Yankuba Minteh scored the only goal of the game as Brighton clinched a 1-0 win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

An end-to-end first half saw both teams have great opportunities in the opening moments, with Jack Hinshelwood superbly denied by Melker Ellborg and Lewis Dunk making a goal-line stop from Chemsdine Talbi.

Chris Rigg had a goal ruled out for offside early in the second half and Brighton took the lead through Minteh’s effort from a narrow angle.

The Seagulls held on to return to winning ways in the Premier League following defeat to Arsenal last week and have now reached 40 points, while Sunderland slip to a third straight loss at home.

Sunderland made four changes to the team beaten by Port Vale in the FA Cup, which included the return of striker Brian Brobbey from injury, while captain Dunk lined up for Brighton as one of four changes from the Arsenal match.

Ellborg made an excellent save in the ninth minute when Minteh’s teasing ball into the six-yard area was met by Hinshelwood, but his first-time effort was stopped by the outstretched leg of the Sunderland goalkeeper.

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From the resulting corner, Pascal Gross blasted narrowly wide and the Black Cats came close moments later when Rigg’s cross into the box was flicked towards Talbi and Dunk made a goal-line clearance from the winger’s powerful strike.

Omar Alderete had an ambitious effort comfortably held by Bart Verbruggen and Sunderland were forced to clear their lines as Brighton had multiple shots pinball around the box.

Noah Sadiki had two attempts before former Sunderland striker Danny Welbeck laid a neat pass in for Hinshelwood, but his tame effort was saved by Ellborg and Jan Paul van Hecke’s hooked shot from a corner was cleared.

The hosts had a good string of chances before half-time when Habib Diarra’s cross into Brobbey was booted away by the Seagulls defence and Rigg sliced an overhead kick wide before Lutsharel Geertruida forced Verbruggen to push a shot away.

Sunderland started the second half brightly and Rigg’s strike four minutes in was chalked off by VAR after Alderete was ruled offside in the build-up.

After putting the Seagulls under pressure from a goal-kick, Brobbey fired over the bar, but Brighton began to work back into the game.

The visitors went ahead in the 58th minute when a corner was quickly recycled and Minteh, formerly on the books of Sunderland’s rivals Newcastle, squeezing an attempt from a tight angle in at the near post.

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Sunderland suffered a blow as defender Dan Ballard was unable to continue and they pressed for an equaliser when Trai Hume fired over the crossbar.

Brighton found themselves in a promising position but Diego Gomez blasted over and at the opposite end, Verbruggen made a great save to claw Alderete’s header away.

Sunderland found themselves frustrated as the Seagulls cleared successive free-kicks and Dennis Cirkin hooked the ball over in stoppage time as the visitors managed the final stages to move 10th in the table.

The Mick Price and Michael Kent Jnr team are brimming with optimism for Phillip Island as he gears up for a debut in a high-stakes race at Caulfield.

In the $1m The Showdown (1200m), Port Phillip will launch his career while still eligible for the Golden Slipper at Rosehill next week, though it’s improbable he’ll run there.

Kent Jnr revealed elevated hopes for Phillip Island based on a solid opening to the two-year-old term with their youngsters.

Among the juveniles shining through the Price and Kent Jnr pipeline this year are Big Sky, Guest House and Brazen Dechambeau, with Kent Jnr placing Port Phillip in similar regard.

“Every year we have around 80 two-year-olds that go through the system and as trainers you can rank them in a pecking order,” Kent Jnr said.

“When your so-called top three don’t fire in certain years, you are concerned about the rest, but when your so-called top three start winning races and showing they’re amongst the best in the country, that gives you confidence about the horses just below that top tier.

This colt is in that category we think and I’m looking forward to him stepping out.”

Phillip Island enters Saturday’s race with just one trial under his belt this preparation, taking that hit-out at Caulfield Heath ridden by Craig Williams last month.

Unavailable in Sydney, Williams cedes the ride to Jamie Melham on Saturday.

“We’re going in off one trial, but he trialled really well, and he arguably trialled just as well, or if not better, than Buggsy that won (at Sandown) on Wednesday,” Kent Jnr said.

“Craig Williams really liked him and we’re under no illusions that it’s a hard test.

He is a highly strung horse and we’re asking a lot of him to get it right, but there are only three winners in the race and a number of debutants, like us.

