Sport

Local Angharad James-Turner leads Cymru in historic Euro ’25 play-off final

Published

1 week ago

November 29, 2024

TONIGHT (Nov 29), Pembrokeshire’s own Angharad James-Turner will captain the Cymru Women’s national football team in the first leg of their crucial Euro 2025 play-off final against the Republic of Ireland in Cardiff. As the youngest player ever to accumulate 100 caps for Cymru, Angharad’s leadership and experience will be invaluable as Cymru battles for a spot in next summer’s European Championship.

A star in the making

Angharad James’ footballing career began in the heart of Pembrokeshire, where she first showcased her talent with local club Manorbier Ladies, not far from her hometown of Haverfordwest. Her ability on the pitch quickly caught the attention of larger clubs, and at 16, she joined the Arsenal Academy. By 2011, she had made her debut for Arsenal in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, marking the start of an illustrious career.

From there, James has played for an impressive array of clubs across the globe, including Notts County, Yeovil Town, Everton, Reading, North Carolina Courage, Orlando Pride, and Tottenham Hotspur. Her versatility as a midfielder, as well as her time playing as a fullback at Spurs, has earned her a reputation as an exceptional player who can control the game and set up her teammates with key assists

Now 30, James has become the heartbeat of the Welsh national team. She was named Cymru captain in October 2024, taking over the leadership role from Sophie Ingle. Despite the big shoes to fill, Angharad has proven herself to be more than capable, leading her team through tough qualifiers, including the pivotal play-offs for Euro 2025

A champion on and off the pitch

Angharad’s international career is nothing short of remarkable. She made her senior debut for Wales at just 17 and reached 100 caps in 2022, the same day Wales qualified for the World Cup play-offs for the first time. Her contribution to Welsh football has been pivotal, and she was named to represent Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics

Off the pitch, Angharad is equally impressive. She’s a proud Welsh speaker and regularly conducts interviews in Welsh, despite the challenges of living abroad for much of her career. In a recent social media post, she spoke about her ongoing commitment to the language, sharing her belief that it’s important to keep Welsh alive and accessible

In addition to her football career, Angharad is also a proud co-owner of a coffee van, “Two Sides Grind,” which she runs with her partner Amy James-Turner and their dog, Betsy. The duo is working towards one day owning a coffee shop, demonstrating Angharad’s entrepreneurial spirit

A historic moment for Pembrokeshire

For those in Pembrokeshire, Angharad’s journey is a point of immense pride. From her early days in Manorbier to becoming the captain of Wales, she is an inspiration to young athletes across the county. Her determination, humility, and skill make her a true role model, not only in Wales but around the world.

As Cymru takes on the Republic of Ireland in tonight’s crucial first leg, Angharad James-Turner’s leadership will be central to their hopes of qualifying for Euro 2025. Whatever the outcome, Pembrokeshire can be proud of one of their own leading the charge for Welsh football at the highest level.

Wales v Ireland – how to follow all the action

Wales v Republic of Ireland (first leg)

29th of November, Cardiff City Stadium. K.O. 19:15pm

Match Of The Day Wales – BBC One Wales and BBC iPlayer
Radio Wales Sport and Chwaraeon Radio Cymru and BBC Sounds
Follow all updates on the BBC Sport website and app.

Republic of Ireland v Wales (second leg)

3rd of December, Aviva Stadium. K.O. 19:30pm

Match Of The Day Wales – BBC One Wales, BBC Three and BBC iPlayer
Radio Wales Sport and Chwaraeon Radio Cymru and BBC Sounds
Follow all updates on the BBC Sport website and app.

Sport

Stunning start to the EPCR Challenge Cup 2024/25 season

Published

1 hour ago

December 9, 2024

Herald Sport

THE OPENING weekend of the 2024/25 EPCR Challenge Cup delivered thrilling rugby action, with standout performances and record-breaking moments across the competition. Fans were treated to a feast of tries, dramatic plays, and individual brilliance as Europe’s elite club teams clashed in the first round.

Top performers steal the show

Several players etched their names into the headlines with eye-catching performances:

Luke Matkava of Black Lion was a master off the tee, notching up an impressive 17 points, making him the weekend’s top scorer.
Lucas Martin of Aviron Bayonnais led the charge with 22 carries, showcasing his relentless drive on the field.
Nadir Megdoud, also from Aviron Bayonnais, dazzled defenders, beating 21 players—more than anyone else in Round 1.
Jac Price of the Scarlets proved to be a defensive powerhouse, making a tournament-high 26 tackles.

