Uneven rest periods have once again become a World Cup bugbear, with Japan suffering 45-10 defeat to Scotland just four days after stunning South Africa and the world with a 34-32 victory in Brighton.

Mike Ruddock is to step down from his role as Ireland Under 20 head coach, the IRFU has said in a statement.

World Cup organisers are expected to say today that England will be one of the eight top seeds for next summer’s finals in Germany.

AS the eldest of eight children, Marc Lievremont’s robust style in coaching the French rugby squad should perhaps surprise nobody.

Ireland vice-captain Kyle McCallan has urged his team to put aside their poor start to the Friends Provident Trophy and retain the Intercontinental Cup for former coach Adrian Birrell.

Aston Villa striker Milan Baros has been ruled out of Monday’s Premiership clash with Manchester City at Eastlands.

Flanker Tom Croft has labelled speculation over Martin Johnson’s future as England manager “disgusting”.

Two own goals from captain Kakha Kaladze gifted Italy victory over a toothless Georgia in Tbilisi tonight to keep the visitors out in front at the top of the World Cup qualifying Group Eight table.

Portugal manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has indicated his willingness to work with Kia Joorabchian, the man linked to a takeover of West Ham, at some stage in the future.

Pre-tournament favourite Paul Casey was today battling to get into contention in the third round of the Volvo China Open.

The start of the NEC World Golf Championship in Akron – penultimate qualifying event for Europe’s Ryder Cup team – was delayed by over three hours today.

Spain have given their manager a ringing endorsement ahead of meeting Ireland at this summer’s Euro 2012.

BRAZIL’S World Cup star Ronaldo has hired a private jet to fly his Real Madrid team-mates to a French chateau for his Valentine’s Day wedding to Brazilian model, Daniela Cicarelli.

THE sight of a proud Namibian rugby player with tears in his eyes as he faced his national flag and sang his national anthem before representing his country at the World Cup was a lot more inspiring than the sight of the Irish team facing a cartoon flag while singing along to a karaoke tune.

FRANCE centre Yannick Jauzion has slammed “arrogant” England following Les Bleus’ 24-21 victory at the Stade de France on Saturday.

Ireland's bid was seen as the worst of the three countries, handing them a major blow in their hopes of hosting the event for the first time.

President Michael D Higgins will represent Ireland at the State memorial service for Nelson Mandela.

FIFA is in crisis and most football fans are utterly delighted to hear it.