The test may be running out a strong 1200 (metres) off one trial, but the upside of the prize money, in a restricted race, was a huge carrot to have a go at and it would be no surprise to see him run really well.

He’s a nice colt.”

Discover competitive racing betting markets ahead of The Showdown.

Ireland defeated Scotland 43-21 in the Guinness Six Nations at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday and sealed the Triple Crown in the process.

Andy Farrell’s men scored a total of six tries tries, with Jack Crowley converting five of them, as well as adding a penalty, as the hosts claimed a 73rd victory over the Celtic neighbours, and their 11th Triple Crown.

By the end of the game, Ireland sat atop the Guinness Six Nations table, but with further games to come later today, France still have to be favourites to be crowned Guinness Six Nations champions for 2026.

Ireland set early pace

Ireland began the game at break-neck pace and were on the scoreboard within 4 minutes thanks to Jamie Osborne. With the hosts pressurising the Scottish defence which was pegged on their own line, the Ireland fullback ran a great line to touch down underneath the posts.

Jack Crowley, with his first kick at goal, converted a relatively standard effort for a 7-0 lead for Andy Farrell’s side.

🏉 𝐓𝐑𝐘! Jamie Osborne!

Ireland go quickly off the top after the penalty, neat passes from Doris and Crowley see Osborne crash over under the posts! 🔥 Conversion by Jack Crowley

IRELAND 7 – 0 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/C0j5ZduKx6

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

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Graham crosses over for Scots

The Ireland score seemed to kick the Scots into gear and immediately went on the attack. The Scottish offence went left and then back to the right-hand side of the field to find Darcy Graham. The Scotland record try-scorer added to his record to the delight of the large and vocal travelling fans in the stadium. Despite a difficult position out on the touchline, the ever accurate Finn Russell converted to level the score.

🏉 SCOTLAND STRIKES!

Finn Russell’s slick passing frees Graham for the right corner 🔥

IRELAND 7 – 7 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/f8ioXEoVCg

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

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Sheehan crashes over for try

The pace of the game was maintained by Ireland who soon found themselves deep inside Scottish territory. With a Scottish player speaking out of turn, his side was penalised 10 yards.

Ireland kicked for touch, won the ensuing lineout comfortably, and hooker Dan Sheehan scored his 18th international five-pointer as he crashed over from close range.
A more difficult kick for Crowley this time sailed between the posts for the Cork Constitution man to maintain his 100% record of goal kicking to that stage of the game. Ireland were 14-7 ahead, having scored two converted tries, but they were only 11 minutes played.

𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐀 𝐓𝐑𝐘! 🏉🔥

Dan Sheehan Powers over from a few metres out after a strong maul

IRELAND 14 – 7 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/NON8zeg9qg

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— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Baloucoune shows his speed

Speedster Rob Baloucoune was next to get in on the try-scoring act. With the home side on the attack, the winger initially found himself unmarked on the West Stand side of the ground, and once he received possession of the ball, he put on the burners before stretching for the line. Keeping his feet high and in play, the Ulsterman successfully touched the ball down for 19-7. Crowley missed his first kick at the posts when attempting to convert his side’s third try of the opening quarter.

🏉 𝐄𝐱𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡!

Robert Baloucoune blazes over from 30 metres!

IRELAND 19 SCOTLAND 7#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/G50dL7ixl2

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— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Half-time: Ireland 19 Scotland 7

It was first blood to the Scots in the second period. With momentum in their favour, Finn Russell scored his side’s second try of the game, before then converting his own five-pointer. The visitors had now reduced the difference on the scoreboard to 19-14.

🏉 𝗦𝗖𝗢𝗧𝗟𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗗𝗦!

Russell fools the defence and crashes over near the corner!#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/aJxUtMdtDA

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

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Try for Murray on Six Nations debut

Connacht’s Darragh Murray made a dream Guinness Six Nations debut. Not long on the field following the exit of Tadhg Beirne for a HIA. The Buccaneers’ man claimed the bonus-point try for his side during a short period of time on the field. With Crowley adding the extras, it looked as though Ireland was about to move well ahead of the Scots.

𝐖𝐇𝐀𝐓 𝐀 𝐃𝐄𝐁𝐔𝐓!

Murray crosses the line brilliantly under Dempsey!

