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Union St Gilloise run riot against hapless Hapoel Beer Sheva

Union St Gilloise didn’t hold back in the second half of their Europa League clash with Hapoel Beer Sheva. The Belgian side, playing their ‘home’ game across the border in Germany, scored three goals in the second half to record a 4-0 victory. Union St Gilloise made the Merkur Spiel-Arena in Dusseldorf their home for the clash with the Israeli club and took a while to get going. Raul Florucz scored just before half-time from the spot, with Union St Gilloise suffering another injury blow as Florucz had replaced Mateo Biondic early on in the game.

Darius Olaru had then also had to go off injured, being replaced by Dylan Aquino. Like Florucz, Aquino had an impact on the game, scoring his first goal for Union St Gilloise since joining over the summer from Lanus. This had made it 3-0 to Union St Gilloise, with Brazilian winger Guiherme Smith having scored just after the hour mark to make it 2-0. Smith got his second in the 80th minute as Union St Gilloise recorded a comfortable 4-0 victory.

The result means that Union St Gilloise are now unbeaten in the Europa League, having beaten Viktoria Plzen in their opening game and drawing 1-1 with La Liga side Real Sociedad last week. Next up for the Belgian side is a another Spanish side Celta Vigo, who also won yesterday away to Celtic.

GBeNeFN | Ben Jackson

With 1:56 remaining in the fourth quarter on Thursday night, the Bears faced third-and-inches, and Patriots defensive lineman Cory Durden jumped offside. The fans in Chicago cheered, thinking New England had just made a big mistake. Actually, Patriots coach Mike Vrabel had just called a smart play.

Vrabel told Durden to jump offside intentionally because he figured the Patriots were unlikely to stop the Bears from picking up a first down when they only had inches to go anyway, and he'd rather concede the first down without running any time off the clock and then use his timeouts on the next set of downs.

It proved to be smart: The Patriots' defense stopped the Bears on the next three plays, the Patriots used their three timeouts, and the Bears kicked with 1:39 remaining. Unfortunately for the Patriots, Bears kicker Cairo Santos kicked a career-long 58-yard field goal that put the game effectively out of reach. But if Santos had missed, the Patriots would have had a real chance at a game-winning touchdown, and they would have had an additional 40 seconds to do it because of Vrabel's smart clock management.

Vrabel confirmed after the game what he had done, not wanting Durden to get blamed for the penalty.

"For the record, we told Cory to jump offsides on third-and-six inches," Vrabel said. "We felt like that was going to be the best way to get them stopped, and that's on me, so our guys executed. And Cairo made a huge kick."

Kirk Herbstreit, the commentator on the Prime Video broadcast of the game, correctly noted that, for the Patriots, it was better to give the Bears first-and-10 than third-and-inches in that situation.

"The fact that it's third-and-inches instead of first-and-10, actually with the clock, hurts New England," Herbstreit said after Bears quarterback Caleb Williams had been spotted just short of the first down on the previous play.

When Durden jumped offside, some thought it was a bonehead penalty, but Herbstreit knew what was happening.

"This guy did this on purpose," Herbstreit said. "Going back to the clock, we just said, if they get the first down you have to waste a timeout on the third-down conversion. Now they get the first down. Vrabel, the way he operates, that's something they would do."

Vrabel has made similar calls before. In fact, during the 2020 offseason, the NFL changed its rules to stop the clock after offensive penalties late in the fourth quarter because of the way Vrabel, then the coach of the Titans, had run the clock by intentionally committing penalties in a playoff win over the Patriots.

On Thursday night, Bears coach Ben Johnson should have declined the Patriots' offside penalty to keep it third-and-inches. But Johnson apparently hadn't thought through the consequences of accepting the penalty and the first down that came with it.

In the end, the Bears won despite Vrabel's tactic. But it was another example of how Vrabel is among the best coaches in the league at managing the clock late in the game.

The Cavaliers stun the NBA world by blowing a 29-point lead in a historic loss to LeBron James and the 76ers.

The Cleveland Cavaliers blew a 29-point lead in their season opener Thursday night, falling 114-106 to LeBron James and the Philadelphia 76ers at Xfinity Mobile Arena.

The loss ended several decades-long statistical streaks and gave James the biggest comeback victory of his career. The stunning result also sparked a wave of reactions across the NBA community.

Cavaliers’ Historic 29-Point Collapse to LeBron James, 76ers Fuels NBA Reactions

Cleveland led 69-45 at halftime after Donovan Mitchell scored 22 first-half points.

Philadelphia struggled early, missing 11 of 15 attempts from beyond the arc and committing 14 turnovers before the break.

Few watching that first half could have expected Cleveland to lose.

Cavaliers Nation reacted to the final result: “What just happened?”

Another fan wrote: “Cavs scored 37 points in the second half… Just embarrassing man.”

Content creator Ahmed/Big Biz posted: “Cavs choked a 30-point lead but analytically they won.”

NBA insider Marc Stein reacted with exasperation after the final buzzer: “Oh, Cleveland…”

YouTuber “Six Rings of Steel” compared the loss to Cleveland’s previous postseason exit: “Literally how their season ended last year is how it’s starting this year.”

The Ringer’s Raheem Palmer suggested another early playoff exit, saying the Cavaliers were “giving us a prelude to their eventual first-round exit meltdown.”

NBA teams had won 466 consecutive regular-season games when leading by at least 29 points before Cleveland’s collapse, according to The Associated Press’ Tim Reynolds.

Philadelphia scored 37 points in the third quarter, cutting Cleveland’s lead to 90-82 entering the fourth. Tyrese Maxey then led a 15-0 run that put the 76ers ahead. The Philadelphia guard also went nose-to-nose with former teammate James Harden late in the game before the two were separated.

Maxey finished with 32 points, while Joel Embiid added 24, including seven consecutive points in the final period. Jaylen Brown contributed 21 as Philadelphia improved to 2-0 following Tuesday’s victory over the New York Knicks.

James, who won one of his four NBA championships with Cleveland, recorded 17 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals against his former team.

SEE ALSO:‘Kenny (Atkinson) Might Retire,’ ‘Man, Forget Him’ – NBA Fans Mock Cavaliers Coach for Feeling ‘Depressed’ Over Missing Out on LeBron James

Mitchell led Cleveland with 32 points and 10 rebounds. The Cavaliers committed 21 turnovers and shot just 7-for-29 from 3-point distance.

Interestingly, Cleveland also squandered a 22-point fourth-quarter lead against the Knicks in last season’s Eastern Conference Finals. The Cavaliers led 83-69 entering the fourth and 93-71 with 7:52 remaining before losing 115-104 in overtime.

The Cavs will try to rebound Saturday when they host the Brooklyn Nets in their home opener at Rocket Arena. Cleveland and Philadelphia are scheduled to meet again Nov. 6.

This article originally appeared on Pro Football Network.

Newspapers praise Woltemade after matching Baggio record in Juventus 2-2 Rennes

Nick Woltemade has earned praise from the media in Italy for his performance in Juventus’s 2-2 draw against Rennes in the Europa League on Thursday evening, a night that saw the German match a record that has only previously been achieved by Roberto Baggio and Darko Kovacevic.

