Latest news with #historicwin
Irish Times
3 days ago
- Sport
- Irish Times
Hugo Keenan savours ‘special moment' as his try clinches Lions series win
As long as he lives, Hugo Keenan will always have the MCG and his last minute to seal a Lions Test series win. It was so good, so historic and the picture of him being held shoulder high by team-mates so iconic, that the players had him re-enact his finish when they congregated on the pitch long after the final whistle. It was a better try than it even seemed at the time, beginning with Jamison Gibson-Park deciding and executing a sharp pass to his Leinster and Irish team-mate, and Keenan standing Len Ikitau up with his footwork to create the space on the outside – helped by Jack Conan holding is width – for the finish. This won't be the only night in his life Keenan will get to celebrate this try. 'It's a bit surreal,' he admitted afterwards. 'It was a class moment. It was off the back two minutes of phase attack, the lads digging deep. It meant the world to myself and everybody that was out there, the 23, the lads who weren't playing, the backroom staff, the 50,000 Lions supporters out there and everyone at home. It's a really special moment.' READ MORE HUGO KEENAN WINS IT FOR THE LIONS! 🦁 — Sky Sports (@SkySports) Andy Farrell had earlier admitted he had been imploring Keenan to pass to Conan. 'I was screaming: 'Pass it. Pass it. Pass it!' And knowing Hugo, he was never going to pass it! He was always going to back himself. I spoke to his dad [Paul] after the game and he was never going to pass it. He backs himself in those types of situations.' Keenan laughed when this was put to him. 'He [Farrell] mentioned it after. I think he backed me at the end. Jack was outside and I think he would have finished it himself, but where there is a will there is a way.' The high point of Keenan's highlights reel was all the more satisfying given he'd been laid low for 10 days and lost several kilos due to a stomach bug which also led to a delayed and off-colour Lions debut against the Waratahs three weeks ago. 'It's been a mad whole trip. It's not how I imagined it going, getting sick for two weeks and coming in to camp a bit injured. It's been a rollercoaster, but I suppose these things happen for a reason, and thankfully I was in full health come the last two Tests. 'I'm delighted to be involved and delighted that we got the result today. It's special moments having our family and friends out on the pitch with us at the end. It's those moments you play rugby for and you dream of.' Lions Hugo Keenan and Ellis Genge celebrate in the dressingroom after the match. Photograph: Dan Sheridan/Inpho Admittedly, there had been a few moments when it seemed Keenan's try might be over-ruled as the officials reviewed Jac Morgan's clearout on Carlo Tizzano, but the try-scorer maintained otherwise. 'To be honest, once I saw the clearout, I was pretty confident. I don't think there was any foul play in it and I was confident that the refs would make the right call. It was just relief, delighted and ecstatic that we got over the line. A cool moment.' Afterwards, before re-enacting his try, Keenan could also be seen jumping into a section of the crowd. 'I jumped in a few times! It was unbelievable walking around the stadium. My parents were there, my brother, my uncle and aunt, my girlfriend. I've about ten friends over from Ireland who have spent a bomb to be here but they are all saying it is absolutely worth it. Really cool moments which make it extra special.' As for it being the highlight of his career so far? 'It's definitely up there. How could it not be? The Lions is the pinnacle for a Britain and Ireland rugby player, and to win a series is incredibly special. It's there or thereabouts. I'm absolutely delighted and it is extra special to do it with such a good bunch and so many familiar faces in the crowd.' Talk of winning the series three-nil could wait, for 24 hours anyway. 'I think we'll enjoy tonight and celebrate what we have achieved so far. I'm sure come Monday morning, when we turn the page, it'll all be about finishing it the right way.'