IRELAND 24 – 14 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/vuNYQlnAj5

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

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Despite a 26-14 score line, the visitors replied with another converted try. Rory Darge, the Scottish vice-captain crossed over for the score, before Russell kicked his third conversion of the afternoon. It was now 26-21 with over 20 minutes left to play on the match clock.

Ireland replacements

With 14 minutes to play, the Ireland management made six replacements. The entire front row was changed, Murray came back on – this time for Joe McCarthy – Ciarán Frawley and Bundee Aki entered the fray in place of Garry Ringrose and Rob Baloucoune.

Two-try O’Brien

Tommy O’Brien added a fifth Irish try, and his 7th in the green jersey, when crossing over on 68 minutes. Crowley converted the score to move his side out to a 33-21 lead. Crowley soon scored a penalty – his first of the game – and Ireland were well in control on the scoreboard, 36-21.

O’Brien showed his fantastic pace to add a scored try just at the death. With all the pressure off, and victory assured, Crowley converted a tricky attempt for Ireland to run out victorious on a 43-21 score line, and claim the Triple Crown.

𝐎’𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞! 🔥

Tommy O’Brien tears through the Scottish defence!

IRELAND 31 – 21 SCOTLAND#IREvSCO | #GuinnessM6N pic.twitter.com/lDjgwDaduW

— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) March 14, 2026

Final score: Ireland 43 Scotland 21

LiveScores Now Available at IrishScores.com

It wasn’t a calculated decision for Shohisha’s owners to have her contest the Group 1 Coolmore Classic second-up, but history suggests it could pay dividends if she recreates her prior efforts.

The four-year-old mare has triumphed in three of four second-up assignments and, post a minor problem, David Payne is satisfied she is set to hit top form at Rosehill Gardens on Saturday.

“She had a few setbacks along the way so that held us back a little bit,” Payne said.

“She just kicked the box. Nothing serious, but once you treat them you can’t run them.

“We’re very happy with her. She is spot-on for Saturday.”

Having won four races in total, Shohisha came back firing with fourth to her Coolmore Classic (1500m) adversary Verona Rose in the Guy Walter Stakes (1500m) back on February 28.

At the weights, she receives 4kg from that mare and has barrier six, allowing a midfield beginning.

Payne’s narrowest miss in the Coolmore Classic was Gallant Tess taking third behind Typhoon Tracy in 2009, understanding that race luck will determine Shohisha’s chances.

“I think she will be competitive. We’re going in happy with her, but in racing, you always need luck in running so hopefully it goes our way,” he said.

“We have been patient with her. We haven’t pushed her. We’ve just let her mature a bit because she was a light-framed baby.”

In addition, the veteran conditioner lines up Persian Wonder in the Pago Pago Stakes (1200m), aiming for it to build towards mile targets in the upcoming carnival.

“I doubt he could win that over 1200, but he will be running on strongly. They just might be a bit sharp for him,” Payne said.

“He needs racing because he will be more effective over 1600 metres in those kind of races like the Fernhill Handicap or the Champagne Stakes.”

Don’t miss the betting markets for the race at trusted betting sites for the Coolmore Classic.

India has revised the list of athletes under its flagship high-performance programme, the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS), adding several athletes who delivered strong performances in 2025. The updated list is expected to strengthen India’s preparations for major international competitions, including the Asian Games and the 2028 Summer Olympics qualification cycle.

The revision comes after delays caused by administrative reviews last year, when authorities detected certain anomalies in the earlier list. The updated selections aim to ensure that athletes in strong form receive timely support, training opportunities, and financial assistance.

What is the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS)?

The Target Olympic Podium Scheme is a government initiative launched by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (India) to help elite Indian athletes prepare for the Olympic Games and other major international tournaments.

The programme focuses on athletes with strong medal prospects and provides comprehensive assistance, including:

• 
  Financial stipends
• 
  Personal coaching support
• 
  International training exposure
• 
  Sports science and medical support
• 
  Equipment and infrastructure access

Athletes placed in the TOPS Core Group receive a monthly stipend of ₹50,000, while those in the development group receive ₹25,000 per month, along with access to training and competition opportunities.

Key shooting stars added to the TOPS core group

Shooting was one of the biggest beneficiaries of the revised list. Several athletes who delivered notable performances on the international circuit in 2025 were included in the core group.

Among them is Samrat Rana, the 10m air pistol world champion, whose consistent results at top-level competitions earned him a place in the scheme.