Key stats and records

The opening round saw 49 tries scored and an impressive 384 points racked up across all matches. Among the key highlights:

Connacht’s Chay Mullins delivered the only hattrick of the round, marking a dream debut.
Antoine Aucagne of USAP scored the quickest try of the weekend, touching down just two minutes into their clash with the Toyota Cheetahs.
Gloucester Rugby’s Seb Blake claimed the season’s first try in their match against Edinburgh Rugby, crossing the line at the 10-minute mark.

A weekend to remember

Jeandre Rudolph of Toyota Cheetahs showed versatility, making seven dominant carries, securing four turnovers, and scoring a try in a commanding display. Meanwhile, Scarlets’ duo Jac Price and Alex Craig led defensive efforts, with Price topping the tackles chart and Craig closely behind with 24.

The weekend opened with a nail-biting encounter between Dragons RFC and Montpellier Hérault Rugby, where Aurelian Barreau scored the tournament’s first points via an early penalty.

A promising start

The EPCR Challenge Cup continues to unite teams from the Gallagher Premiership, TOP14, and United Rugby Championship, offering a stage for unforgettable rugby moments. The Principality Stadium in Cardiff is set to host the finals weekend in May, promising an electric atmosphere for fans.

With such an explosive start, rugby enthusiasts can look forward to more drama and excitement as the tournament progresses. For detailed results, updated pools, and more, visit the EPCR Challenge Cup website.

Sport

Ospreys v Emirates Lions match relocated to Parc y Scarlets due to storm

Published

2 days ago

December 7, 2024

Herald Sport

THE HIGHLY anticipated Ospreys v Emirates Lions match in the EPCR Challenge Cup has been moved to Parc y Scarlets after Storm Darragh caused structural damage to the Swansea.com Stadium. The fixture, originally scheduled at the Swansea venue, will still take place on Sunday, December 8, with a 3:15pm kick-off.

Following extensive consultations with EPCR, alternative venues such as St Helen’s and the Dunraven Brewery Field were considered. However, Parc y Scarlets was chosen as the best option, ensuring both player safety and supporter welfare.

In a joint statement, Ospreys and EPCR expressed gratitude to the Scarlets for their swift cooperation in accommodating the match at short notice. “We are incredibly thankful for the Scarlets’ support during this unexpected situation,” the statement read.

The change of venue does not alter the match schedule, and arrangements for ticket and hospitality transfers are being finalised. Supporters are advised to await further updates regarding these details. The match will be broadcast on Premier Sports, SuperSport, and FloRugby.

An EPCR spokesperson added: “We appreciate the understanding of fans during this unforeseen change. We look forward to an exciting game at Parc y Scarlets.”

Sport

All football in Wales postponed as Storm Darragh threatens severe disruption

Published

3 days ago

December 6, 2024

Herald Sport

THE FAW has announced the postponement of all football matches scheduled for Saturday, December 7, as Storm Darragh is set to bring life-threatening conditions to the country.

The decision follows a rare red weather warning issued by the Met Office, forecasting winds of up to 90mph and heavy rainfall across Wales and parts of southwestern England. This is the first red alert since Storm Isha in January, with forecasters warning of extensive disruption, including potential damage to buildings, power outages, and severe flooding.

An FAW spokesperson said:
“The Met Office has issued red, amber, and yellow weather warnings for the vast majority of Wales due to Storm Darragh, which is expected to bring damaging winds and heavy rain, causing significant disruption and danger to life.

“It is not safe to drive in such weather, including travelling to and from football matches. Being outside in high winds increases the risk of injury, and the Met Office advises people to stay indoors if possible.

“Clubs have been advised to check for and secure any loose items around their grounds if it can be done safely. This includes bins, furniture, goalposts, and fences.”

Precautions and ongoing assessments

The FAW confirmed that matches scheduled for Friday, December 6, and Sunday, December 8, will be reviewed individually, depending on league policies and updated weather conditions.

The Met Office has also issued a yellow warning for rain in Wales from 3:00pm today until midday tomorrow, alongside two amber warnings for wind on Saturday. Rhondda Cynon Taf, where severe flooding affected between 200 and 300 properties during Storm Bert last month, is among the areas bracing for renewed challenges.

Residents are urged to prepare for potential disruptions and stay informed of weather updates. Storm Darragh’s impact is expected to be one of the most severe weather events in recent months, underscoring the importance of adhering to safety advisories.