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Louis Rees-Zammit and Welsh Rugby Community React to Continuation of Crowd Restrictions in Welsh Sport

LOUIS Rees-Zammit, amongst many in Welsh rugby, has expressed the need for fans to attend games on Twitter.

Rees-Zammit: “Rugby is nothing without fans”

Link: https://twitter.com/LouisReesZammit/status/1478849188255436807

The social media reaction came after Mark Drakeford made clear the stance the Welsh government were taking and why rugby crowds remained capped at 50 after their most recent review.

With the maximum attendance at sports events in Wales remaining capped at 50 spectators, many took to Twitter to voice their concern.

Louis Rees-Zammit retweeted the news that the WRU are looking at the possibility of playing their upcoming Six Nations home fixtures at a venue in England, should the restrictions continue into the tournament.

The tweet was captioned “Rugby is nothing without the fans, make it happen”.

Liam Williams retweet (left) https://twitter.com/SanjayWills/status/1479142068203237378

Jonathan Davies retweet (right) https://twitter.com/JiffyRugby/status/1479146168210931724

Fellow Wales international Liam Williams appeared supportive of his teammate, while tv presenter and former Welsh international Jonathan Davies said it was in the government’s hands.

Tom Shanklin retweets Covid figures from England

Link: https://twitter.com/Coronavirusgoo1/status/1479533065546477572

Former Wales international Tom Shanklin reposted promising statistics from England, with the number of hospital admissions due to Covid dropping in the past week.

Daily patients admitted to hospital as of 6 January according to gov.uk, as sourced by Peter Gillibrand (left) Link: https://twitter.com/GillibrandPeter/status/1480156687696908295

meanwhile case rate in Wales drops (right) Link: https://twitter.com/GillibrandPeter/status/1480156687696908295

However, the most recent figures in Wales suggest a rise in admissions to hospitals, with the expected peak still yet to hit, alongside the annual wave of flu.

Promising figures have continued to circulate on social media in other categories such as a decline in the amount of reported new daily cases.

The restrictions could have severe financial implications on teams in all Welsh sport and the concern can be seen at all levels of rugby across social media.

Chairman of Dragons, David Buttress, expressed his view on the situation stating it is “devastating” for the sport in Wales. Link: https://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/news/19798425.dragons-chairman-david-buttress-ban-fans-brutal/

Many have questioned the effectiveness of the restrictions, with the example of Caerphilly RFC who played a game on the 27th in front of the maximum 50 fans outside.

This was with a further 140 indoors, which is still in keeping with Welsh law and the game made headlines in Wales.

“The decisions on where to play matches are in the end for the WRU to make, not the Welsh government to make.” Said Drakeford.

“I want to put on record my appreciation for the way in which the WRU has conducted its business for the whole of the pandemic,

“It was the WRU who decided to cancel a match between Wales and Scotland at the start of the pandemic before government was asking them to do that.

“It was the WRU that made the Principality Stadium available to be a Nightingale Hospital and it was the WRU that very successfully ran four internationals in Cardiff during the Autumn.”

Drakeford has stated “we have to see the tide turn” on Covid, and that the restrictions are unlikely to be lifted before the expected peak of the most recent wave.

The peak is expected to be in two weeks, by the time the next government review will take place.

Llantwit Major F.C Football Manager 22 Challenge Shirt Giveaway – The Extraordinary Welsh 2nd Division Club

LLANTWIT Major F.C are giving away a free football shirt to anyone who can qualify for the Champions League, whilst using the team in the popular video game Football Manager 22.

The game replicates real life football tournaments, and to qualify for the Champions League, a Welsh team would have to win the Cymru Premier division.

This would ensure qualification to the early play-off rounds before the Champions League group-stage.

In order to complete the challenge, a player must get past the play-off rounds and into the group-stage.

The challenge has already been completed by one Twitter user called Laurence, with the club announcing they will award anyone else who completes the challenge with a shirt before 14^th January.

Another Twitter user was also given a shirt after Tweeting proof of winning the Champions League with Llantwit Major FC in last year’s edition of the game.

“Someone who has thousands of followers and is a well-known content creator started following us and made a tweet a few weeks later talking about our social media.” Said board member Ben Dudley.

“As a small club, we have to do things differently to get noticed”

However, this doesn’t tell the full story of Llantwit Major F.C.

The team based in South Glamorgan currently play in the JD Cymru South, the 2^nd division of Welsh football, where they currently sit in 2^nd place.

They are only two points behind the leaders, Jonathan Jones’ Pontypridd Town.

Under manager Karl Lewis, who is still in charge after five years at the club, they rose from the amateur ranks, to win the Division three title in 16/17, and then the Welsh Football League Division Two title in the 17/18 season.

They had gone from lower leagues to winning the third tier of Welsh football and back-to-back promotions with a strong core of local players.

“We’ve worked to a policy of getting players who are already familiar with each other.”

“A lot of the squad have been friends their whole lives and are all from the local area.

“You can see in the clubhouse and on the field, people don’t just want to win for themselves, they want to win for their mates.”

After the success, some players have moved on to represent Welsh Premier sides.

Striker Adam Roscrow moved to Wimbledon AFC in the English League One and club legend, Sam Snaith, also came close to a big move to Newport County before the Covid 19 pandemic struck.

Other players have stayed, with goalkeeper Jack Lansdowne currently playing his 14_^th season at the club.

The team known as “the Windmill Army” currently play at the Prince Moomin’s Palace, after a girlfriend of one of the players won a raffle costing £20 to rename the stadium.