Yahoo
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
2025 WWE Money in the Bank champ Naomi opens up about sharing the journey with Big E
Professional wrestler Naomi, born Trinity Fatu, came through and served at the 2025 BET Awards with her husband, Jimmy Uso, showcasing her rightfully deserved (and long overdue) trophy from winning the six-woman ladder match at WWE Money in the Bank just two days prior. Trending Advertisement Not only was this a huge moment for her fans, but it was also the first time in history that a Black woman won the briefcase. Post-match, the WWE veteran was met with words of love and encouragement from WWE commentator and former WWE Champion, Big E, who, coincidentally, was the first Black man to win the achievement. The SmackDown superstar stopped to chat with REVOLT on the BET red carpet about the historic win. 'I feel very validated, which is something [important] as a competitor and performer in this business. Being surrounded by so much incredible talent is something we tend to strive for,' she shared. Advertisement 'Starting this journey a week after Big E,' the Florida native began. 'Sixteen years ago, and going through a different process than what we see today in 'NXT,' it meant a lot because he knows me and has seen the whole journey. He's seen the struggles, the setbacks, and we are very close. And he's close to my husband, so it really touched me.' Of course, we had to ask 2025's Mrs. Money in the Bank who was on her hitlist for the big cash-in moment. After letting the suspense build for a moment, she spilled the beans on who she's had her eye on. 'I've been watching Tiffany Stratton,' she said, with a knowing smile. 'She's had it coming. She's been messing with me all year, so I haven't forgotten.' However, she's never been one to limit her options. Advertisement 'Her time is up. But honestly, I could cash in on anyone, and that's got me thinking. I've never held the RAW Women's World Championship, so Iyo Sky's got something I want, too. You'll just have to tune in.' Before wrapping up the interview, the former Orlando Magic dancer touched on the evolution of representation in WWE, specifically how Black women are finally being given space to shine in ways we didn't always see in the early 2000s, when veteran stars like Alicia Fox, Jacqueline, and Jazz weren't given the spotlight they deserved. 'It feels incredible. One thing I always stick to is this: The talent speaks for itself. The cream always rises, no matter how long it takes,' she said. 'If you stay focused and earn it, I'm living proof that it'll happen for you.' Advertisement You Might Also Like
The Guardian
15-07-2025
- Sport
- The Guardian
How Poland's Euro 2025 showing transformed a nation's view of women's football
As Poland were on their way to a historic Euro 2025 win over Denmark the commentator on national TV encouraged people to visit the website of a Polish FA campaign called 'Girls' Team', which is designed to help young girls find a team to train with. There was such a rush to the website the server broke down. That would have been unthinkable only a few months ago but the Polish team that played in their first Euros, scored their first goal and secured their first win at the tournament have changed the perception of women's football in the country for ever. 'One of the key goals was to leave the best possible impression and to get little girls interested in the sport,' said the coach, Nina Patalon, after the 3-2 win against Denmark. 'That was our biggest responsibility at our first Euros.' They did just that. Before the tournament the record viewing figure for a women's football game on national TV was 600,000, for the decisive playoff against Austria. With momentum building, a whopping two million people tuned into the opening match against Germany, where Poland produced a feisty display and were somewhat unlucky to lose 2-0. By comparison, the men's national team's match against the Netherlands at Euro 2024 was watched by nine million people. But the men's team have lost some of their allure. Their performances at major tournaments have been a source of frustration for Poles. Recently Robert Lewandowski quit in a fit of pique after losing the captaincy, a row that ended with the coach, Michal Probierz, resigning. It wasn't pretty. The women, meanwhile, have captured the hearts of a nation. One of the biggest sports portals, wrote: 'The Polish women were debutants. They are still at the beginning of their journey. It is still a stage where the saying 'we are learning, we are gaining experience' is not a bad excuse, but the honest truth. The fact that they didn't finish last in such a difficult group, were able to score three goals and win a game, is a surprise that needs to be appreciated. The Euros, but also everything that has happened over the last year, builds hope that the best is coming.' Poland followed up defeat against Germany with another loss, this time 3-0 against Sweden, before the cathartic victory over Denmark. 'I hope we will experience these moments more often,' said Ewa Pajor, the team's star striker, who plays her club football for Barcelona. 