What Newspapers wrote about Woltemade after starring performance in Juventus 2-2 Rennes

It wasn’t the most convincing performance on a collective level as Juventus had to fight back to earn a point at home against Renned at the Allianz Stadium, but there has been praise for Woltemade from the likes of La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Corriere dello Sport and Tuttosport after providing the assist for the Bianconeri opener and then levelling from the penalty spot in the second half.

TURIN, ITALY – OCTOBER 22: Nick Woltemade of Juventus scores his team’s second goal from the penalty spot during the UEFA Europa League 2026/27 League Phase MD3 match between Juventus and Stade Rennais FC at Juventus Stadium on October 22, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Woltemade has now scored in all of his first three European matches for Juventus, a feat that has only previously been achieved by Baggio in 1990 and Kovacevic in 1999.

La Gazzetta dello Sport wrote that this was a game that ‘showed off’ Woltemade’s best qualities, noting that he was at ‘total ease’ in the final third given the opportunity to play in his preferred position behind an out-and-out centre-forward (Randal Kolo Muani).

The front page of Friday’s Corriere dello Sport claimed that Woltemade had finally ‘stepped up’ for Juventus, while Tuttosport suggested that the Newcastle loanee was the ‘only one who showed the right spirit’ of the Juventus players on the pitch.

TURIN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 06: Nick Woltemade of Juventus applauds the fans after the Serie A match between Juventus and AC Milan at Allianz Stadium on September 06, 2026 in Turin, Italy. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

Woltemade has three goals and one assist on his record since joining Juventus on loan from Newcastle during the summer transfer window. Those have all come in the Europa League. He is still waiting for his first start and first goal contribution in Serie A after five consecutive appearances off the bench.

Liverpool vs Brighton: Ngumoha Deserves His Chance to Shine at AnfieldLiverpool vs Brighton – Premier League Preview

Date: Sunday, 25th October 2026

Venue: Anfield

Kick-off: 14:00 GMT

After seven games of the new Premier League campaign, Liverpool host Brighton at Anfield looking to build consistency under Andoni Iraola. The Reds have shown encouraging signs in recent weeks, but defensive lapses and inconsistent league performances mean there is still plenty of work to do if they are to challenge near the top of the table.

Liverpool come into this fixture following a dramatic 4–3 Champions League victory over Villarreal. It was an extraordinary evening at Anfield, with the Reds recovering from two goals down to claim all three points. However, the performance also exposed familiar defensive problems, with early mistakes putting the team under unnecessary pressure.

The biggest positive was the contribution of Rio Ngumoha. The teenage winger was sensational against Villarreal, providing two assists and repeatedly troubling the visitors with his direct running and willingness to take defenders on. He brought energy and invention to an attack that desperately needed inspiration, and he has done more than enough to justify a starting place against Brighton.

Brighton will present a different challenge. They are capable of keeping possession, moving the ball intelligently and exploiting spaces when opponents press too aggressively. Liverpool will need to be organised without the ball while showing the same attacking ambition that ultimately carried them past Villarreal.

Predicted Liverpool XI

Formation: 4-2-3-1

• GK – Alisson Becker
• RB – Ronald Araújo
• CB – Jérémy Jacquet
• CB – Virgil van Dijk (c)
• LB – Milos Kerkez
• CM – Alexis Mac Allister
• CM – Trey Nyoni
• AM – Florian Wirtz
• RW – Rio Ngumoha
• LW – Bradley Barcola
• CF – Alexander Isak

Liverpool Need to Carry Their Attacking Momentum into the League

The biggest positive from the win in midweek was the emergence of Ngumoha as a genuine attacking difference-maker. His performance against Villarreal was not simply an impressive cameo from a young player. He took responsibility, attacked defenders relentlessly and produced decisive contributions when Liverpool needed them most.

He deserves to start against Brighton. His ability to beat his man and drive into dangerous areas gives Liverpool a direct threat that can unsettle organised defences. With Florian Wirtz operating centrally and Barcola offering pace from the opposite flank, Ngumoha could form part of an exciting attacking unit capable of stretching Brighton across the pitch.

Wirtz should be important between the lines, linking midfield with the forward players and creating opportunities for Isak. The Swedish striker will need better service and greater involvement than he managed during spells against Brentford, but his movement and finishing remain valuable assets.

Mac Allister will also be crucial. His performance against Villarreal improved significantly as the game progressed, and his ability to dictate play while contributing in the final third makes him central to Liverpool’s plans. Alongside Nyoni, he will need to provide balance, protect the defence and ensure the team does not become stretched when the full-backs advance.

The Key Battle: Intensity and Defensive Discipline

Liverpool cannot afford another slow start. The opening stages against Villarreal were deeply concerning, with individual errors and poor defensive organisation allowing the visitors to establish a two-goal lead. Brighton have the technical quality to punish similar mistakes, particularly if Liverpool lose possession in dangerous areas.

Jacquet has been one of Liverpool’s more reliable performers, while Van Dijk’s leadership will be vital in keeping the back line organised. Araújo and Kerkez must also choose their moments to attack carefully, ensuring that Brighton cannot exploit the spaces left behind them.

The midfield battle could determine the outcome. Brighton will look to move the ball through the central areas and draw Liverpool out of position. Mac Allister and Nyoni must remain disciplined, while Wirtz will need to contribute to the press when possession is lost.

Liverpool’s attacking quality should create opportunities, but they must combine it with a more controlled defensive performance. The aim should be to impose their intensity without allowing the match to become chaotic.

The Final Word

This is an important fixture for Liverpool. The victory over Villarreal demonstrated the team’s resilience and attacking potential, but the Premier League is unforgiving when defensive mistakes become a regular feature.

Ngumoha deserves his opportunity from the start after producing a performance that could prove significant for his development. His directness, confidence and creativity offer Liverpool something different, and Brighton will have to be alert to the threat he poses.

I expect an entertaining contest, with Brighton capable of causing problems through their possession game. However, if Liverpool start well, control the midfield and provide their forwards with consistent service, they have enough quality to secure another important victory at Anfield.

Steven Smith’s Score Prediction:

Liverpool 2–1 Brighton

Two Chelsea stars set to return from injury for Tottenham Hotspur clashChelsea Injury News Ahead of Tottenham, Fresh Concern Over Emi Martinez and Reece James

Chelsea go into the Tottenham game with a familiar problem, too many absentees and too little certainty. Xabi Alonso has had an uneven start at Stamford Bridge and this is not helping. A few of the missing players should be back quickly. A few will not. One or two remain somewhere in between, which is usually where the trouble starts.

The headline issue is Emi Martinez. Chelsea’s first-choice goalkeeper suffered the most serious injury of the lot in the 2-0 win over Everton. He was caught heavily by Jarrad Branthwaite, left the pitch on a stretcher and later underwent surgery after breaking his jaw. That is not a minor setback and no amount of optimism changes it.

Alonso said after the match, “What we know is he left the stadium conscious and right now he is in the hospital doing precautionary tests. It was concussion but more than that I saw only one clip. Hopefully it won’t be too bad but we need to wait.” Martinez later gave his own update, saying: “Thanks to everyone for the messages. The operation went well.