They were anticipating a club record attendance against Undy Athletic on 27^th December, with hundreds of school pupils were invited until the game was postponed due to Covid restrictions.

Leopardstown Dornan Engineering Christmas Hurdle: Runner by runner guide

Abacadabras

Jockey: J W Kennedy

Trainer: G Elliott

Form: 52F14-3

7yoB Gelding

OR: 157

Wgt: 11st 12lbs t

Won the grade one Morgiana Hurdle at Punchestown and the grade one Aintree Hurdle last season. The latter was ahead of subsequent grade two winner Buzz, who won the Coral Hurdle at Ascot this season. In behind was Former Champion Hurdle winner, Buveur D’air and grade one winner over two miles, Silver Streak. Despite there being a sedate pace in the first half of the race, this is strong form. His trainer, Gordon Elliot, hopes that a step up to three miles will suit this horse’s strong travelling ability. He was last seen finishing 12 lengths 3^rd to a rampant Honeysuckle over 2^1/2 miles in the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle at Fairyhouse last month and his ability makes him competitive in most fields. He doesn’t tend to work hard once in front.

2. Commander Of Fleet

Jockey: B J Cooper

Trainer: G Elliott

Form: 001-5F1

7yoB Gelding

OR: 152

Wgt: 11st 12lbs b

Was the runner up in the 2019 Albert Bartlett, 2 lengths behind eventual Gold Cup winner, Minella Indo. Last seen when victorious over three miles at Navan earlier this month, where Burning Victory was a distant 16^th. He carried top weight but with it was a handicap so this represents a step up. It was his 3^rd run this season and the other two were less successful. 5^th of six runners to 2019 Cesarewitch winner Stratum at Thurles and fell when two from home in a handicap last month. Wears blinkers again here.

3. Flooring Porter

Jockey: D E Mullins

Trainer: G P Cromwell

Form: 2111P-F

6yoB Gelding

OR: 164

Wgt: 11st 12lbs t

Winner of this race last season where Sire Du Berlais finished 6 lengths behind in 3^rd. Since winning the Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham in March, Flooring porter has failed to complete his next two starts. He was pulled up in the Punchestown Stayers’ Hurdle in April, behind eventual winner Klassical Dream. This came after some messy jumping and his stamina quickly emptied when approaching the straight. In his seasonal reappearance in the grade two Lismullen Hurdle at Navan, he guessed at the 2^nd last and fell when fighting for the lead. This came after a strong tendency to jump left throughout. Here he will Face Klassical dream again, but trainer Gavin Cromwell is hopeful that course form will count and reports that the champion is in good health.

4. Grand Roi

Jockey: D N Russell

Trainer: G Elliott

Form: 1/3120-3

5yoB Gelding

OR: 147

Wgt: 11st 12lbs

Finished 3^rd in the grade two Lismullen Hurdle over 2^1/2 miles in November behind eventual winner Darasso. He was head to head with Flooring Porter when his opponent fell. Sire Du Berlais finished 1^1/2 lengths ahead of this horse in 2^nd and will go again in this race. Last season Grand Roi moved from Nicky Henderson’s ownership and Seven Barrows to be trained by Gordon Elliott. His best result over hurdles came in the grade two Grant Thornton Hurdle at Limerick in December last year. He also picked up a respectable 2^nd place finish in a grade three contest. Both of these came over the distance of two miles. Although he showed some progression last season, he has never run over the three mile distance and Gordon Elliott has acknowledged that when talking to the Racing Post. He also hopes his charge will improve with his first run of the season under his belt.

5. Klassical Dream

Jockey: P Townend

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 11135/1-

7yoB Gelding

OR: 164

Wgt: 11st 12lbs h

Made an outstanding comeback, after 16 months away from the racecourse, when winning the grade one Ladbrokes Champion Hurdle in April. Flooring Porter pulled up and Ronald Pump could only finish 3^rd, 12 lengths behind the eventual winner. The change in distance and the application of a hood appeared to transform this horse, after finishing a disappointing last of five in the Matheson Hurdle at Leopardstown in December 2019. He won three grade ones at novice level over two miles. Mullins appeared to have got the best out of this horse again, but over three miles last time out. He comes into this race fresh, making his seasonal debut, which also might have been a factor in such an impressive victory. Connections are hopeful he can repeat most recent form. His Jockey, Paul Townend, also comes into the race with eight wins from 16 starts. Jockey and stable in form.

6. Mr Adjudicator

Jockey: J B Foley

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 28P171/

7yoB Gelding

OR: 154

Wgt: 11st 12lbs

Hasn’t been seen on a racecourse in 879 days, where he won on the flat at Galway. At his best was a grade one winner as a juvenile. Also won a grade two ahead of smart grade one winner Bapaume in France in 2019. There is no clear explanation for the long absence. Klassical Dream, who also runs here, is proof a Mullins horse can come on well after a long period off the racecourse. Tornado Flyer’s heroics in the King George VI two days ago also tells us how well a Mullins outsider can do. However, Mullins has said it could be a tough ask for this runner.

