Patrick Van Dort

​Northern Ireland Football League chief executive Gerard Lawlor has hit out at what he views “the sheer irony of hypocrisy” following celebrations over Belfast’s selection as EURO 2028 qualifying draw hosts.

Northern Ireland sporting legend Michael Dunlop has been left ‘deeply honoured’ after receiving his MBE from King Charles at Windsor Castle for services to motorcycle racing.

The inaugural NIFL Women’s Football Awards ceremony has been celebrated as “an opportunity to honour not just the players, but also the incredible staff and volunteers who have played a vital role in the continued growth of the NIFL female game”.

Northern Ireland fans took to social media in the aftermath of Monday’s loss to Germany by a single goal – with comments covering the superb Windsor Park atmosphere, impressive home display and frustration over the match officials.

Will Patching grabbed a brace – kicking off and closing the Shamrock Park scoring for Coleraine in a convincing 4-1 success over Portadown that also featured Matthew Shevlin plus Joel Cooper on target before James Teelan’s home consolation.

​Injuries and red cards may stand as factors beyond Glenavon’s control behind a start to the Irish League season now six games without a point but assistant manager Colin Coates has also highlighted frustration at defensive frailties.

​Northern Ireland’s Josh Rock suffered a second successive European Tour final heartbreak but stood defiant “I’m starting to be a proper dart player now”.

Northern Ireland’s Mar-Train Racing team will step away from the sport at the end of the current British Superbike Championship season.

​Northern Ireland’s Josh Rock declared “that’s why he is the world champion” as darts sensation Luke Littler turned the tables on a 4-1 deficit to lift another European Tour title.

Clubs across the three Irish League divisions have been busy in the transfer market heading into this weekend’s fixture programme.