'I am proud that we could feel the taste of victory at the European Championships. I know that this is a step on the road to further development.' The West Ham goalkeeper Kinga Szemik told the Guardian: 'I hope that our participation at the Euros is another milestone in propagating the sport and changing the mentality of Polish people. Like we said from the beginning, one of the main goals for us was to help younger generations of girls so if they choose playing football, it'll be much more accessible and easier for them.' It has been quite an achievement by the team. A year ago no one believed they would even get to the Euros. And that was not only the experts but also the Polish FA and Nike, who did not plan a special kit for the team. When qualification was secured Nike said that there was not enough time to produce a new jersey. So Poland were the only country at the 16-side tournament who were playing in an old design. Now, though, the country is looking forward. Poland submitted an application to host this year's Euros but lost out to Switzerland. They will soon apply to organise the 2029 tournament and should they succeed it will be the first time the women's Euros are held in eastern Europe. It brings back memories of 2012, when Poland co-hosted the men's Euros together with Ukraine. The 'Euro effect' is still talked about in Poland, the success of the event having exceeded all expectations. The impact of the Euros on the economy, the development of tourism and the country's image was invaluable. When Patalon was asked before the tournament what would be the biggest success at Euro 2025, the coach said that the team's performance would contribute towards the number of registered female players growing from 30,000 to 300,000. After the final game against Denmark she said: 'It is worth falling in love with our team. My team has presented something that can be a fertiliser for little girls to fall in love with football. They are role models.' This is just the beginning and one of the best things is that Poland is now a country where girls and boys have new idols. In addition to the Lewandowski or Piotr Zielinski shirts already being worn in the street, those bearing the names of Pajor or Natalia Padilla-Bidas will become more common. India on the rise: India have advanced to the AFC Women's Asian Cup in Australia and will be back in the tournament after 23 years. Those involved in women's football in India believe the achievement will aid growth and interest in the women's game in the country. But this is not the end of the dream: the team's next goal is to qualify for the World Cup. Down to the last eight: It is not only in Europe that the battle for continental supremecy is ongoing but in Africa too. The Wafcon winners' prize money has doubled to $1m (£750,000) and these teams are still in contention: Morocco, Mali, Algeria, Ghana, Nigeria, Zambia, South Africa and Senegal. Faye Carruthers is joined by Suzy Wrack, Tom Garry and Tanya Oxtoby to discuss England's dominant win against Wales, France's comeback, and the final twists in the Euro 2025 group stage. Listen here. What a Copa América Femenina debut by the 17-year-old Claudia Martínez, who scored three goals in Paraguay's 4-0 win over Bolivia to become the youngest scorer in the history of the competition. It's the direction the women's game is going in, and it's great to see. It's proof that women's footballers are great, and that is the way the game is going, so long may that continue' – Lauren Hemp on Liverpool's Olivia Smith becoming the first female footballer to attract a £1m fee. A new book, Florrie: a football love story, has been published to coincide with the Euros. It is a queer historical graphic novel set around the FA's 1921 ban and begins with Florrie's great-niece discovering Florrie was secretly a footballer in the early 20th century. Florrie fell in love with the game, and another player, and played in huge matches both in England and in France. The book explores the joy of playing football, and the devastating consequences when it is taken away. Sophie Downey has looked at the performances of the 16 teams at the Euros and produced her own power rankings with, perhaps unsurprisingly, Spain top but is that Sweden in second? Talking of Peter Gerhardsson's side, they should not be underestimated, according to the England captain, Leah Williamson, before their quarter-final on Thursday. Elis James wrote about what it was like following Wales's 'pioneers' at the Euros. And before the England v Wales game, Emma Hayes wrote about the dos and don'ts of being in a tournament bubble.
ABC News
15-07-2025
- Sport
- ABC News
Australia's record cricket win in Jamaica
Andy Park: Now to Jamaica, where wickets tumbled and so did the records as the Australian men's Test cricket team completed one of its most historic wins over the West Indies. Questions had been raised over the Australians' ability prior to the series starting. They've now been answered emphatically as they surge to a 3-0 win. But this memorable result could be the last of its kind as the future of the Caribbean Test match tour is being pondered by other powerhouse cricketing nations. Myles Houlbrook-Walk prepared this report. Myles Houlbrook-Walk: There's a distinctive rhythm to the calypso music of the Caribbean. The Australian cricket team as well seemed to be hitting every right note in Jamaica when they overwhelmed the West Indies. Cricket Commentary: Stark bowling to Jayden Seales. Left arm bowled in! And that seals the deal! Myles Houlbrook-Walk: The Australian side whitewashed the West Indies 3-0, dismissing them in the final innings for 27 runs, the second lowest score ever in the 147-year history of international Test cricket. Tom Decent is a sports journalist for the Sydney Morning Herald and watched on in the stands. Tom Decent: Nothing short of remarkable. I mean, no