7. Ronald Pump

Jockey: K M Donoghue

Trainer: Matthew J Smith

Form: F23-525

8yoCH Gelding

OR: 156

Wgt: 11st 12lbs t

Cheltenham Stayers’ Hurdle runner-up in 2020. Often puts in a brave effort, finishing in the places behind top class opposition. He has finished 2^nd in four grade one contests. Last seen finishing 15 lengths 5^th to Champ in the grade one Long Walk Hurdle at Ascot ten days ago. This came after a brave effort finishing 8 lengths 2^nd to unbeaten Honeysuckle, over the shorter distance of 2^1/2 miles. He was still 4^1/4 lengths ahead of Abacadabras and a mile ahead of Saldier in 5^th. Both are runners he will face again here. In that run he set a rapid pace from the front. Trainer Keith Donoghue stated that the blinkers made him too keen at Ascot so they have been removed this time around.

8. Saldier

Jockey: B Hayes

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 678-115

7yoB Gelding

OR: 162

Wgt: 11st 12lbs

Last grade one victory was in 2019. Was kept busy over the summer when picking up a win on the flat and has already picked up a grade three over hurdles this season. This came at Tipperary where he finished 3 lengths ahead of previously mentioned Darasso. This form was reversed recently in the Hatton’s Grace Hurdle when finishing 5^th to winner Honeysuckle. He finished a long way behind Ronald Pump (2^nd), Abacadabras (3^rd) and 2^1/2 lengths behind Darasso (4^th). Mullins has reported that Saldier took a knock going down before that run however, so this form might not reflect accurately. His only run over three miles came a long way 8^th in the Ladbrokes Champion Stayers’ Hurdle in April where Klassical Dream cruised to victory. Mullins believes he could still be effective at this distance. Runs without cheekpieces this time.

9. Sams Profile

Jockey: A Coleman

Trainer: M F Morris

Form: 52/F31-0

7yoB Gelding

OR: 152

Wgt: 11st 12lbs

Last seen finishing 10^th of 11 runners in a beginners chase at Galway in October. Form over hurdles reads more promising however, with two placing efforts at grade one as a novice. He also picked up a grade two over hurdles at Gowran Park in January, 16 lengths ahead of Darasso in 4^th, who appears a useful reference point here in the form. This run came over a distance of three miles on heavy going. A hood was also applied here for the first time but it has been taken off after the unsuccessful effort over fences. That victory came last season after he fell over fences at Thurles in November. He picked up a fractured rib which bruised his lungs. Somehow the injury went undetected and he actually ran WITH that injury nine days later, finishing very respectable 3^rd, 11 lengths behind eventual Cheltenham festival winner over fences Monkfish. Long recovered from the injury and soft ground conditions here should suit.

10. Sire Du Berlais

Jockey: M P Walsh

Trainer: G Elliott

Form: 41/132-2

9yoB Gelding

OR: 160

Wgt: 11st 12lbs b t

Was runner-up in the Stayers’ Hurdle at the Cheltenham festival in March, just 3^1/4 lengths behind a brilliant Flooring Porter. Finished 3^rd in this race last year, again behind a victorious Flooring Porter. Was last seen 6 lengths 2^nd in the grade two Lismullen Hurdle behind Darasso at Navan in November. He won the Lismullen last season and the performance could be considered a relative step down compared to his usual form. It was his seasonal debut and he should be better for the run.

11. Burning Victory

Jockey: Rachael Blackmore

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 11/7-70

5yoBR Mare

OR: 143

Wgt: 11st 5lbs

The only mare in the race completes Willie Mullins’ four horse assault line-up. She won the grade one Triumph Hurdle at Cheltenham in 2020, a race most memorable after classy but erratic Goshen unseated rider when in a healthy lead, blundering at the last. Burning Victory has been kept busy during the summer, with a few runs on the level. She finished 7^th in a handicap hurdle at Galway in June, 6^1/2 lengths behind the winner Saldier, who also runs here. She then picked up a win in France and an impressive 2^nd place finish 1^1/2 lengths behind recent grade two winner over hurdles, Buzz. She “disappointed” ,according to Willie Mullins, in a big field in her seasonal reappearance over obstacles at Navan in December. The winner of that race was Commander of Fleet who runs here. Mullins is hopeful the smaller field will encourage a better run from her.

Ladbrokes King George VI Chase: Runner by runner guide

Asterion Forlonge

Jockey: B J Cooper

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: F4331-U

Wgt: 11-10lb t

7yoG Gelding

OR: 152

There are no reports that suggest Willie Mullins’ runner is worse for wear after unseating his jockey, Brian Cooper, in the John Durkan Memorial Chase earlier this month. His travelling ability saw him in the picture against eventual winner Allaho at Punchestown, before he got too low and blundered three fences from home. This is a mistake he has made a few times before, with two falls early last season after similar errors. When he finishes, he normally makes the places against top opposition. He finished 3^rd to Chantry House, who runs here, in the grade one Marsh Novice’s Chase at Cheltenham in March. He also finished a respectable 3^rd to Janidil at Fairyhouse in a grade one over 2^1/2 miles before claiming victory at Punchestown over the same distance that month. His trainer, Willie Mullins, also thinks this horse runs better right handed which shows in his previous three runs but he is stepping up to three miles or the first time.

2. Chantry House

Jockey: Nico De Boineville

Trainer: N J Henderson

Form: 13111-1

Wgt: 11-10lb

7yoBR Gelding

OR: 162

Last season’s grade one Marsh Novice’s Chase winner. Made his seasonal reappearance with a 37 length victory over The Big Breakaway at Sandown early last month. He also ended last season on a high at Aintree when winning the Grade one Betway Mildmay Novices’ Chase by 32 lengths when closest challenger, Espoir De Romay fell two fences from home. Both these efforts came over the 3 mile distance and the win at Aintree provided a good stamina test, with the previously mentioned Espoir De Romay setting a good pace throughout. Chantry House is five wins from six runs over fences and his trainer Nicky Henderson is happy with his preparation, saying he is sharp. He also said that despite the previous couple of runs they haven’t “taught” him to go 3 miles, but speed won’t be a problem in the King George VI. This is his first time mixing it with some of the more established names in the staying division, having been a novice last season.

