jonny Clayton in Manchester, cementing his position in the Premier League Darts top four.

World champion Smith saw off local hero Nathan Aspinall, reigning champion Michael van Gerwen and Welsh star Clayton to complete back-to-back Premier League night wins with a remarkable display.

Premier League – Night 14 in Manchester Results

Quarter-finals	Peter Wright	5-6	Jonny Clayton
	Chris Dobey	6-2	Dimitri Van den Bergh
	Michael Smith	6-3	Nathan Aspinall
	Gerwyn Price	2-6	Michael van Gerwen

Semi-finals	Jonny Clayton	6-3	Chris Dobey
	Michael Smith	6-4	Michael van Gerwen

Final	Jonny Clayton	3-6	Michael Smith

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A look back at the best of the action from Night 13 of the Premier League in Manchester

After seeing off Aspinall 6-3 in their quarter-final, Smith then landed six doubles from 11 attempts to overcame Van Gerwen 6-4 in a repeat of January’s World Championship final.

He then raced to glory in the final to seal the £10,000 winner’s bonus, saving his best display of the night for the decider as he missed double 12 for a nine-darter and landed five 180s in a stunning performance.

Clayton took out 72 and 121 to establish a 2-1 lead early in the final, but ‘Bully Boy’ turned on the style in a stunning four-leg burst to take command.

He firstly missed double 12 for a nine-dart finish, taking leg four in 10 darts, before landing six perfect darts in the next as a 12-darter moved him ahead, before he took the next two – including a 100 checkout – to lead 5-2.

Clayton punished a missed match dart from Smith to hit back in the eighth leg, but Smith sealed his second successive nightly triumph in the next leg on double 13.

Smith ended the final with a season’s best average of 110.05, and crucially opened up a six-point buffer over Clayton and Aspinall in the league table.

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Smith beat Michael van Gerwen thanks to this 116 checkout

He said: “Beating Michael, I think I’ve beaten every player in the Premier League.

“I’m starting to come good, I won night three in Glasgow, struggled for seven or eight weeks just picking up the odd points.

“Now it’s starting to come good at the right time and the O2 is in three weeks and I’ll hopefully lift that title going into the Matchplay with the perfect run and the triple crown.

The 32-year-old added: “It’s twice now I’ve missed a double (for a nine-darter) in the last few weeks, but if I hit that I might have got involved with the crowd a little bit, not played as well so I’m glad I missed and a bit disappointed I
didn’t hit it, it happens but as long as I got the victory, that’s all that matters.

“It’ll happen again I know it will but for now I keep putting it on the wire, I’m not a million miles away but keep coming close.”

Clayton’s run to the final moved him back into the top four in the race for Play-Off spots, as he defeated Peter Wright and Chris Dobey.

Van Gerwen ended a run of five successive defeats against Gerwyn Price with a superb 6-2 win in a high-quality quarter-final, with both players averaging over 103 and the Dutchman landing six doubles from 10 attempts.

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Dobey hit a the big 170 finish against Clayton. It was his second ‘Big Fish’ of the Premier League Darts season!

Defeats in the quarter-finals for both Wright and Dimitri Van den Bergh saw their feint hopes of being able to qualify for the Play-Offs ended, as both relinquished a 2-0 lead before losing out to Clayton and Dobey respectively.

Despite landing a second 170 finish of the Premier League season Dobey also cannot now reach the Play-Offs in his debut season, sitting 10 points adrift of the top four with two league nights remaining, with Clayton and Aspinall certain to meet on Night 16 in Aberdeen.

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Nathan Aspinall received a brilliant homecoming from the Manchester crowd

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Peter Wright was unhappy with the movement of the camera but still manage to take out this 86 before telling the crowd what he thought!

Where are we heading next?

Night 15 in Sheffield: Thursday, May 11

Quarter-Finals	Gerwyn Price vs Nathan Aspinall
	Chris Dobey vs Peter Wright
	Michael van Gerwen vs Michael Smith
	Jonny Clayton vs Dimitri Van den Bergh

The Premier League roadshow heads to the Utilita Arena, Sheffield on Thursday, May 11 for Night 15 of the league phase.

Van Gerwen takes on Smith in another repeat of the World Championship final, while Price takes on Aspinall.

Dobey faces Wright and Clayton squares up to Van den Bergh.

2023 Premier League Schedule

Night 15	Utilita Arena, Sheffield	May 11
Night 16	P&J Live, Aberdeen	May 18
Play-Offs	The O2, London	May 25

We’re back for more Premier League Darts action from the Utilita Arena, Sheffield on Thursday, May 11 – live on Sky Sports Action & Sky Sports Main Event from 7pm.