Photo IMAGO

“The most important thing is that we won, and kept a clean sheet. In a few weeks we’ll be back.”

That points to a return in November, which means Chelsea will have to manage without him for the immediate run of fixtures. Mike Penders stepped in against Everton and may now be asked to do more than originally planned.

Reece James and Emi Martinez setbacks hurt Chelsea

If Martinez is the latest major blow, Reece James remains the familiar one. Chelsea’s captain was already missing with a hamstring issue, then suffered a knee injury in training just as a comeback had been pencilled in. He has since had an operation and the current expectation is that he will be out until January.

That is a problem on multiple levels. James gives Chelsea authority, quality in possession and leadership. He also gives them a recurring fitness concern, which has become impossible to ignore. Chelsea can cope without him for a game or two. Over a longer stretch, the drop-off becomes more obvious.

Malo Gusto should ease some of that pressure in the short term. He missed the Everton trip through illness rather than injury, which matters. Alonso expects him to be available again for Tottenham. Given that he has also been used in midfield this season, his return broadens the options immediately.

Pep Chavarria and Malo Gusto close to return

Pep Chavarria looks like another who may be back quickly. The wing-back had been set for what would have been his third consecutive league start before a problem in training forced him out of the squad. Alonso explained the situation clearly enough, saying: “[Pep had] a little problem yesterday; we are not certain of the situation yet because it was late. Jorrel is fit and has played there, so it’s just that change.”

That does not sound like a long-term issue. The working assumption is that Chavarria could return against Tottenham, which would be timely given Chelsea’s lack of depth in certain areas. Jorell Hato filled in, but Alonso will want as many natural options available as possible.

So for Chelsea injury news this week, there is at least one small mercy. Gusto and Chavarria look close. Martinez and James do not.

Jamie Gittens and Emmanuel Emegha still waiting

Further forward, Chelsea are still waiting on Jamie Gittens and Emmanuel Emegha. Gittens suffered an ankle injury while away with England Under-21s and has been out ever since. There is no mystery here, he is simply not ready. Alonso’s latest line was short and to the point: “Not yet. Still a few weeks.” November remains the likely target.

Emegha is more complicated. The summer signing has yet to get going after a hamstring problem in pre-season, and every time it seems a return is getting closer, something else appears. He is back training, but not fully, and Alonso admitted there had been another minor setback.

“He’s not yet [available].” Alonso said. “He felt something [on Thursday], a little thing.

“He’s going to be training next week but he’s still not 100 per cent fit to be playing in the game.

“When he’s fit, he is very special because he’s 195 centimetres (6ft 5ins). He’s quick, he attacks the space, he’s a threat.

“So he needs to be fully fit and at this moment he’s having little things and unfortunately he’s not been available.

“But we are looking forward to that. He feels good and he can help the team but he’s going to be difficult for the defenders when he’s in good shape.”

That is encouraging in one sense, Alonso clearly values the player. It is less encouraging in another, because Chelsea still have no real date for when he will be fully available and reliable.

Chelsea injury news and expected return dates

For now, the picture is simple enough. Emi Martinez, Reece James, Jamie Gittens and Emmanuel Emegha are out. Malo Gusto and Pep Chavarria are pushing to return. Chelsea need some of them back quickly, because Tottenham will test whatever depth Alonso still has left.

Expected return dates, Emi Martinez in November, Reece James in January, Jamie Gittens in November, Emmanuel Emegha in November, Pep Chavarria against Tottenham, Malo Gusto against Tottenham.

Samoa had lost their opening World Cup fixture 40-0 against Australia [Getty Images]

Samoa (40) 76

Tries: Clarke, Ekepati 3, Mino-Sinapati 2, Hall, Taulelei-Siala 2, Lolesio, Isa'ako, Tagoai, Crichton Ropati, Papalii Goals: Piliae-Rasabale 10

Wales (0) 0

Wales suffered a second successive heavy defeat at the Rugby League World Cup as they were overawed by Samoa's pace and power in a 76-0 defeat.

Samoa were at their unstoppable best, setting a new record win by outscoring their 52-8 victory over Russia at the 2008 World Cup.

A hat-trick from debutant Tyra Ekepati epitomised Samoa's dominant display, while Destiny Mino-Siapati and Mercedez Taulelei-Siala both scored twice against a Wales side playing only their 14th international fixture.

Mino-Siapati's second, an impressive deep run through space, was the most eye-catching try in a game dominated by the team ranked fifth in the world.

Samoa gained more than 2,000 meters and also made 21 line breaks - compared to none by Wales - as they dominated until the final whistle in Sydney.

• Ruck's family sacrifice to represent Wales

After opening defeat by England most saw this, on paper, as Wales' best chance at a maiden World Cup win prior to their final pool match against reigning champions Australia.

And it looked as though the debutants would get off to another dream start in Sydney as early errors left Samoa under pressure and camped on their try line.

But Frank Pritchard's side weathered the storm to remind Wales of the challenge ahead, with Laikha Clarke crashing over to score Samoa's first World Cup try in nearly 18 years.

Wales struggled to contain Samoa's pace, power and quick passing, and the floodgates opened in just their second game against non-European opposition.

Mino-Sinapati, Amber Hall and an Ekepati double added three more Samoa tries to lead 28-0 after 28 minutes, and Taulelei-Siala and Ivana Loleiso added two more to lead 40-0 at the break.

Half-time arrived as a welcome reprieve for Wales after conceding 40 points in the first half for a second successive World Cup outing.

But any hope that the restart would bring more defensive solidity for Wales was pierced when Samoa captain Evana Isa'ako crossed for an eighth try and Monica Tahoai a ninth.

Mino-Siapati then added a 10th try with a stunning long-distance run before Taulelei-Siala joined her on a brace three minutes later.

Freedom Crichton Ropati, cousin of Stephen Crichton and sister-in-law of Brian To'o, crossed to score her first World Cup try aged 18.

Ekepati, Samoa's talented 19-year-old centre, completed her hat-trick in the closing stages before Tavarna Papalii added a 14th try with 90 seconds to go.

Wales conclude their Pool action against co-hosts Australia in Sydney on Sunday, 1 November, while Samoa head to Wollongong to face England on Friday, 30 October.

Celtic 1-2 Celta Vigo – Some improvement, but same problems remainAfter the high of thumping Hearts on Sunday, Celtic were brought crashing back to earth with a bump last night as we fell to a third successive loss in the Europa League against Celta Vigo at Celtic Park despite going a goal up just after the restart courtesy of a fine Mika Baur finish…

Javi Rodriguez of Real Club Celta Vigo scores his team’s first goal during the UEFA Europa League 2026/27 League Phase MD3 match between Celtic FC and Celta Vigo at Celtic Park on October 22, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Two quick fire strikes from Javi Rodriguez

Despite having that lead to protect, we collapsed yet again as the La Liga side struck back with two quick fire strikes from Javi Rodriguez to win 2-1, leaving Celtic second bottom of a 36 team league without a solitary point to our name after three matches.