3. Clan Des Obeaux

Jockey: Harry Cobden

Trainer: P F Nicholls

Form: 8/23211-

Wgt: 11-10lb p

9yoB Gelding

OR: 172

Two time former winner of the race in 2018 and 2019. Paul Nicholls’ runner underwent a wind op last season and didn’t finish outside the top three in five graded runs. He won the Betway Bowl by 26 lengths at Aintree and the Punchestown Gold Cup, ahead of two-time Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Al Boum Photo. These two big wins came near the back end of last season after the application of cheekpieces, which appeared to benefit him greatly and he will wear them again at Kempton. The King George VI will be Clan Des Obeaux’s seasonal debut and Nicholls has stated that this horse and Frodon are “the two to beat”.

4. Frodon

Jockey: Bryony Frost

Trainer: P F Nicholls

Form: 14151-1

Wgt: 11-10lb t

9yoB Gelding

OR: 167

Winner of last year’s renewal and Cheltenham Gold Cup 5^th. This horse proved a massive problem for the field Boxing Day last year. He made all, but on the 2^nd lap had a tendency to jump slightly left. It didn’t hinder his chances because he corrected immediately after every obstacle. This also caused the horses in behind to follow suit, causing them to lose valuable ground and stamina with every jump. Clan Des Obeaux finished just over 8 lengths back in 3^rd, having been off the bridle before the final bend, Saint Calvados was just behind him in 4^th and Lostintranslation was pulled up. They all run again this year. Frodon’s seasonal debut saw him beat reigning Cheltenham Gold Cup champion Minella Indo by 5 lengths, when winning the Ladbrokes Champion Chase at Down Royal. Frodon’s Jockey, Bryony Frost, has also recorded a big grade one victory in the Tingle Creek at Sandown earlier this month.

5. Lostintranslation

Jockey: Brendan Powell

Trainer: C L Tizzard

Form: 3/3P5P-1

Wgt: 11-10lb t

9yoB Gelding

OR: 160

Earned his first win since 2019 in the grade two Chanelle Pharma 1965 Chase over 2 miles 5 furlongs last month. He had a 2^nd wind op prior to the run and ground conditions suited. He beat Dashel Drasher by 16 lengths who, although may have preferred softer going, had never lost at Ascot. In the last two renewals of this race however, Lostintranslation has been pulled up. in a Racing Post article after his seasonal reappearance, Joe Tizzard remained confident that the King George VI was the most suitable race for Lostintranslation and that he seemed reinvigorated by the recent operation. The yard are also much happier with his training performances after he was difficult to get a tune out of last season.

6. Minella Indo

Jockey: Rachael Blackmore

Trainer: H de Bromhead

Form: 11F41-3

Wgt: 11-10 p¹

8yoB Gelding

OR: 175

The reigning Cheltenham Gold Cup champion. Henry de Bromhead’s charge was beaten by 5 lengths after a brave front-running effort by Frodon in the Ladbrokes Champion Chase at Down Royal in late October. Bryony measured the fractions well and had this horse struggling after the 2^nd last fence. This run was respectable and could make for great preparation, with de Bromhead confident he will be better after the run. This run also reversed the Gold Cup form, as Frodon finished 30 lengths behind this horse in 5^th. His jockey, Rachael Blackmore, won BBC’s World Sport Star award last week and will be looking to add to her incredible achievements in the Aintree Grand National and at Cheltenham earlier this year. Minella Indo is bidding to become the first Irish-trained winner of the race since Kicking King in 2005, who also did it after winning the Gold Cup earlier that year. Wears cheekpieces for the first time here.

7. Mister Fisher

Jockey: Sean Bowen

Trainer: N J Henderson

Form: 4/P1PU2

Wgt: 11-10lb

7yoB Gelding

OR: 162

Last seen in the grade two Oaksey Chase, losing by a neck to a very game Frodon. This horse appeared to be getting the better of the reigning King George VI champion Frodon, who fought back winning by a neck after a stiff uphill finish. This horse’s highest achievement so far over fences came at Cheltenhem when winning a grade two chase over 2^1/2 miles. His best run over 3 miles was that previously mentioned effort against Frodon and the plan has always been to run him over 3 miles this season. Would prefer good ground.

8. Saint Calvados

Jockey: Gavin Sheehan

Trainer: P F Nicholls

Form: 1422/4U-

Wgt: 11-10lb t¹

8yoB Gelding

OR: 162

Has moved stables to Ditcheat with Paul Nicholls and has undergone a wind op. Last year finished 4^th, over 8 lengths behind eventual winner Frodon. his best win came in the grade two Betway Kingmaker Novices’ Chase in February 2018. This year the field has strengthened with the addition of the Gold Cup winner. He wears a tongue tie for the first time here and Nicholls has described him as a “lively outsider”. At his best he finished 2^nd by a neck to Min in the 2020 Ryanair over 2^1/2 miles, with A Plus Tard and Frodon both finishing behind him.