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If in doubt, sit them out: New concussion guidelines for grassroots sport

Concussion has become more of a subject in professional sport in recent years – but grassroots still lags behind

Awareness of concussion injuries in professional sport has been at times dramatically highlighted in recent years.

Across several sports, involving both female and male athletes, numerous head injuries have been seen by thousands in the stands and millions on the TV. Much more work in research, mitigation and aftercare is widely recognised as a priority though.

However, professional sports account for just a fraction of the amount of people who take part in sport across any given week. The vast majority participating in sport are hundreds of thousands of children, teenagers and adults playing just for the love of it. The ‘grassroots’.

But just how aware are coaches, teachers, parents and those who play when a concussion injury may have occurred and how to deal with it?

The Government, Sport & Recreation Alliance and a panel of medical experts are hoping that from today that new guidelines will increase awareness greatly as a huge difference between professional and amateur sport is that the pro’s will typically have dedicated healthcare professionals on site, while grassroots sport does not.

The government guidance isn’t medical advice, it’s about being aware and doing the right thing. In this case, it’s following what has been used in Scotland for several years now. A catchy headline: “If in doubt, sit them out.” It kind of does what is says on the tin.

It’s to make people think first and then know how to act. So why would you be ‘in doubt?’ A concussion is a brain injury that affects the way a person thinks, feels and remembers things, and in sport concussion can arise from an injury to the head.

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Former England defender Matthew Upson said earlier this year football’s approach to concussions should be the same across the board

A clash of heads, falling heavily to the ground and hitting your head, even a heavy collision that doesn’t involve a blow to the head can cause a concussion. The key, say the guidelines, are to look out for 4 key elements; physical, mental processing, mood and sleep.

Physical – for example headaches, dizziness, vision changes.
Mental processing – for example not thinking clearly and feeling slowed down.
Mood – for example being short tempered, sad and emotional.
Sleep – for example not being to sleep or sleeping too much.

The full guidelines give greater details on visible clues of concussion.

If any of those traits are obvious, there must be doubt, so ‘sit them out.’ Remove the player from the field of play. The guidelines recognise that in fast moving sports it can be difficult to spot visible clues of concussion, but they urge players, coaches, teachers, referees, spectators and families to watch out and remove anyone with a suspected concussion from play immediately.

The guidelines also advise on not returning anyone back into play. That is crucial. The next step is an evaluation by a healthcare professional. That practically means accessing the NHS by calling 111 within 24 hours of the incident.

Rest and sleep as required within the first 24-48 hours is now seen as good for recovery while limiting smartphone, screen and computer time for the first 48 hours has also been shown to improve recovery. The don’ts are classic bits of advice, don’t leave someone on their own, don’t drink alcohol and certainly don’t drive a car.

As most grassroots sports don’t have professional healthcare professionals on site, the onus is on players, coaches, teachers and those watching on. Hence these guidelines are really about creating greater awareness.

Sports Minister Stuart Andrew said: “Sport keeps us healthy and active, but it is not without risk and major injuries to the head can and do happen.

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Rugby League’s Stevie Ward recently hosted a panel discussion on concussion in rugby league with fellow professionals James Graham, Tom Johnstone, Tyrone McCarthy and Greg Burke

“Research has shown the importance of fast and effective tailored treatment and we are issuing expert guidance to help people spot and treat head injuries. Whether used in a local leisure centre during a swimming lesson or on a village green during a cricket match, the guidance will make a real difference to people’s lives.”

Development of the guidelines has been led by the Sport and Recreation Alliance, Professor James Calder, chair of the expert drafting group, and Laurence Geller, the government’s adviser on concussion in sport.

The expert drafting group drew upon existing field research, with the aim of producing a consistent and preventative approach across all sports in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

It builds upon the world-leading work conducted in Scotland, which was the first nation in the world to produce guidelines covering all types and levels of sport. Its guidance was updated in March 2021.

Professor Calder said: “For the first time we have UK-wide guidance that raises awareness of concussion in grassroots sport at all levels. It provides practical evidence-based advice for those who may have sustained a concussion and gives a step by step plan for their safe return to work, education, exercise and full sport.

“Participation in sport and exercise is crucial for the nation’s mental and physical health and, with appropriate management, the vast majority of those who sustain a concussion during sport should make a full recovery.”