Last night Celtic played quite well in patches, and we saw a definite improvement on the Ferencvaros and Benfica games. However despite showing more organisation and fight than in previous European games, we looked second best to a superior Celta Vigo side on the night.

Javi Rodriguez of Celta Vigo scores his team’s second goal during the UEFA Europa League 2026/27 League Phase MD3 match between Celtic FC and Celta Vigo at Celtic Park on October 22, 2026. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Celta Vigo technically better than Celtic

If they possessed a decent finisher in the first half especially, then the Spanish side would have been well out of sight. They may be mid table in La Liga, but they are a much better side than us technically, and it showed on several occasions.

Celta carved us open with ease, more so towards the latter stages of the game, especially down the right hand side of the Celtic defence, as our lacking in experience and quality defence was targeted at every opportunity.

Three first pick defenders missing for Celtic

Granted we were missing the quality and experienced trio of Alistair Johnston, Cameron Carter Vickers and Auston Trusty in defence, but the fact we have to rely on Dane Murray and Liam Scales is further proof of the club’s neglect on the recruitment front.

We may sit in a decent position domestically, but in Europe we are an absolute shambles this season having now suffered four embarrassing defeats in a row. For a once mighty force in European football the extent of our fall from the elite level is astonishing’.

Benjamin Nygren doesn’t do enough pressing

Yes it was an improvement on previous games, and it can be said that the referee made some dubious calls, but those same old problems that haunt us on the big stage are still clearly evident. Celtic try to press but never quite manage it, Benjamin Nygren in particular never seems to grasp his responsibility in this side of the game, so we are always a man light. Why do the supporters see this but not the coaches?

Blame ultimately lies with Dermot Desmond

11th October 2026; Fir Park, Scottish Premiership, Motherwell versus Celtic; Celtic fans group Green Brigade with an anti Dermot Desmond banner. Photo by Vagelis Georgariou

“What has failed recently was not due to our structure or model, but to one individual’s desire for self-preservation at the expense of others.”

Alfred Dunhill Links Championship Dermot Desmond is driven away from the Old Course after finishing his 3rd round with a close security guard in the front seat of the golf buggy at St Andrews, 03 October 2026. Photo Stuart Wallace Shutterstock IMAGO

Those famous words from Dermot Desmond after he chased an elite manager out the door at Celtic Park for daring to dream about Celtic having any sort of European ambition, following our Champions League performance in Munich.

Listen to this rant. Every single word is bang on…Maybe the happy clappers and those paid fan media critics on social media will be taking a well deserved day or two off while avoiding looking at themselves in the their mirrors…

Just an Ordinary Bhoy

HAVE YOUR SAY – Join the Celtic conversation in our comments section below…

Celtic in the Fifties by Matt Corr, in two volumes, both published on 4th September 2026 by Celtic Star Books. Click on image to order.

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Callum Osmand and Celtic had a frustrating night in Glasgow [SNS]

When Mika Baur scored early in the second half against Celta Vigo, so much in Celtic's garden was rosy.

The team had an intensity now that they didn't have before. They had momentum. Belief. They had a Liam Scales header hopping off the top of the crossbar. The La Liga visitors were under the pump.

It was easy to conclude in those naively optimistic moments that Celta Vigo were all passing and no penetration. They passed it to death and got pretty much nowhere.

More than 350 passes in the opening half and one attempt on target. All very pretty. All very technical. All very tippy-tappy.

The question that Celtic fans will be asking now, some with pitchforks in hand, is what the hell happened in the last half-an-hour of this game. Particularly, what happened from minutes 68 to 71.

From three points to no points. From building on the hiding dished out to Hearts to another loss and getting shunted back to bitterness and rancour.

• Celtic suffer third Europa League defeat in row after Celta Vigo turnaround
• O'Neill bemoans marginal moments but are Celtic just not good enough?
• Latest Celtic news, analysis and fan views

Celtic stopped playing and stopped believing. They were hit with a bit of adversity and they were bowled over by it. Knocked to the ground, never to rise up again.

They'll complain - as they already have - about a foul on Camilo Duran that wasn't picked up just before the equaliser, but there is no talking to the errors they made thereafter.

The inability to deal with a free-kick, the failure to pick up the goalscorer in the first instance and then multiple calamities in the concession of the second goal. How many chances does one side need to get a ball away to safety?

Long before the end, Celtic were gone. Psychologically spent. This is nothing new. Something new would have been the sight of them kicking on at 1-0, but in Europe such strength is a dying art form in this team.

A third straight loss in Europe, 35th out of 36 teams in the Europa League table, only a side from Armenia keeping them off rock bottom. This is their place in the grand scheme now.

Domestic football proves lousy barometer

Chris Sutton calls them flat-track bullies. How many Celtic fans would disagree with that depiction? Not many.

Thursday was yet another example of domestic football being a lousy barometer of Celtic's capacity to win - or even draw - games in Europe.

In the wake of the 7-1 trouncing of Hearts, some Celtic folk with desperately short memories rounded on a few commentators who were critical of Martin O'Neill, his players and this Celtic board following their losses to Rangers and their failures against LASK, Ferencvaros and Benfica.

As if beating up Hearts made it all better. The message, after the goal deluge, was 'what are you saying to it now?' The answer: Exactly as we were saying before.

O'Neill said on Thursday that there are still loads of points to play for - and there are. But it was a claim made from a position of serious weakness. Desperation, almost.

Even at their best in recent decades, Celtic have struggled awfully to win European games on the road. Right now, that looks way beyond them. Winning at home is too much for them these days, too.

So, yes, there are enough points on offer for Celtic to fight their way out of their Europa League dungeon and into the play-off, but in their current state it's more a philosophical thought than an attainable reality.

If you have lost three out of three, have scored three goals and have conceded nine, then banging on about points you might win down the line is an exercise in wishful thinking.

In the here and now, Celtic's standards are plummeting. That's on everybody.

It's on O'Neill and his players, though it's easy to have some sympathy for the manager when he not only has to field questions about the stuff he's responsible for but also come up with answers about stuff that he has no responsibility for - the ongoing circus that is Celtic's relationship with large elements of their own support.

And the blame is also, in greater part, on a board who are happy to have O'Neill and - when he's not around - Shaun Maloney, talking about the disconnect between fans and club, as was the case on Wednesday.

No chief executive, no chairman, no major shareholder and no major shareholder's son are anywhere to be seen when those issues are raised at news conferences. Just a manager or an assistant who, let's face it, have a few other things on their mind.

[BBC]Do Celtic have vision to make it better?

Just after the television coverage ended on Thursday there was a programme of highlights of big Celtic Park Champions League nights. Remember them?

Celtic beating the Manchester United of Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs, Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney; Celtic beating the AC Milan of Alessandro Nesta, Andrea Pirlo, Clarence Seedorf and Kaka; Celtic beating the Barcelona of Jordi Alba, Xavi, Iniesta and Lionel Messi.

A stadium literally shaking to its very foundations. Packed solid. Deafening. Unforgettable.

Look at it now. Empty seats and people leaving early. A game against the eighth best team in Spain, in a second-tier European competition - defeat and apathy. How they have fallen.

Of course, it might seem a little tiresome looking back at how things were 20 years ago, so let's not. Let's look at how things were in February last year.

