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.

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

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.

David Jones’ promotion-chasing Wolves had to settle for a share of the spoils in another big derby game against rivals West Brom last night, but it was enough to take them back to the top of the Division One table.

Celtic striker Henrik Larsson admits that he was disappointed that the side could not kill off Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup.

Rangers’ season was left in tatters by David Hannah’s second-half winner that propelled Dundee United into the Scottish Cup semi-finals.

Manchester United 4 Norwich 0

Liverpool 2 Newcastle 1

Latest: It is understood the Independent Alliance wants an external audit of the Gardaí in the wake of the whistleblower controversy.

Rory McIlroy revealed last night he had received a message from US Open champion Graeme McDowell after establishing a four-shot lead at The Masters – saying he loved him.

Rory McIlroy and Colin Montgomerie will remember the US Open at Congressional as long as they live – but for reasons that could not be more contrasting.

Virgin Atlantic blew the whistle on an alleged price-fixing cartel with British Airways because it wanted to win the race for immunity and save itself millions of pounds, a British court heard today.