Professor Willie Stewart of Glasgow University added: “The release of these guidelines represents a world-leading landmark in sports concussion management.

“Based on the pragmatic, precautionary approach to immediate concussion management of ‘if in doubt, sit them out’, followed by an emphasis on individualised, self-managed return to normal life and sport, these guidelines set the standard for grassroots concussion management that all sports across the UK will follow.”

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Simon Middleton: Women’s rugby kicking comments not derogatory, just an observation | ‘Female golfers use different tees to men’

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Simon Middleton has told Sky Sports his comments regarding place-kicking were not derogatory, pointing to female golfers teeing off differently to men

Simon Middleton has said his comments that place-kicking from the touchline in women’s rugby is “unfair” were just an observation and not derogatory, adding ‘female golfers tee off differently.’

Ahead of England’s Round 3 Women’s Six Nations clash vs Wales in Cardiff, Middleton said the parameters for goal-kicking in women’s rugby should be changed, adding: “If a try is scored [within five metres of the touchline], the option should be there, maybe not to bring it into the 15-metre line, but maybe 10 metres from the touchline.

“I think that could impact the game and change it positively. I think it is a bit of an unfair game for female kickers because so much about goal-kicking relies on power.”

Ahead of Saturday’s Round 4 clash between Ireland and England in Cork, Middleton exclusively told Sky Sports that his comments were just an observation, adding he still thinks a change would benefit the women’s game.

“Maybe it’s me being naïve, I don’t do social media and stuff like that, but there’s clearly been a strong reaction both ways to it,” Middleton said.

“For me, it’s just an observation made on 10 years of being in the game.

Middleton makes the point that he has been asked the same questions regarding women's place-kicking since 2015

“And it’s born out of being asked the same questions now about what we see, as I was back in 2015 and 2017. Which is why female kickers’ percentages from the touchline aren’t as good as male kickers.

“There’s a physical disparity, and lots of it can come down to technique, without a shadow of a doubt, but there is lots that can be factored in.

“It’s just an observation. If you think about how we can make the field a fairer playing field at times.

“Again, I use the analogy of women golfers as opposed to male golfers, using a different tee. There’s nothing derogatory or anything aimed in it at all.

Middleton's suggestion is place-kicking from the touchline and five metres in, should be moved 10 metres in from touch

“It’s just how can we give players that practice religiously, what I would class as a fairer chance of executing their skill.

“We’re looking at everything all the time to try and improve the game, and if people don’t think it would improve the game, then that’s fine.

“It was literally just an observation, but caused a bit of a stir didn’t it?”

England skipper Marlie Packer played down the controversy,” saying: “There’s been some light-hearted stiff about in response, which is quite funny. And then there’s obviously some people that are very opinionated on it.

“I think when he said it, he was just putting it out there.

“The game is always evolving: tackle height, scrum laws, maul laws. We’re always looking for player safety but also to make the game more exciting.

England's Marlie Packer says Middleton was 'just putting it out there' with regards to his place-kicking comments

“Look, it’s just someone else’s opinion on something which might make it a bit more enjoyable, and a bit more people sitting on the edge of their seats kind of rugby.

“For me, we need to score close to the posts. Let’s help our teammate out, score close to the posts, and then we don’t even need to talk about this situation.

“Because the accuracy, the hard-work, the training they put into their kicking, you couldn’t question it. So let’s try and help each other out.

“So all the Tweets and articles people have written about it, leave them to it.”

England have picked up heavy victories over Scotland, Italy and Wales so far, and will likely do so again vs Ireland

Ireland are on a steep learning curve | Red Roses skipper Packer: Middleton was just putting it out there

The Red Roses next face an Ireland side who have gone from 2015 Grand Slam winners to failing to qualify for the most recent Rugby World Cup after losses to Spain and Scotland.

Ireland have suffered heavy defeats to Wales (31-5), France (55-3) and Italy (24-7) so far in this championship, and have been beset by off-field issues in recent times.

Head coach Greg McWilliams has most recently had to come out and deny the IRFU is sexist.

“Ireland are on a learning curve, and at times it feels a really steep one. We’ve been on it in the past,” Middleton said.

“But ultimately, our job is to be the best we can be. We’ve got players right across the squad who are looking to prove points, coming back from injury, looking to keep the shirt, to get the shirt.

“As a group, we want to be better every time we play. That’s our foundation.

The Ireland Women's side are in a very tough spot at the moment

“We put some really good stuff together against Wales, but there was definitely some stuff we need to be better at.