Young shooter Suruchi Phogat was also added after impressing across multiple stages of the ISSF World Cup circuit. Another shooter, Niraj Kumar, who finished fifth at the ISSF World Shooting Championships, has also been inducted into the core group.

These inclusions highlight the government’s effort to strengthen India’s shooting contingent ahead of future global events.

Athletics and boxing performers promoted

In athletics, long-distance runner Gulveer Singh has been promoted to the core group after breaking national records in both the 5,000 metres and 10,000 metres events.

In boxing, world champion Jasmine Lamboria, who competes in the 57kg category, has been upgraded from the development group to the TOPS core list following her recent international success.

Badminton and para-sports additions

In badminton, the mixed doubles pair of Tanisha Crasto and Dhruv Kapila have also been included in the core group. The duo has consistently maintained a position within the world’s top 20 rankings.

Athletes added to the Target Asian Games Group (TAGG)

Apart from the TOPS programme, the government also maintains the Target Asian Games Group (TAGG), which focuses specifically on athletes with medal potential at the Asian Games.

The TAGG list provides similar forms of support, including coaching assistance, training camps, and international exposure.

Athletes included in the updated TAGG list include:

• 
  Annu Rani (javelin throw)
• 
  Joshna Chinappa (squash)
• 
  D Suresh (tennis)
• 
  Anjali Jakhar (cycling)

 
ALSO READ: Asian Para Games 2023: India create history, win 111 medals in Hangzhou 
 

Notable athletes missing from the revised list

Despite the additions, some prominent athletes were surprised to find their names missing from the updated programme.

Those excluded from the revised list include:

Deepak Punia (wrestling)

H. S. Prannoy (badminton)

Shiva Narwal (shooting)

Divyansh Singh Panwar (shooting)

Their absence has generated some discussion within sporting circles, especially given their previous international performances. 

Strengthening India’s Olympic and Asian Games preparation

Following the revision, the updated programme now includes:

56 athletes in the TOPS core group

61 athletes in the para TOPS core group

130 athletes in the development group

54 athletes in the TAGG list

Officials believe the refreshed roster will improve India’s preparations for major upcoming competitions, particularly the Asian Games and the Olympic qualification events leading up to Los Angeles 2028.

A former WWE World Champion recently dropped a bombshell that he was being blocked from signing with AEW at the end of his contract in 2019. Recently, this star gave much detail on his run with the Stamford-based promotion, where at one point the company felt like he was moving to Tony Khan’s promotion.

The star in the spotlight is Nic Nemeth, fka Dolph Ziggler. The latter has been competing in TNA for the past few years following his release from WWE back in September 2023. He had an incredible run in the juggernaut of sports entertainment, where he became a fan favorite and a World Heavyweight Champion. However, Ziggler recently revealed backstage politics by WWE to stop him from joining AEW in 2019.

Speaking with Jonathan Coachman on Off The Ropes, Nemeth revealed that in 2019, when his contract was about to expire, he asked for a hefty amount from WWE, something that he believed the company would never agree on. However, without any major negotiations, the Stamford-based promotion agreed. The former WWE star said that it was clear that the company was trying to stop him from signing with All Elite Wrestling.

“My last contract was to keep me from going to AEW. That was it. It was winked at and not said, but it was completely understood. I’m like, I’m asking for this elaborate amount because I know you won’t pay me what I’m worth. I’m going to make a move and go elsewhere. They’re like, ‘Nope, we’ll do it.’ I’m like, ‘What? Okay,” said Nemeth. [H/T: Ringside News]

Check out Nemeth’s comments below:

The Jacksonville-based promotion was gaining momentum at that time, and Nemeth’s addition to its roster could have done wonders for the company. The Stamford-based promotion knew that, and that is why they couldn’t let go of the former World Champion during that time.

Former WWE star Nic Nemeth called out Conor McGregor on social media

Nic Nemeth has faced several big legends in pro-wrestling in his epic career. He has squared off with names like John Cena, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and other massive stars. But recently, a fan on X asked the former World Champion who his dream opponent is that he wants to square off with down the line.

Shockingly, Nemeth called out Conor McGregor with a challenge of his own. It was an interesting response to the dream opponent’s question for the former WWE star that managed to make a lot of buzz on social media.

Well, only time will tell if Nic Nemeth will be able to square off with the UFC superstar somewhere down the line. For now, the 45-year-old looks to focus on his work with TNA Wrestling.