9. Tornado Flyer

Jockey: D E Mullins

Trainer: W P Mullins

Form: 22543-5

Wgt: 11-10lb

8yoB Gelding

OR: 161

Last seen finishing 5^th in the grade one John Durkan Memorial Punchestown Chase earlier this month. Asterion Ferlonge unseated rider three fences out. Hasn’t won a race since 2019 and this is his first time running 3 miles since last year’s renewal of the grade one Savills Chase, where he also finished a distant 5^th. In other contests ran over 2^1/2 miles he has shown late progress in races so a step up to 3 miles is thought to suit him.

Euro 2020 Final: How do England Win?

England have incredibly reached their first major tournament final since 1966 and are one step away from breaking a massive barrier for English football.

Before the tournament opinions on England’s chances were split, and even after their first two group games there were massive questions about the creativity of the side and team selection.

Fast forward three weeks and social media is flooded with “It’s coming home”, men with bleach blonde hair and Atomic Kitten are confessing their love for Gareth Southgate.

Meanwhile, Italy have extended an incredible unbeaten run to 33 matches which is the longest unbeaten run in their history.

Roberto Mancini’s men are more dynamic than Italy teams of the past, but still have a rock solid defence and can still play a trademark long pass to open defences.

Home advantage could prove vital

So how do England win their first major tournament in 55 years?

Raheem Sterling

There is no other place to start. Raheem Sterling has arguably been the player of the tournament and England need him in this fixture.

He has been the creative spark in the majority of England’s play.

He has been central to everything England have done and it would be hard to think where England would be without him.

Three weeks ago, he wouldn’t have been the first player on the team sheet for many England fans before the tournament.

Sterling finished the season with 10 league goals, which isn’t bad but he won the league with Man City and wasn’t as prolific as in previous seasons.

Phil Foden also played less minutes than him in the same side and scored 9 goals.

Jack Grealish had also caught the eye at Aston Villa, often controlling games by himself and taking on the creative workload for the whole side.

There were big calls from fans online, calling for Sterling to be dropped and to start Grealish.

Gareth Southgate kept faith in Sterling who has caused problems for opponents by cutting in with darting runs and creating chances, or scoring tap-ins with good attacking movement.

Against Denmark it is his attacking movement that caused Simon Kjaer to slide the ball into his own net and deep into extra time showed he still had the legs to keep playing.

He is bound to play a key roll against Italy, with pace to burn against a strong but ageing back line.

The Italian Centre-backs

Italy’s Veteran Centre-back Giorgio Chiellini

Italy are famously known for having a rock solid defence and have been throughout history.

Conceding to Austria in the round of 16 saw the end of a clean sheet streak lasting 1,168 minutes of football, which was a new world record for an international team.

They have conceded a goal in both games since then, against Belgium and Spain.

Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini have been such an effective partnership over the years for both Juventus and Italy but there is a weakness.

With age the pair are only getting slower and despite their brilliance, this can be exploited.

Morata’s goal for Spain highlighted this against Italy, when he ran at the defence.

The full-backs aren’t the fastest either, with the exception of Emerson who often doesn’t start.

Chances to exploit this will be few and far between because Italy’s defence often plays in a low block, but with an abundance of pacey wingers and especially Sterling’s runs inside it is possible for England to take advantage.

Team Spirit

It is very difficult to be able to quantify this, but it is clear to see the squad has gelled much better than in previous tournaments under Gareth Southgate.

There are players from a mixture of clubs who have bonded well, despite competing fiercely against each other in the league.

Previous generations of England players, like Gerrard, Lampard, and Ferdinand have been outspoken about the lack of chemistry they had for England.

In contrast, the current back line often consists of Kyle Walker and John Stones of Manchester City, with Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw of Manchester United.

Despite playing for rival clubs they couldn’t be better as a unit.

They have conceded one goal for the whole tournament and that was a direct freekick, setting a new record for most consecutive games in a Euros tournament without conceding a goal (5).

The team chemistry has been captured in vlogs like this one on England’s Youtube channel:

Adaptability

Throughout the tournament the team has shown the flexibility to be able to play a back four or a back three with wing-backs.

The pace of Walker and Shaw allows for support going forward or cover for the centre-backs in defence.

Southgate normally opts to match the opponent’s formation at the back so will probably play a back four against Italy.

They have also shown adaptability in terms of substitutes, with Jack Grealish playing a major role in the two goals against Germany after coming on with 20 minutes left.

Against Denmark, Grealish was substituted off in extra time so Southgate could change the formation to a back five to see out the rest of the match when 2-1 up.

In a final, this quality could prove the decider if England are to win, as there are few squads in international football who have such depth in quality and versatility.

Royal Ascot: Day 1 Tips

BY LUKE HAWKINS

14:30 Queen Anne Stakes (Group 1)

PALACE PIER

Jockey: Frankie Dettori

Trainer: John & Thady Gosden

Form: 1113-11

Hard to look past this exceptional talent who won the Lockinge Stakes last time out at Newbury last month. Only defeat came on soft ground against a class soft ground specialist in the form of The Revenant. Otherwise has lowered the colours of class opposition in every run since winning the St James’s Palace Stakes last year.

FORECAST:

1st PALACE PIER
2nd TOP RANK

With this pick being a really popular pick for many, a forecast with Top Rank in 2nd could be a good option. with six wins to his name and only finishing once out of the places, this horse has two wins and a 3rd place effort in four class one contests. Travelling ability has stood the test before and was last seen 3rd behind Palace Pier and Lady Bowthorpe in the Lockinge, the latter of which doesn’t run here. He is arguably the 2nd most consistent horse in the field.

