Wednesday Lunch Sports Update: Shamrock Rovers To Play Their Opening League Game In Front Of Fans.

FAI "set aside" the decision to play the game behind closed doors.

SOCCER

Shamrock Rovers will be able to play their opening league game in front of fans at Tallaght Stadium after the FAI "set aside" the decision to play the game behind closed doors.

The Hoops were punished for the actions of a member of their travelling support away at Waterford last season match.

However, a statement released by the FAI today confirmed that Rovers will be able to have fans present for their clash with UCD on 18 February 18^th

But, Rovers fine been increased to €5000.

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In the Premier League this evening:

Leaders Manchester City can move 12 points clear at the top if they beat Brentord.

Norwich take on Crystal Palace, while Tottenham welcome Southampton to north London.

Aston Villa host Leeds ahead of fixtures against fellow strugglers Newcastle and Watford.

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Chelsea are in Club World Cup semi-final action  at 4.30 today against Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia in Abu Dhabi.

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In the Scottish Premiership tonight, Celtic are away to Aberdeen

They're one point clear of Rangers who host Hibernian.

WINTER OLYMPICS
Seamus O'Connor has recorded a 15th place finish in the snowboarding half pipe competition at the Winter Olympics in Beijing.

The American-born 24-year-old is is the first Team Ireland athlete to have competed at three Winter games.

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RUGBY
Munster's United Rugby Championship matches in South Africa have been fixed for mid-March.

They'll play the Bulls on March 12th, with a clash against the Lions a week later.

The original fixtures were postponed due to Covid-19 late last year.

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FORMULA ONE

Lando Norris has committed his future to McLaren.

The British driver has signed a new contract until 2025.

Norris - who is only 22 - says his ambition is to 'win championships'.

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RACING

Today’s racing is in Fairyhouse.