Bayern Munich versus Celtic. Ninety-three minutes gone in the second leg in Germany and it's 2-2 on aggregate.

Bayern have started with a front four of Michael Olise, Jamal Musiala, Serge Gnabry and Harry Kane. Thomas Muller has replaced Musiala, Leroy Sane has come on for Gnabry, Kingsley Coman for Kane.

It took Bayern until the fourth minute of added time to see Celtic off. From there to here is some descent into European mediocrity and irrelevance.

O'Neill said that he "can't ask anything more" from his players. He can - and he must.

More must be asked of O'Neill and more - much, much more - must be asked of the board. Bringing in new players and a new manager is easily done, if they so wish. Whether it's the right players and the right manager is a different story, but it can be done in a heartbeat.

Changing a board, and a way of thinking, is a whole lot harder. There's little doubt all of these people want success for Celtic. They might get more of it domestically. They might win another league, another cup, maybe two. That is all highly possible, if not probable.

This question has been asked so many times now - and it's grim that it still has to be asked. What do Celtic stand for? Flat-track bullydom or something more, something more adventurous, something in keeping with the 'great European story' they so often talk about.

Because of the Lisbon Lions it is and always will be the greatest of all Scottish football stories. Nothing is ever likely to surpass it.

But there are other stories, in the present day, that are tiresome for Celtic folk, stories that are playing out now, almost on a loop. From Champions League to Europa League. What's next? Conference League. And after that?

Everyone in power at the club cannot look at that 36-team table and not feel an enormous sense of embarrassment. If they don't, they're really not in the right job.

The question is - do they have any kind of vision to make it better? Many observers of the club might see that as a rhetorical question.

College Football: Notre Dame fan grilling hamburgers and tailgating before game vs Georgia outside Notre Dame Stadium. South Bend, IN 9/9/2017 CREDIT: Jeff Haynes (Photo by Jeff Haynes /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images) (Set Number: X161369 TK1 )

Just because Notre Dame is home eating tacos this week (I’m sorry you guys… I have to mix it up) it doesn’t mean college football hits the pause button.

The amount of cheeseburgers I’m throwing down the hatch this week is damn near sinful. Forgive Father I know not what I inhale. pic.twitter.com/NsONTtbQm8

— One Foot Down (@OneFootDown) October 21, 2026

We are only a week and a half away from the release of the first set of college football playoff rankings, and after the chaos we just witnessed last week, I’m prepared for further chaos.

SO… this week’s staff picks is just the entire Top 25 in action (plus a massive MAC battle in Athens between Eastern Michigan and Ohio).

Among some of those games are:

Pitt Panthers VS Miami Hurricanes
Indiana Hoosiers VS Michigan Wolverines
Texas Tech Red Raiders VS Cincinnati Bearcats
Cal Bears VS SMU Mustangs
USC Trojans VS Wisconsin Badgers
Michigan State Spartans VS UCLA Bruins
South Carolina Gamecocks VS Tennessee Volunteers
Texas Longhorns VS Ole Miss Rebels
Houston Cougars VS Utah Utes

Just as we have in the past, we will be using Tallysight to keep track of our Notre Dame and college football picks this season. I highly encourage all of you to join in on the fun in the comment section below.

Liverpool must stop €100m star joining Chelsea, Europe's most exciting attack at stake

Liverpool have a chance to secure Europe's most exciting attack. It will mean stealing a €100m player from under Chelsea's noses, though.

Liverpool have seen a change in transfer plans post-Jurgen Klopp but it's debatable whether they were right to shake things up. Things did work rather well under Klopp, after all.

But the Reds moved away from the idea of buying the 'right' player for gaps in the squad. Instead, they now like to buy the best player available, regardless of his position, and then ask a head coach to make things work with as much talent as possible.

That's how you end up with two very similar strikers, no defensive midfielders, four left-wingers and zero right-wingers. And a centre-back playing at right-back while the right-back you bought is deemed unable to play right-back.

It's very much a 'throw money at players until it works' approach, which is a solid one to guarantee yourself European football every year. It's very difficult to 'fail' with this approach, as your floor basically sits at around 6th or 7th (unless you're so bad at it that you consistently throw money at bad players i.e Manchester United).

The Nico Paz plan

This approach is why it makes sense to sign Nico Paz even though there's no real place for him in the team. But if the idea is signing the best player available, that is Paz.

The Argentine exploded into form last season and was one of the best players in Europe, albeit quietly so. Our Value Adder model has him as the fifth-most valuable player in Europe's top five leagues last season - yes, he might be slightly overvalued there but it hopefully highlights just how good he really is.

Paz wasn't just an elite attacking player, after all, but also an elite defensive one. He was the best defensive attacking midfielder in Italy by an absolute mile, in fact putting him in that group for defensive work is doing him a disservice. He's essentially one of the best defensive players in Italy but from a forward position.

The 22-year-old is simply a sensational all-around talent and it's why Real Madrid sold him back to Como in the summer with an increased buy-back clause. That now sits at €80m, per TuttoMercatoWeb, but Chelsea are apparently willing to spend €100m to get him.

Liverpool can't let that happen. Paz is the kind of player that comes along very, very rarely and also feels like a natural fit alongside Florian Wirtz in a strikerless formation.

Two Roberto Firmino's, essentially, with players who attack space and force openings with high levels of movement.

If Paz is available, there is no question at all that he'll be the best player Liverpool can sign next summer. Their plan has been to follow that path over the last couple of years.

New England Patriots TE Hunter Henry caught seven passes for 71 yards against the Chicago Bears in Week 7.

SOURCE: USA TODAY

Why It Matters: Drake Maye threw a lot to his tight ends on Thursday night. That included seven passes to Henry and four more to Eli Raridon, who finished with a 3-56-1 line. It was the continuation of a solid stretch of play from the veteran as Henry has totaled 19 receptions, 225 yards, and 2 TDs over the last four weeks. If you're inclined to carry a second tight end on your roster, Henry is a decent midrange TE2 option.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Hunter Henry leads Pats with seven receptions

Patriots most to blame for Thursday Night Football loss to Bears appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New England Patriots had every opportunity to extend their winning streak on Thursday Night Football. Instead, they left Soldier Field with a frustrating 30-24 defeat to the Chicago Bears. Drake Maye provided enough fireworks to keep New England competitive. However, Mike Vrabel’s defense repeatedly failed to deliver when it mattered most. Against Chicago, the Patriots discovered that explosive plays and missed opportunities can erase even their most spirited efforts.

Patriots fall shortDavid Butler II-Imagn Images

New England’s Week 7 showdown against Chicago featured dramatic momentum swings and several missed opportunities. Maye threw for 321 yards and two touchdowns. He also added a rushing score and connected with Rhamondre Stevenson on a spectacular 48-yard touchdown. However, Williams countered with 308 passing yards and two touchdowns. The latter repeatedly exploited New England’s coverage. Luther Burden III tormented the Patriots with 130 receiving yards. Colston Loveland added another touchdown. Cairo Santos eventually drilled a 58-yard field goal with 1:34 remaining. New England answered with a late field goal but could not recover the ensuing onside kick.

