Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy progress but shock for French foes

SEMIS BOUND: Fintan McCarthy and Paul O'Donovan of Ireland. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy row in the semi-final of the men’s lightweight double sculls at the World Rowing Championships in Belgrade after cruising to victory in their quarter-final race yesterday.

The Skibbereen duo led from the off and qualified ahead of Italy's Stefano Oppo and Gabriel Soares. Their time was fastest across the four quarter-final races.