John Filan has been told not to blame himself after suffering heartache in the Carling Cup final.

Lord Stevens will today deliver the preliminary findings of his inquiry into allegations of corruption in English football.

Tottenham boss Martin Jol has backed Graham Poll following the referee’s controversial performance at White Hart Lane last week.

Video replays could soon be used to identify and punish players guilty of diving if the English Football Association succeed in convincing FIFA it is in the best interests of the game.

The Football Association will study video footage of last night’s match between Sheffield United and Aston Villa at Bramall Lane after striker Juan Pablo Angel appeared to elbow Blades captain Chris Morgan.

Nineteen-year-old Luke Fitzgerald could be in line for his competitive debut as Leinster coach Michael Cheika has left a vacancy at left wing for Leinster's assignment at Edinburgh in Murrayfield on Friday.

Jose Mourinho paid tribute to his entire squad and coaching staff as Chelsea celebrated their first title success in 50 years at Stamford Bridge today.

Cardiff Blues 12 Edinburgh 17

Never-say-die Monaghan lifted their first NFL title since 1985 when Meath substitute Mark Ward fisted an unlikely own goal to his own net in injury-time - sending the Royals into despair.

Michael Jackson may face new charges if his claims that he was manhandled by police prove to be false, officers said tonight.

Celtic 5 Livingston 1

Gwent Dragons 34 Edinburgh 22

Scotland started their opening match of the World Cup in impressive fashion but a Japanese side full of vigour kept Ian McGeechan’s side honest in the first half it and could have been much closer than 15-6 at the break.

The US Army reservist who tipped off investigators to abuse of Iraqi prisoners by his fellow soldiers is in protective military custody because of death threats, family members said.

Celtic’s thrilling season ended in more tears today having been pipped to the championship by Rangers on goal difference despite a courageous final day display.

Llanelli 35 Gwent Dragons 11

Leeds’ stars today banded together in support of under-fire head coach Brian Kidd.

Robbie Fowler has missed a penalty to give him his first hat-trick as a Leeds player.

Pop princess Britney Spears brought a touch of glamour to London today after jetting in to the UK for a two-day visit.

A referee who gave a team losing 18-1 a helping hand by scoring a goal for them resigned today after being suspended by the Football Association.