Despite another superb display from Jonty Evans, Ireland’s hopes of eventing glory were dashed yesterday on a cross-country that lived up to predictions as being a true test of horse and rider.

Dressage rider Judy Reynolds is breaking new ground this weekend as the first Irish rider to line out in a World Cup final and her aim is to replicate the performances that have seen her greatly improve Ireland’s reputation in the sport.

One of the country’s most recognisable GAA supporters has called on Association bosses to do more to ease the financial burden on fans.

DIE-HARD Cork fans issued a rousing rallying call to the Rebel army yesterday as they prepare to march on Croke Park.

Birmingham manager Alex Mcleish has held talks with Medhi Nafti over his future - and confirmed the midfielder will return to the side for Saturday’s Barclays Premier League clash with Everton.

Ray Lewington believes new Fulham manager Roy Hodgson will be “encouraged” by the performance in a battling 1-1 draw at Birmingham.

Birmingham skipper Damien Johnson has suffered more injury misery and will be out of action for up to a month following another hamstring setback.

Brian Belo tonight won the eighth series of Big Brother after coming top in the public vote.

Youth worker Carole Vincent and museum visitor assistant Jonty Stern became the first two housemates to be evicted in tonight’s Big Brother finale.

Voting has opened to decide who will win the eighth series of Big Brother.

Three housemates woke up to an uncertain future today after learning they faced the public vote to avoid eviction from the Big Brother house.

Big Brother housemates face the bleak prospect of basic rations for another week after a spot of biscuit bother yesterday.

A brouhaha over biscuits threatened to boil over in the Big Brother house today.

The Big Brother housemates have put forward Brian to face the public vote on Friday after concluding that Tracey was more worthy of soul guru status.

The departure of former halfway-housemate Amy seems to have had next to no impact on the Big Brother house.

Big Brother twins Sam and Amanda are hoping to avoid being booted out of the show tonight in an eviction showdown with halfway housemates Amy, Jonty and Kara-Louise.

Amy, Jonty and Kara-Louise have joined Amanda and Sam to face eviction from the Big Brother house on Friday.

Birmingham skipper Damien Johnson will miss the start of the Barclays Premier League campaign after a scan revealed a grade one tear of his hamstring.

The Big Brother house is set for more upheaval and tears today as the housemates prepare for another eviction.

There was further upheaval in the Big Brother house last night as the four members of the halfway house had to choose four housemates from the official house to replace them.