15:40 King’s Stand Stakes (Group 1)

WINTER POWER

Jockey: Silvestre De Sousa

Trainer: Tim Easterby

Form: 61011-1

It is easy to see why Battaash would be favourite. He has been a top class sprinter for four years now and the support he has is justified. However, he can get caught out, as he did in this race two years ago where Blue Point got first break. His galloping ability saw him lower the colours of Battaash. Winter Power likes running on the front end and put on a great display at York last month, winning a listed sprint by 3 lengths. This was ahead of consistent winner up to class 2, Atalis Bay, with everything else left far behind. It looked like a great prep run for this race even if it didn’t have much quality in depth. With this filly in her best form and the advantage of a weight allowance, which means she carries 10lb less than Battaash, leaves her with every chance. Oxted hasn’t shown the same form that saw him win the July Cup last year and although she might be near the places, Liberty Beach hasn’t won in a field as competitive as this. King’s Lynn places consistently in good quality contests but may need more here. Extravagant Kid isn’t out of the picture though, with Dettori on board he might pose a big threat. He has finished in the top two consistently in American races recently, and beat Final Song in Meydan in March. Winter Power however looks to be in top shape and could be hard to reel in from the front.

16:20 St James’s Palace Stakes (Group 1)

MOSTAHDAF

Jockey: Jim Crowley

Trainer: John & Thady Gosden

Form: 111

Won the Heron Stakes at Sandown last month finishing ^1/2 a length ahead of Highland Avenue, a length ahead of Bullace and further back in 5th was familiar Newbury winner Mithras. This race was deep in quality and the winning distance doesn’t tell us of the great cruising ability this horse showed on difficult ground. He also showed a great burst of pace to eat up the rising ground and pass the strong traveller, Highland Avenue, rapidly in the final furlong. He will face stiff opposition from 2000 Guineas winner Poetic Flare, but the trip of seven furlongs probably suits the burst of speed this horse has at the end of a race. Also closely related to Royal Ascot winner Nazeef, and there are similarities in the way this horse quickens late on.

17:00 Ascot Stakes (Handicap)

ELYSIAN FLAME

Jockey: Ben Curtis

Trainer: Mick Easterby

Form: 132/3-15

Last seen finishing 5th in the Chester Plate last month. He was carrying top weight (1 stone 4lb) more than the eventual winner, Green Book. This isn’t particularly impressive form but the ground was listed as good to soft which went against this horse and he couldn’t have had a worse position throughout the race. Before that, won a handicap at Newbury where he showed true quality. The race was ran truly throughout, and there was an early break by some front runners before the final bend. Although the pace ultimately collapsed up front when this happened, the horses behind tried enough for it to stretch their stamina. This horse then battled for the last few furlongs against an athletic looking horse in Alminghwar, who has a couple victories under his belt in races that were a lower class. Rochester House, who also goes here, was 6 lengths behind in 3rd on that occasion. Here, Alysian Flame carries a fair weight and providing there is no rain the ground will suit. This horse has a lot of qualities that will prove useful if he is in the picture late and the race is sure to be a good test of stamina which this horse needs.

Cazoo Derby: Runner by Runner Guide and Verdict

1. ADAYAR

Jockey: Adam Kirby

Trainer: Charlie Appleby

Form: 41-22

Looked like a horse with ability when winning the Golden Horn Maiden at Nottingham in October last year. However, the field in behind has produced few winners and none with real consistency. Was last seen finishing 2nd behind Third Realm in the Lingfield Derby trial where he didn’t show the steady balance needed of a horse at Epsom. Wouldn’t mind soft ground but the weather forecast suggests the ground will dry up a bit at the time of writing. Also starts from dreaded stall 1.

2. BOLSHOI BALLET

Jockey: Ryan Moore

Trainer: Aidan O’Brien

Form: 315-11

Impressive winner by 6 lengths in a Derby trial at Leopardstown. Finished 6^1/2 lengths ahead of Mac Swiney in 4th who went on to win the Irish 2000 Guineas and 8 lengths ahead of smart Sea The Stars colt Southern Lights in 6th. Would prefer good going but even if he doesn’t get that class could see him prevail. Full brother to Group three winner, Southern France, but has shown more consistency than him, putting up three wins in five starts. That run at Leopardstown displayed balance, stamina and athleticism and it is easy to see why he is favourite. Is also Aidan O’Brien’s only runner which is unusual and should be in the picture late on and it will take a good horse to beat him.

3. GEAR UP

Jockey: Ben Curtis

Trainer: Mark Johnston

Form: 1141-5

Last seen when finishing 5th in the Dante Derby trial at York in May, 5 lengths behind the winner Hurricane Lane. Best result was ahead of Bolshoi Ballet in France last October as a two year old. This race may have summed up the requirements for this horse to have a chance. there was heavy going and he had control from the front with the pace not too demanding. The conditions also clearly worked against Bolshoi Ballet. This horse may not get the control he needs here and the drier the ground gets the less his chances get.

4. HURRICANE LANE

Jockey: William Buick

Trainer: Charlie Appleby

Form: 1-11

Frankel colt unbeaten in three starts, the most impressive being his last start in the Dante Derby trial in May. This result came on good ground ahead of a rejuvenated Megallan (^3/4 length 2nd), High Definition (2 lenghths 3rd) and Gear Up (5 lengths 5th). This is strong form. He also boasts a victory over a horse called Parachute who has since won a decent class three contest at Newmarket which shows he can reproduce quality. He seems to be able to go on most surfaces, a sign of a class horse and showed a quality engine in both races, with the Dante dictated by Hollie Doyle on Roman Empire. She set a quick pace from the front which means this horse passed a strong stamina test and showed adaptability. He should place here and could possibly win.