“We’ve been focussed on that this week, and transferring our work in training to the game.

Middleton departs his role as Red Roses head coach at the end of the 2023 Six Nations, having been in position since 2015, leaving him with two games left in charge.

“I’m really enjoying it. I love competition anyway,” he added.

“It’s like anything in your job, you’ve got to put the hard yards in with training. The players and staff are exactly the same.

“Everything we do it for is competition. When we get in there’s such a buzz, and we have such a brilliant group together.

“We all went out last night, 49 of us, for a meal. And they were taking the mickey out of me and having a good laugh at me as I was struggling with a quiz desperately.

“I did remind them who picks the side, but it doesn’t bother them anymore! So I’m going to miss that. I’m going to really miss being around the group.

Middleton leaves his post at the conclusion of the 2023 Women's Six Nations next weekend, having been in charge since 2015

“The thing that’s really pulling at me at the moment is I can see the game going upwards. It’s going to go massive.

“The ball is rolling and it’s only going to go faster. Last week, we had 8800 at Wales. Fantastic occasion, with stands full and the chair on the field.

“It’s a real great vibe, and you can’t not miss that.

“But I am good at leaving things behind. I’ll move on and whatever I’m doing next, I’ll enjoy. And I’ll certainly take a lot of memories with me.”

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Six Nations review: England exposed to the Farrells’ importance in testing campaign

Owen Farrell and Andy Farrell pictured after England’s loss to Ireland to end the 2023 Six Nations

Sky Sports News’ James Cole takes a look back on the 2023 Six Nations, assessing the state of play with each side ahead of the World Cup in France later this year…

Ireland

Ireland were, quite simply, head and shoulders above the rest in this year’s Six Nations.

Ireland’s Six Nations 2023 results

Saturday, February 4	Wales 10-34 Ireland
Saturday, February 11	Ireland 32-19 France
Saturday, February 25	Italy 20-34 Ireland
Sunday, March 12	Scotland 7-22 Ireland
Saturday, March 18	Ireland 29-16 England

The grand slam was a fitting end to an excellent campaign – and, indeed, an excellent 12 months. They’ve now won 10 Tests in a row, which including an historic series win in New Zealand.

Jonny Sexton seems to be getting better with age and may think twice about his decision to retire after the world cup.

Their back three have all taken their games to another level – James Lowe, Mack Hansen and Hugo Keenan are now a lethal combination. They’ve also got huge strength in depth in their squad to call upon.

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Ireland head coach Andy Farrell was delighted to clinch the Grand Slam on home turf while England’s Steve Borthwick admitted his side fell short.

And as for head coach Andy Farrell, he has created an environment in which his players can express themselves and thrive.

Hansen said as much this weekend, suggesting the motivational skills of Farrell are unrivalled

“All the coaches [deserve credit] but Andy, he can just get you up for a game like no other,” Hansen said. “He just seems to say all of the right things and it just sounds cooler in his accent as well.

The RFU must be wondering why on earth they let Farrell go in 2016.

2023 Six Nations final standings

Team	W	D	L	SD	BP	P
Ireland	5	0	0	79	4	27
France	4	0	1	59	4	20
Scotland	3	0	2	20	3	15
England	2	0	3	-35	2	10
Wales	1	0	4	-63	2	6
Italy	0	0	5	-60	1	1

France

France were slow starters in this campaign and weren’t at their best – not until they produced one of their greatest ever performances to destroy England at Twickenham.

France’s Six Nations 2023 results

Sunday, February 5	Italy 24-29 France
Saturday, February 11	Ireland 32-19 France
Sunday, February 26	France 32-21 Scotland
Saturday, March 11	England 10-53 France
Saturday, March 18	France 41-28 Wales

Italy were beaten by just five points in Rome in the opening round, they then lost to Ireland and only just held off Scotland before everything finally clicked as they ran riot against England.

Weaknesses had been exposed against Ireland, but you sense this French side will peak when it matters.

France captain Antoine Dupont had another outstanding tournament

In captain Antoine Dupont they have a freakish talent who can single-handedly turn a game, while their back three of Damian Penaud, Thomas Ramos and Etan Dumortier are clinical.

Add to that the fact have one of the biggest and most powerful packs in world rugby and it’s clear why they are bookies favourites to win the World Cup on home soil later this year.

Scotland

Scotland had an excellent campaign and one that has left Scottish supporters wondering why head coach Gregor Townsend’s future beyond the World Cup remains in doubt.

