Having led the Irish challenge at the Qualifying School Final Stage at PGA Catalunya Resort outside Girona, Simon Thornton is in a real battle to make the cut heading into today’s fourth round.

It’s been a rocky road, but for Martin O’Neill’s Republic of Ireland it’s about the destination, not the journey.

Unbeaten records, recent meetings: forget about them.

The kick-out from Darren Randolph parted the German sea for Shane Long’s miracle — and now comes the exodus.

THERE was much gnashing of teeth and angry outbursts from the public when Jeremy Clarkson, James May, and Richard Hammond had their involvement in Top Gear brought to a sudden and premature end over that “fracas”.

IT might be difficult to surpass Thursday night’s heroics when our soccer team beat world champions Germany in Dublin, but tomorrow every Irish sports fan will be spoilt for choice — and have an opportunity to undergo a self- administered heart health check.

Here’s a briefing on some of the stories and issues highlighted on irishexaminer.com today.

Everyone knows about the famous New Zealand war dance, the Haka, but what about the Tongan Sipi Tau?

Good morning. Here’s everything you need to know before you start your day.

ENGLISH FA chairman Greg Dyke has said for the first time that the governing body will drop its backing for Michel Platini if FIFA’s ethics committee finds he behaved improperly.

Apart from the two Irish groups, what else was decided last night?

Northern Ireland head coach Michael O’Neill paid tribute to the team for buying into his philosophy after they sealed their place at next summer’s European Championship last night.

A question for the world champions: Can we play you every week?