Porous secondary

The biggest culprit in New England’s defeat was its defensive backfield. The Patriots entered Thursday night knowing Williams possessed the arm talent to punish coverage mistakes. Unfortunately, their secondary made his job considerably easier.

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Burden was particularly devastating. He turned just four receptions into 130 yards and a touchdown. His most damaging contribution came on a 58-yard catch-and-run during the first quarter. A coverage breakdown involving Christian Elliss and Charles Woods allowed him to race deep into Patriots territory. D’Andre Swift promptly finished the possession with a touchdown. That established an early advantage Chicago never relinquished.

The defensive lapses continued in the second quarter. Facing third-and-17, New England had an opportunity to force a punt and prevent Chicago from extending its lead. Instead, Burden took a short completion 24 yards for another touchdown.

Loveland later compounded the damage with a 12-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter. He broke a tackle to restore Chicago’s double-digit advantage. These reflected a defensive unit struggling with communication, positioning, and finishing plays.

Inconsistent pass rush

New England’s defensive front also deserves substantial criticism. Although the Patriots generated occasional pressure, they could not consistently disrupt Williams from extending crucial possessions.

Chicago’s ground game further complicated matters. Swift provided balance with 78 rushing yards and a touchdown. That forced the Patriots to respect the run rather than concentrating exclusively on Williams.

There were positive moments, including a Marcus Jones sack and a third-quarter defensive stand. However, those flashes were overshadowed by an inability to string together stops.

Perhaps the most frustrating sequence came in the fourth quarter when Williams connected with Rome Odunze for 21 yards on third-and-nine. That extended a possession that eventually produced Santos’ decisive 58-yard field goal.

Drake Maye

Maye was certainly New England’s most important offensive player Thursday night. His performance was not flawless, though. Maye repeatedly kept his team within striking distance. Nevertheless, his second-quarter interception represented a costly missed opportunity.

With New England driving into Chicago’s red zone, Maye attempted a pass toward Eli Raridon in the end zone. The throw was intercepted, abruptly ending a promising possession and denying the Patriots valuable points. The mistake was particularly damaging because New England was already struggling to match Chicago’s offensive efficiency.

Of course, Maye deserves credit for responding with several impressive throws, including the remarkable touchdown to Stevenson before halftime. Still, franchise quarterbacks must minimize mistakes in scoring territory, especially against opponents capable of producing explosive plays.

Addressing defensive shortcomingsCredit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images

The Patriots showed resilience, but resilience alone does not win close games. Their secondary surrendered too many explosive plays. Their pass rush lacked consistency. Maye’s interception squandered a crucial scoring opportunity.

Ultimately, the defensive backfield shoulders the greatest responsibility. New England’s offense produced enough points to remain competitive. However, Vrabel must demand sharper communication, cleaner tackling, and better defensive execution before the Patriots face Miami in Week 8. Otherwise, Thursday night’s disappointment could become a recurring problem rather than an isolated setback.

Related: Patriots’ Mike Vrabel takes the high road on Will Campbell’s controversial penalty in loss to Bears

Related: Why Patriots’ Mike Vrabel wasn’t surprised by Cairo Santos calling game with career-long FG

Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images

Philadelphia 76ers fans are already getting carried away after their team fought back from a difficult first half to beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 114-106 in LeBron James’ home debut.

The Sixers trailed by 24 points at one stage before turning the game around, with Tyrese Maxey leading the way with 32 points. Joel Embiid added 24 points while Jaylen Brown finished with 21 as Philadelphia improved to 2-0.

James also played his part with 17 points, 10 rebounds and five assists, giving Sixers supporters plenty to celebrate as their new-look team continues to build momentum.

Philadelphia 76ers fans react to stunning comeback against Cleveland Cavaliers

The comeback has sparked plenty of excitement among Philadelphia fans, with some already daring to dream about what this team could achieve.

One supporter wrote: “Ring us already”

Another was encouraged by the early signs, posting: “We may have a squad.”

A third fan was even more optimistic after watching Philadelphia recover from such a difficult position, writing: “Truly unbelievable win. If we can come back from that, this team might genuinely be unstoppable…”

Maxey’s performance also earned plenty of praise, with one supporter highlighting the contributions of several key players.

They wrote: “Absolutely incredible comeback, Maxey is the man and Jaylen just brings that solid mentality. LeBron facilitating and the on-the-floor coach, with Embiid stepping up. Hope we hold up health wise, but man; THIS IS FUN!”

The result means the Sixers have started the season with two wins from two games, prompting another fan to celebrate: “2-0 GO 76ERS!!!!!”

One supporter pointed to the team’s improved defence and ability to attack the basket as the turning point in the contest.

They wrote: “Once the Sixers started defending with some d—- pride, Maxey got downhill, Brown attacked the gaps, and Embiid finished the job, turning a halftime humiliation into a comeback the Cavs couldn’t stop!”

Another fan summed up the mood in Philadelphia with a simple message: “Philly loves a comeback story”

The Sixers have made an early statement with their ability to recover from adversity, but maintaining that level of performance will be the next challenge.

With Maxey producing at a high level and Embiid, Brown and James all contributing, Philadelphia fans have plenty of reasons to be excited about what comes next.

Read more:

• LeBron James issues sarcastic one-line response to Donald Trump after he called him a ‘disgrace’
• Trump staffer Britt McHenry caught on video throwing drink at fan during Wizards game
• LeBron James’ Philadelphia connection dates back 24 years with Kobe Bryant impression

The Chicago Bears offense looks completely different with quarterback Caleb Williams on the field as evidenced in their 30-24 win over the New England Patriots.

Chicago had over 400 total yards in this game for the third time this season. This was also just the second game the Bears’ offense did not commit a turnover; the other time was in their Week 3 win against the Philadelphia Eagles. Their offense started the game a little slow with only 29 yards on their opening drive. But they were able to turn that into a field goal since their drive started at midfield following a failed fourth-down conversion by the New England Patriots.

Defensively, Chicago completely shut down the Patriots’ offense in the first quarter, forcing a turnover on downs followed by two punts. Things started to get going in the second quarter for New England’s offense as they were able to put up two touchdowns, including their 48-yard touchdown with three seconds left in the first half. That is the second time Chicago has given up a touchdown with three seconds or less left in the first half after giving up a touchdown to the Eagles with one second left.

Here are a lot of studs and one dud from Chicago’s fifth win of the season, including Caleb Williams, who has over 300 passing yards for the second straight game and kicker Cairo Santos, who redeemed himself late.

Stud: K Cairo Santos

After his doink on a 53-yard field goal, it seemed like a surprising decision for the Bears to send Cairo Santos out for a 58-yarder to make it a two-possession game with 1:34 left in the game and the Patriots out of timeouts. But the decision paid off as Santos had some room left on the field goal and gave Chicago the 30-21 lead. Before this kick, his longest field goal was 55 yards, which he made back in 2023. So, not only was this the longest field goal of his career, but also the longest field goal in the history of the Chicago Bears and the third-longest field goal in the history of Soldier Field, according to the broadcast. There are a lot of people who have doubted Santos and his leg, but he made a statement with his 58-yard field goal when the Bears needed it most.

