Grotesque abuse hurled at Cyrus Christie online came to the fore this week, the latest example of how football, and sport in general, continues to battle the scourge of racism.

Signed by an outgoing coach, Munster new boy Sean Dougall had more than most to prove to incoming boss Rob Penney when the New Zealanader succeeded Tony McGahan this summer.

THE FAI have confirmed that they have lodged a complaint with RTÉ concerning a July 16 edition of ‘Saturday Sport’ on Radio One which has seen the programme’s presenter Des Cahill effectively blackballed by the association.

Sean McCaffrey’s U19 Ireland side have defeated reigning European Champions, Ukraine 1-0 to keep their hopes of qualifying for this summer’s UEFA Championship finals in France firmly alive.