5. JOHN LEEPER

Jockey: Frankie Dettori

Trainer: Ed Dunlop

Form: 4-11

two wins from three starts, both this season. Interestingly Frankie Dettori picked up this ride after his original ride, High Definition, was taken out of the race by Aidan O’Brien. Last time out at Newmarket in May finished ahead of a few good horses, the most notable of which was Fancy Man. Fancy Man boasts the scalp of subsequent group three winner Alenquer, but this came as a two year old and he hasn’t had a win as a three year old. Tasman Bay in 2nd (1^3/4 lengths) had previously finished 3 lengths behind Hurricane Lane who goes here. This could be a question mark in the form. In the run at Newmarket, John Leeper showed strong traveling ability but wouldn’t switch off early on and going into the dip went slightly left. He appeared to be a horse with raw ability, but it was a bit rough around the edges and starting in stall 12 he faces a disadvantage. To stand a chance he will need to be tidier and prove what looks like raw ability is genuine.

6. MAC SWINEY

Jockey: Kevin Manning

Trainer: John Bolger

Form: 9181-41

Irish 2000 Guineas winner beat Poetic Flare by a short head to claim the prize. Appeared to relish soft ground but here the ground might dry up a bit too much for him, this remains to be seen. All three of his victories have come on ground that has give. Stamina appears to be his strong suit so the step up in trip could benefit this horse but the question is will he have the speed needed in this quality field especially if conditions dry up? possibly not.

7. MOHAFETH

Jockey: Jim Crowley

Trainer: William Haggas

Form: 73-111

Looked like an extremely talented horse when winning at Newmarket in May. Unbeaten in three runs this season but this was the best of the lot, beating odds on favourite Secret Protector at a canter by 5 lengths. Secret Protector was favourite after a good win in Meydan in February and hasn’t finished outside the top three to date. Inigo Jones finished 3rd by 5^1/2 lengths. Inigo Jones is a good measure of quality because Sir Michael Stoute’s horses have been consistent in picking up results on the all-weather early in the season, so all run to a good standard. Mohafeth’s form shows he has finished ahead of many winners, some of those quite consistent and his physicality is glaring. Jim Crowley never had to move on him in this most recent run, he didn’t waver in the dip at Newmarket showing balance. His action was consistent throughout and the way he pumped his legs forward and changed leg with such ease a sign of great strength. Should definitely be in the picture and has an excellent chance of winning here. Works each way at the time of writing.

8. MOJO STAR

Jockey: David Egan

Trainer: Richard Hannon

Form: 2-2

Finished 2nd twice in two starts. The 2nd of these came against Manobo by ^1/2 a length in a maiden at Newbury in may who looks like a decent prospect. Both races were ran at Newbury so it is yet to be seen if he can cope with undulations and both came on ground with some give. It is a big ask for a horse who has yet to put up a victory however and there are more attractive options here.

9 ONE RULER

Jockey: James Doyle

Trainer: Charlie Appleby

Form: 21312-6

Consistently finished in the top three before coming 6th in the 2000 Guineas in May. He has always looked like a horse who would benefit from a longer trip and has consistently raced against quality. He holds a group three victory but the most notable result being a hard fought effort at Doncaster in October where he finished 2nd to Mac Swiney by ^3/4 of a length. The winner went on to win the Irish 2000 Guineas and this was a group one ran on heavy going. These conditions suited the winner down to the ground. This horse definitely has some quality, because he has been involved in the business end of graded races so often. The team will be hoping that the long distance reduces emphasis on brute power in the finish as this horse has fallen short in the final sprint a few times. He is also drawn in stall 11 which isn’t ideal.

10. SOUTHERN LIGHTS

Jockey: Declan Mcdonogh

Trainer: Joseph O’Brien

Form: 2-16

Only win came at Leopardstown in April where he looked like a horse that could go further than the 1^1/4 mile trip. he travelled well with a breakaway group up front and pulled away well from the remainder in the finish. The horses in behind however haven’t picked up many wins after this result. In a more recent run, this horse finished 6th of 7 runners behind impressive winner Bolshoi Ballet at Leopardstown in May. If this horse is to challenge he needs to show more quality than he has done on paper this far, but that’s not impossible.

11. THIRD REALM

Jockey: Andrea Atzini

Trainer: Rodger Varian

Form: 5-11

Nice winner of the Lingfield Derby trial in May ahead of Adayar by 1^1/4lengths. Appeared to like give in the ground but also has a previous result on good-firm. Showed great balance coming round the final bend and a nice burst of pace in the finish to overcome his rival and it was perhaps more impressive than the winning margin suggests. The doubt here would be that the runner up, although has some ability, appeared to struggle with the nature of the course and was still in with a chance up till the final furlong. Here there will be quality in depth and this horse has a terrible draw in stall 2.

12. YOUTH SPIRIT

Jockey: Tom Marquand

Trainer: Andrew Balding

Form:413-41

Won the group three Chester Vase in May ahead of listed Epsom winner Wirko in 4th (9 lengths), Fancy Man (2^3/4 lengths) and Sandhurst (1^3/4 lengths). These horses aren’t bad but Wirko the horse with the highest achievement in terms of grade faded after setting a solid pace. This horse dealt with the pace well and if there is a ground description of good-soft or softer it will benefit him. Chester can produce Derby horses but as previously mentioned, Fancy Man hasn’t won since being a two year old and here it took a while for the winner to shake him off. He will handle the bends well due to his handy nature but he is quite small and Derby winners tend to be more well rounded than what this horse has shown.