one could have foreseen the magnitude of that win. Mitchell Stark, obviously, with three wickets in the opening over. And just when we thought it was going to be Mitchell Stark's day, Scott Boland comes in and jags his first hat-trick. Myles Houlbrook-Walk: That hat-trick from Scott Boland, where he took three wickets in three balls, was the first by an Australian in a Test match in 15 years. Speaker 4: Warwick can't await! He knocks him over! Boland's got a hat-trick! Myles Houlbrook-Walk: Mitchell Stark, meantime, took five wickets in just 15 balls. He spoke to ESPN after the game. Mitchell Starc: It's been a fantastic series. I think we've seen some difficult batting conditions throughout, but a fantastic series for us. It's been a good few days. I'm very enjoyable. So yeah, I'll go home with a smile on my face. Myles Houlbrook-Walk: Tom Decent says while the achievements of the Aussies are to be admired, it comes at a time where Test cricket is stagnating in the West Indies. Tom Decent: With the absolute greatest respect to the West Indies, they're a pretty ordinary cricket team at the moment. This is not the West Indie side from 1995 or the early 80s who came and conquered and beat Australia. Myles Houlbrook-Walk: And while Jamaica played host to an historic moment, there's questions over whether this series could have been Australia's final Test tour of the West Indies. Carl Hooper is a former West Indian cricketer and now commentates for the ABC. Carl Hooper: When are we going to see Australia again on our shores or a West Indies team on these shores, the way the financial model works? I don't know. I mean, you want now to host India and England. So where does West Indies cricket go from here? I don't know. Myles Houlbrook-Walk: Carl Hooper isn't the only person pondering that question. Tom Decent from the Sydney Morning Herald says there's limited financial returns for Australia and other large nations in hosting or visiting the West Indies. Tom Decent: The International Cricket Council is looking at whether or not they try and pit the best teams against each other. More often, the Indies or Englands and the lower teams will have to fend for themselves. Myles Houlbrook-Walk: But for now, Australia and hat-trick hero Scott Boland are soaking up the victory. Tom Decent: Amazing feeling. I've never been involved in a game where we've bowled a team out for 27. Andy Park: Test quick, Scott Boland ending that report by Myles Houlbrook-Walk.
Yahoo
12-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Yankees pull off historic win no one saw coming vs. Mariners
The post Yankees pull off historic win no one saw coming vs. Mariners appeared first on ClutchPoints. The New York Yankees have played a lot of baseball over the last century, but Thursday night in the Bronx, they delivered one of the most improbable wins in franchise history. Facing a 5-0 deficit and being no-hit by Bryan Woo through seven innings, New York somehow pulled off a dramatic 6-5 walk-off win in extra innings to sweep the Seattle Mariners. Advertisement According to OptaSTATS, the Yankees' comeback ranks among the rarest in modern MLB history, underscoring just how improbable their rally truly was. 'The @Yankees were trailing 5-0 with no hits entering the 8th inning tonight. They came back to win, 6-5.' Only one other team in the last 50 years, the 1977 Pirates, has ever pulled off a win after being down by five or more runs and hitless through seven innings. That stat alone elevates this game into historic win territory. Woo was in complete control for Seattle, retiring 20 consecutive batters after issuing two early walks. He took a no-hitter into the eighth inning before Jazz Chisholm Jr. finally broke it up with a leadoff single. That sparked a chain reaction. Ben Rice singled, Austin Wells hit a sac fly, and Giancarlo Stanton launched a pinch-hit two-run homer off reliever Matt Brash to cut the deficit to 5-3. Advertisement The real drama unfolded in the ninth. Down to their final strike against All-Star closer Andres Munoz, Wells came through again with a clutch two-run single to tie the game. The Yankees had life. In the 10th, Aaron Judge's walk-off sacrifice fly brought home Anthony Volpe, who slid around the tag in dramatic fashion to seal the win. The victory was just New York's second extra-inning win of the season, but easily its most meaningful. It extended the team's win streak to four games and completed a three-game sweep of a playoff-caliber Mariners squad. The comeback couldn't have come at a better time. After a scorching start to the season, New York had stumbled to an 11-16 record over their last 27 games. But now, with the All-Star break looming, they've gained momentum and closed the gap in the AL East to just two games behind the division-leading Toronto Blue Jays. Thursday night's win was more than just another tally in the standings — it felt like a potential turning point. The Yankees showed resilience, delivered in key moments, and executed when it mattered most, all hallmarks of a team with postseason aspirations. The historical parallels to the 1977 Pirates only elevate the legend of what unfolded in the Bronx. Advertisement In a long season, games like this aren't just remembered — they redefine momentum. And for the Bronx Bombers, it may have come at the perfect time. Related: MLB rumors: The DJ LeMahieu reason a Eugenio Suarez trade makes sense for Yankees Related: What Aaron Judge is 'glad' about after Yankees' historic comeback vs. Mariners