Stud: WR Luther Burden III

Luther Burden III did not have a single target in the second half, but still finished the game with four receptions for 130 yards and a touchdown. Chicago does no win this game without the amazing first half Burden had, especially his touchdown on a third and long. Burden came into this game as Chicago’s leading receiver through the first six games and now has his first game with at least 100 yards this year. It is also the second-most receiving yards Burden has had in a game in his career. He is also Chicago’s only receiver with more than one receiving touchdown after getting his second touchdown of the year.

Stud: QB Caleb Williams

Caleb Williams finished the game completing 66.7 percent of his passes for 308 yards and two touchdowns. He became the first quarterback for the Bears since Mitch Trubisky in 2018 to have back-to-back games with at least 300 passing yards. This is also the second game in Williams’ career where he threw for at least 300 passing yards, did not have an interception and the Bears won. He has come back from his hamstring injury looking better than he did last season, which is saying a lot. There is no doubt he is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL right now.

Stud: TE Colston Loveland

Colston Loveland is officially getting hot. After scoring a touchdown last week, Loveland finished the game with the most targets (12) and most receptions (seven) of anyone in this game. He also scored a touchdown for the second week in a row. The Bears meant it when they said they were going to continue to feed him the ball and it is paying off right now despite the fact that he had two drops in this game.

Stud: LB D’Marco Jackson

D'Marco Jackson finished the game with the second-most tackles of anyone on the team, but his interception changed the game and was ultimately one of the deciding factors in Chicago’s win. With under four minutes left in the first half, New England was driving down the field and got into the red zone. Maye took a shot at the end zone and Jackson caught the interception for the only turnover of the game. If the Patriots had scored a touchdown on that drive and gotten the extra point, they would have taken the lead. Instead, they never had a lead in this game thanks to Jackson’s interception, which was only the second of his career.

Stud: RB D’Andre Swift

Early in the game, D'Andre Swift took a shot to the knee from a Patriots defender and it looked like he might be out for the rest of the game. Instead, he finished the game with 22 rushing attempts for 78 yards and a touchdown, as well as four receptions for 12 yards. The Bears needed Swift to step up in this game since Kyle Monangai was out for a third straight week. He did everything Chicago needed him to and was a key part of this victory.

Stud: CB Kyler Gordon

Kyler Gordon may not have finished this game with three sacks, but he still had one sack early in the game and had two tackles for loss and a quarterback hit. Chicago’s defense was getting pressure on Maye all game and Gordon was a large part of that. Having him back in the lineup has clearly unlocked some schemes for defensive coordinator Dennis Allen even when he is not the one blitzing. He has been a hug addition to Chicago’s defense in the past two games.

Dud: CB Jaylon Johnson

The Bears might be better off just having 10 players on defense than having Jaylon Johnson on the field. He finished this game with just two tackles. But he also had a pass interference penalty late in the game and could have made the tackle on Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson right before halftime to prevent that touchdown. There was also a scramble by New England quarterback Drake Maye where he ran right by Johnson and he never even made an attempt at a tackle. He has been terrible all season. Maybe Chicago should try and trade him before the deadline, but it is unclear what teams would even want him.

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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Studs and duds from Bears’ 30-24 win against the Patriots

Jack Campbell GettyLinebacker Jack Campbell announced signing a contract extension with the Detroit Lions on Thursday. Getty

Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta recently made headlines with his unfiltered comments about his frustration over the lack of meaningful progress on a contract extension beyond this season, the final year of his rookie deal.

And while his comments have drawn various reactions from fans and media, his Lions teammate Jack Campbell is now weighing in with his thoughts on the matter.

Jack Campbell Weighs In On Detroit Lions Teammate Sam LaPorta’s Unfiltered Comments

GettyLinebacker Jack Campbell announced signing a contract extension with the Detroit Lions on Thursday.

The Lions linebacker revealed that he spoke to LaPorta in the facility as if it were just any other day, and that his comments that he made while on the “Pardon My Take” podcast aren’t being discussed.

“No one cares,” said Campbell on Thursday via Audacy. “No one’s like, ‘Bro, how could you say that??'”

“I don’t want to overstep my boundaries,” Campbell continued. “But I know Sam’s a hell of a player, and the front office does a hell of a job, so I think it will work itself out. But it’s not, like, lingering in the locker room or anything. Everyone knows, it’s a business.”

“I try to remind myself, it’s a good problem to have, but it’s not my problem,” said Campbell. “Brad does such a good job. So now it’s up to him to figure out how they can — but nowadays I feel like you can do so much stuff (with the cap). I’m not a business guy or know much about the cap and all that, but I feel like you can figure out how to restructure things and move this and that and make it not count against the cap as much … But they do have some unique decisions to make, because I’m like, we’re gonna have to figure what to do with BB, too.”

LaPorta, Campbell, and the Lions face the divisional rival Green Bay Packers on Sunday.

Sam LaPorta Shared Unfiltered Frustration Over The Lack Of Progress On A New Deal

While making a recent appearance on the “Pardon My Take” podcast, LaPorta shared his unfiltered thoughts on not having a new contract in place.

“It’s disappointing that you go out there every week and you bear the risk of getting hurt, like last year, I break my f**king back for the team, and then I’m going out there this year and I’m ballin’ and maybe they’re just not showing the love,” he said.

“I’m going to continue to go do my thing and ball out,” LaPorta added, “and in three months if I don’t get to wear the Honolulu blue and play for the Lions anymore, it’s going to be all good. I’ll go get paid somewhere else. So, whatever.”

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post Jack Campbell Responds to Lions Teammate Sam LaPorta’s Comments appeared first on HEAVY.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's historic 20-point record comes to an end at 141 games originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Oklahoma City Thunder superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has proven that he is one of the best scorers of his generation with his immense skill set. He is a superstar talent with his scoring, as evidenced by his historic streak of consecutive games with 20 points or more.

Unfortunately, that came to an end in the Thunder's second game of the 2026-27 NBA season, which was against Nikola Jokic and the Denver Nuggets. The Nuggets played against SGA well, as they limited him from scoring, but he still managed to get 17 points before he elected to sit late in the fourth quarter.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander's 20-point streak ends at 141 games

Everyone in the NBA has become familiar with Gilgeous-Alexander and his ability to score. He can create a scoring opportunity out of nothing by making near-impossible shots at almost any angle. That helped him score 20+ points for 141 consecutive games, but that streak has finally come to an end.

It was one of the most impressive achievements of any player in the modern NBA. Now, he has a chance to reset this streak, as he would love to do it all over again. He has the skill set to do so, and he has the team around him to help him do so. 

MORE: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander gets honest about how much Russell Westbrook impacted the Thunder

Gilgeous-Alexander actually had opportunities to keep the streak going when the Thunder were winning over the Nuggets. However, it seems that he decided to end the streak at 141, something that head coach Mark Daigneault admired from his superstar.

"I was going to go out there, then I saw they had subbed, then I was just like, 'We should sub too.' Just like, I feel like you always treat the game with respect. God willing, I have many more games to start the streak," SGA said about the reason why he didn't try to chase the streak.