VERDICT

1st MOHAFETH

2nd BOLSHOI BALLET

3rd HURRICANE LANE

Mohafeth and Bolshoi Ballet are difficult to see past and although Bolshoi Ballet probably edges it on paper, Mohafeth has shown excellent stamina and strength all season. This would provide Haggas with his first Derby winner since 1996 and his sire, Frankel, with his first Derby winner. Bolshoi Ballet should be very competitive late on but might just miss out especially if there does turn out to be give in the ground, but his class should see him up there regardless. Hurricane Lane could finish strongly late on showing better stamina than the remainder but not having the speed to get in front after the other two make their initial break from the field.

Birmingham vs Sheffield United Preview Student Work

17th place Birmingham City will take on 6th place Sheffield United at St. Andrews later today.

The home side remain unbeaten in six games against Sheffield United when playing at home and are coming off an important 1-0 victory over Leeds at the weekend.

The home side will be without midfielder Maikel Kieftenbeld after he suffered an injury to his anterior cruciate ligament during the fixture.

Gary Gardner will start after the birth of his child meant a halftime exit against Leeds and Jota will have to settle for a place on the bench for the 4th game in a row.

Birminham City will be hoping that inform striker and former Sheffield United player, Che Adams, will continue his good form as he will look to add to his tally of 25 goals and 15 assists in the league, after scoring against Leeds last time out.

Meanwhile Sheffield United have dropped into 6th after Leeds managed a 2-0 victory over Preston yesterday.

The Blades will have to manage without defender Jack O’Connell for the second game in a row after

a calf injury against Bristol City ten days ago, meanwhile Gary Madine returns from a three game absence after suspension.

Chris Wilder hasn’t managed a win in three fixtures against Birmingham City’s Garry Monk but his Blades side have led 1,228 minutes this season, the most minutes of any team in the Championship this season.

Results around the grounds today:

Hull 2 Wigan 1

Norwich 2 Reading 2

Brentford 2 Ipswich 0

Rotherham 1 Aston Villa 2

Millwall 0 QPR 0

Jonathan Hill reflects on his experience during the Pembrokeshire murder cases

By Luke Hawkins

IN an exclusive discussion, ITV journalist Jonathan Hill talked about his role in the production “The Pembrokeshire Murders” documentary.

Originally the murder of both the Dixons and the Thomas’, by killer John Cooper, was thought to be a “Cold Case” but was found to be active when Hill was called into the station back in 2006.

Hill spoke about his involvement in the case, including his search through the archives for the footage of the killer’s appearance on the game show “Bullseye”.

“What struck me when I looked at it was how similar he looked to the ‘scruffy man’,”

The “scruffy man” was the name given to sketches of the suspect of the killer at the time of the murders in the late 1980’s. Hill continued:

“The person who saw the ‘scruffy man’ using Peter Dixon’s cash card only caught a glimpse of him over the shoulder,”

“I shuttled through the footage and managed to find a moment where the camera was just over Cooper’s shoulder,”

“it struck me that it was a doppelganger, it was the same man.”

Hill also gave his views on whether he ever would have liked to be a detective:

“I get teased in work, they sometimes call me detective inspector Hill,”

“I think (being a journalist) it’s the best place to be.”

“Detective work can be fairly mundane, painstaking, not particularly exciting,”

“also, it’s terrible hours and there is a lot of pressure.”

“I feel lucky to have dipped into this case, I’m interested in the motives and how the detectives solve it,”

“the mindset of the detectives and the science behind it.”

Hill also commented on the possibility of more documentaries being produced soon.

“We’ve been making documentaries with the South Wales police at the moment.”

“The Pembrokeshire Murders documentary opened some door to a lot of other things because people see what you’ve done and feel they can trust you.”

Marcus Rashford: Feeding Britain’s Children –

RASHFORD’S recent good work was covered by the BBC in the documentary that aired in December.

His background is covered well and clearly contributed to his recent actions that has benefited children across the country.

It gave us an insight into the sort of people he is helping as mothers and school children spoke to Rashford on camera.

They were left in a situation without the food because during the Covid 19 pandemic and Rashford took it on himself to do something about it.

His background is covered well and clearly contributed to his recent actions that has benefited children across the country.

It gave us an insight into the sort of people he is helping as mothers and school children spoke to Rashford on camera.

The interviews had an authentic feel, taking place in the schools, parks and homes where the families who benefitted live.

It covers the stories of struggling to make ends meet and struggling to afford feeding their children and other life struggles that are in the background.

Whenever referring to social media the graphics have a basic feel and highlight the cruel nature of some people online.

We also get first hand glimpses inside the meetings that matter, where Rashford makes big decisions on the next steps to make the government do more for hungry children.

Most of all, it sums up the pressures Rashford faces on and off the pitch.

The way the documentary uses clips from football matches, authentic material filmed first- hand and the graphics to display social media interaction clearly makes it feel like all mediums are covered.

By the end we see the full affect of Rashford’s actions and how his good will has spread amongst thousands of people in the UK.

His charity work with Fareshare ended up raising £20 million for the cause, feeding around 3 million families.

This programme did a great job making us feel like we met those families.

Below find the link to BBCiPlayer to watch the full documentary:

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/m000qq41/marcus-rashford-feeding-britains-children