Monday Evening Sport Update

Monday, 19 December 2022 17:10

By Clem Ryan

Benzema's International Retirement; Meath 1967 Football Capt Peter Darby RIP; Borthwick New England Rugby Coach; Galopin Des Champs wins John Durkan - 5th consecutive win for Willie Mullins

Karim Benzema has retired from international football.

The Real Madrid striker missed the World Cup through injury, having only returned to the France squad after a six-year absence last year.

Benzema scored 37 times in 97 caps.

The Republic of Ireland open their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign at home to France on March 27th.

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Colin O’Riordan is reportedly considering a return to the Tipperary football panel.

A chronic hip injury brought the former Sydney Swans player’s AFL career to an end in August.

O’Riordan helped Tipp win a famous Munster title in 2020, and trained with the Premier footballers at the weekend according to the Irish Examiner.

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Tributes have been paid to Meath’s 1967 All Ireland-winning captain Peter Darby, who has died.

Darby won three Leinster football titles, and the dual star also helped Trim win five county hurling championships.

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Steve Borthwick has been appointed as England’s head rugby coach, succeeding Eddie Jones on a five-year contract.

Borthwick Leicester to the Premiership title last season.

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2021 champion Gerwyn Price opens his account at this year’s PDC World Darts Championship tonight.

The Welshman takes on Luke Woodhouse in the final match of the night at Alexandra Palace.

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Galopin des Champs has given trainer Willie Mullins a fifth consecutive win in the John Durkan Memorial Chase at Punchestown.

The odd-on favourite won by 13-lengths in today’s Grade One under jockey Paul Townend.