Now, Gilgeous-Alexander won't have to worry about the streak. However, he will do his best to keep scoring an elite rate, and if that helps him build up another streak, it will be yet another fine achievement for the reigning two-time MVP.

More NBA news:

• Jared McCain gives the Thunder another reason to be pleased with their roster
• Aday Mara's height, weight, and wingspan compared to fellow giant Victor Wembanyama
• Adam Silver appreciates the current parity in the NBA after eight seasons with eight different champions
• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander does not want Chet Holmgren to shoulder the blame from the 2026 Playoffs alone
• JJ Redick throws some shade at the Knicks, the Spurs, and the Thunder amid title hopes

Practice at the Australian Grand Prix in Phillip Island was the most eventful of the season, with a crash and an animal interruption.

Marco Bezzecchi led the timesheets with an 1'26.775 ahead of Raul Fernandez and Marc Marquez, with Bezzecchi continuing his form from a race win last time out in Indonesia.

The Aprilia rider, who is third in the championship and 46 points off teammate and leader Jorge Martin, shockingly made contact with Alex Marquez.

With just 10 minutes on the clock, Bezzecchi trailed Marquez through Turn 4 but on the exit he touched the back of the Gresini and a huge part of his fairing then launched into the air.

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Marquez was able to continue with an angry shake of his head, but Bezzecchi went off and into the gravel as the session was red-flagged to recover the sizeable piece of bodywork.

However, just eight minutes later, the red flags were back out, but not for a rider; instead, a kangaroo.

Phillip Island is famed for its penguins, which people flock to watch on the beach, but this time it was Australia’s national animal that caused everyone to head back to the pitlane.

Thankfully, the fairly big kangaroo wasn’t in a dangerous area for the riders nor itself, and it quickly performed an impressive leap over the barriers to freedom.

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The session then got back underway without any further issues, and both Marquez and Bezzecchi were able to continue despite their earlier contact.

Marquez did, however, crash his Gresini with two minutes to go, but had already recorded a decent sixth-place.

Bezzecchi, meanwhile, keeps up his leading pace from his race win in Indonesia last time out, and another strong showing this weekend would bring him right back into the title picture.

Home hero Jack Miller earlier went third in FP1, but was unable to follow it up and will have to go through Q1 after a 12th-place finish.

MotoGP Phillip Island Full Practice Results

The international roller hockey tournament is in Spain [Supplied]

A Surrey roller hockey team is to take part in a European tournament after only being founded a year ago.

Farnham Roller Hockey Club's under-17s female team will represent the town at the upcoming Eurockey International Tournament in Blanes and Lloret de Mar, Spain.

Lucy Collis, who coached the squad last year, said: "Playing together on the European stage for the first time is a major moment."

The team were only established last season by the club, along with a senior female Premier League team.

They joined the Eastern Counties female league, where they went on to win the competition in their debut year.

This success, along with a "strong" application, earned them a place at the "prestigious" Eurockey contest, according to the club.

"Seeing the development of our female teams has been inspiring and it brings hope for the future of women in this sport," added Collis.

The team's social media manager, Rebecca Dorta, told BBC Radio Surrey roller hockey was "quite a niche sport".

She said it had "sort of almost disappeared and dwindled here in the UK."

Dorta added: "To see the girls and the sport flourish like this - it's great to be part of that bigger picture."

She said the coaches were "really keen for the girls to get the experience, but ultimately to have a lot of fun.

"I think that's really key," she added.

Follow BBC Surrey on Facebook, X, and Instagram and listen to BBC Radio Surrey on Sounds. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.

More on this story

• Bar dedicated to women's sports 'a UK first'
• Finnish duo win wacky wife-carrying race
• Brighton plan Europe's first purpose-built £80m women's stadium

• Wayne Rooney says he was in “shock” and “disbelief” at Manchester United’s 4-1 Champions League defeat at Como.
• Rooney called the players “selfish” and said “they’re like babies” in the wake of comments from Lisandro Martinez and Bruno Fernandes.
• He told close friend Michael Carrick to “come out fighting” and asked the United board for clarity on the head coach’s future.

Rooney Delivers a Brutal Verdict on the United Dressing Room

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has said he was in “shock” and “disbelief” at the performance against Como and is as “worried as I’ve been for a long time” about the situation at Old Trafford.

Rooney spoke on the United Stand podcast after the 4-1 Champions League defeat on Wednesday night. The former England and United captain is a close personal friend of head coach Michael Carrick, and he said he understands the questioning of Carrick. His sharpest words were still saved for the players, who he called “selfish” and said “they’re like babies” in the wake of the controversial comments from both Martinez and Fernandes.

“When Martinez came out, I said this is an absolute nightmare because it will rip the dressing room apart,” Rooney said. “That was the start. We’ve seen it now with Bruno and you’re going to see it with more players because they don’t want to take responsibility.”

He went on: “You can say whether Bruno was right or wrong in what he said but you have to take responsibility on the pitch. You have to take responsibility as a group of players.”

Toys Out of the Pram

Rooney then widened his criticism to the whole squad. “These players, they’re selfish. They don’t care about their team-mates, don’t care about the manager, the staff or the fans, they care about themselves. If they’re not getting what’s right for them, they’re like babies and just throw their toys out of the pram and go and deflect the blame on to anyone else but themselves.”

Martinez criticised director of football Jason Wilcox and the club’s summer recruitment eight days before the Como game. Fernandes then criticised Carrick’s tactics after the defeat and said it was up to the head coach and his backroom team, not the players, to spot any issues and change them.

A Direct Message for the Captain

Fernandes’ form has dipped markedly from last season, when he was named PFA and FWA Player of the Year and broke the Premier League record for assists in a single season. Rooney felt the dip is part of the story.

“He [Fernandes] is putting pressure on someone else because he doesn’t want to face it,” Rooney added. “If he looks at himself in the mirror, if Martinez and all of them looked at themselves in the mirror, they’ll find what’s looking back at them is them, and that’s not good enough. They need to show more.”

Rooney Tells Carrick to Fight

Rooney also called on the Manchester United board to provide clarity on the future of Carrick, who he believes needs to “come out fighting”. Carrick will be in charge for Sunday’s visit of Bournemouth even with intense speculation that he is on the brink of dismissal following United’s worst run of form in a decade.

Rooney drew on his own spells as a manager at Plymouth and Birmingham City. “I was in that situation and I can only say now, looking back and reflecting, if I was in Michael Carrick’s position now, I’d come out fighting,” he said.

“There’s no more Mr Nice Guy. There are certain things you’ve got to do to protect them players, but you have to come out fighting for yourself because those players will drag you down and it’s going to be you who’s going to lose your job over it.”

What Happens Next at Old Trafford

United have gone seven games without a win, which is their worst run in a decade. Louis van Gaal’s side went eight games without a victory at the end of 2015. Carrick will face questions about Fernandes and his own position when he holds his pre-match news conference at 13:30 BST on Friday, ahead of the Bournemouth game at Old Trafford.

Fernandes will stay on as club captain and will not be disciplined for his comments, so the next test is how the players respond on the pitch. Rooney has made clear what he expects from them.