Scotland’s Six Nations 2023 results

Saturday, February 4	England 23-29 Scotland
Saturday, February 11	Scotland 35-7 Wales
Sunday, February 26	France 32-21 Scotland
Sunday, March 12	Scotland 7-22 Ireland
Saturday, March 18	Scotland 26-14 Italy

Finn Russell was scintillating throughout and now that he and Townsend have healed their differences, Scotland are hitting their straps.

Finn Russell was a standout performer for Gregor Townsend's Scotland side

What’s more, Blair Kinghorn’s performance against Italy, which saw him bag a hat-trick, has shown also their depth at No 10.

Giant winger Duhan Van der Merwe has taken his game to another level, and the centre combination of Huw Jones and Sione Tuipulotu has been a big success.

Scotland hadn’t won their first two games in this competition since 1996, but they put that to bed with impressive wins over England and Wales. It’s just such a shame that they find themselves in a World Cup pool alongside South Africa and Ireland, from which only two will progress.

England

England are a side in transition and they’re running out of time to be competitive in France.

England’s Six Nations 2023 results

Saturday, February 4	England 23-29 Scotland
Sunday, February 12	England 31-14 Italy
Saturday, February 25	Wales 10-20 England
Saturday, March 11	England 10-53 France
Saturday, March 18	Ireland 29-16 England

New head coach Steve Borthwick has been quick to lay the blame on his predecessor Eddie jones – but Borthwick’s decision to drop Owen Farrell in favour of Marcus Smith against France backfired massively.

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Steve Borthwick said England’s heavy Six Nations defeat to France was ‘painful’.

England fans learnt the hard way just how crucial Farrell is to this side, whether at 10 or 12, which is something that Jones preached for years.

Up front, England’s pack restored some pride on the final weekend in Dublin but the lack of strength in depth – particularly at prop – is striking. Number 8 also remains an issue and calls for Zach Mercer to get a chance will grow.

Behind the scrum, Freddie Steward has been a revelation and was outstanding. His red card in Dublin was harsh and shouldn’t overshadow how well he has played.

Freddie Steward was controversially sent off for England in their final Six Nations game against Ireland

In Ollie Lawrence, Borthwick has another ball carrying centre aside from Manu Tuilagi, while Jack Van Portvliet has usurped his Leicester team-mate Ben Youngs at No 9. When you look at it like that, Borthwick has made big strides in evolving this team.

The defeat to France aside, England have made progress, albeit they are still well short of the best.

Maybe one day they’ll reflect on that night Twickenham turned Les Bleus and conclude it was a tough but crucial lesson.

Wales

It was a turbulent campaign for Wales, both on and off the field.

Wales’ Six Nations 2023 results

Saturday, February 4	Wales 10-34 Ireland
Saturday, February 11	Scotland 35-7 Wales
Saturday, February 25	Wales 10-20 England
Saturday, March 11	Italy 17-29 Wales
Saturday, March 18	France 41-28 Wales

Head coach Warren Gatland’s reappointment brought much hope to Welsh fans but it didn’t materialise in this campaign.

The chastening defeat to Scotland was a reality check for many. Off the field, the contact row and threat of strike action before England’s visit to Cardiff divided the squad and the game itself.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland oversaw a turbulent Six Nations campaign on and off the field

On the pitch, Gatland continuously chopped and changed his teams during the campaign as he struggled to find the balance between evolution and revolution.

The emergence of young centres Joe Hawkins and Mason Grady is a big plus. Wales also have a plethora of talented back rowers but lacked cutting edge when it mattered.

That said, they’ll be hard to beat come the World Cup – and were they to meet England in the quarter-finals, you wouldn’t rule out Gatland masterminding another England downfall.

Italy

Italy may have ended up winless and with the wooden spoon but they showed they can now compete with the best.

Italy’s Six Nations 2023 results

Sunday, February 5	Italy 24-29 France
Sunday, February 12	England 31-14 Italy
Saturday, February 25	Italy 20-34 Ireland
Saturday, March 11	Italy 17-29 Wales
Saturday, March 18	Scotland 26-14 Italy

Had they been more clinical against Wales and Scotland, Kieran Crowley’s side could well have produced an upset.

They were also the better team in the second half against England, while they pushed both France and Ireland closer than anyone would have predicted.

Italy were much improved in this year's Six Nations

Italy are better now than ever before – but they must start taking their opportunities.

Unfortunately for them, they find themselves in a World Cup pool alongside New Zealand and hosts France. It’s hard to see them emerging from that one.

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