Birmingham manager Steve Bruce has launched an attack on former referee Jeff Winter after the retired official branded Robbie Savage a “coward” after a bust-up with Aston Villa skipper Olof Mellberg.

Dolphin 27 Lansdowne 15

Borders 22 Cardiff 20

The FA have launched an investigation into the incidents at Old Trafford, and officials will be studying video evidence before bringing any charges against either clubs or players.

Joe Cole and Rufus Brevett will not face criminal charges following the incidents after West Ham’s Premiership game with Bolton at the Reebok Stadium on April 19.

Peter Schmeichel has announced he is to retire at the end of this season.

Everton want to delay Manchester United’s celebrations should Sir Alex Ferguson’s side clinch the Barclaycard Premiership title at Goodison next weekend.

A report into the police investigation which failed to spot serial killer Harold Shipman’s murderous ways was due to be published today.

Tough-tackling Ireland remain on course for a Grand Slam showdown with England after grinding out a 15-12 win over reigning champions France in a tense match at Lansdowne Road.

Two goals from Henrik Larsson and John Hartson have put Celtic firmly in command against Livingston.

Newcastle staged another magnificent comeback to cement their top-four finish with a thrilling victory over West Ham.

Henrik Larsson’s last-minute goal allowed 10-man Celtic to snatch all three points at Parkhead.

About 200 loyalists gathered on the disputed Ardoyne Road to hold a short service in memory of 16-year-old Thomas McDonald, who died in an incident in another flashpoint area of the city on Tuesday.

The Taoiseach is to receive up to 40,000 postcards through the post in protest at the shortfall in local authority housing.