It was a fabulous weekend of Sports all round. Irelands Katie Taylor was crowned the World Lightweight Champion, Andy Ruiz shocked Anthony Joshua in Maddison Square Garden and Liverpool beat Spurs to become the Champions of Europe.
Taylor’s victory was hardly surprising given her reputation but the Bray native has taken another step up in Boxing royalty and writes herself into Irish sporting history. She arrived home today to a heroes welcome, and Shane Ross couldn’t help himself stealing some of her limelight. If she wasn’t already considered an Irish sporting great, she really should be now.
In comparison, Andy Ruiz’ defeat of Anthony Joshua shook the boxing world. I’m no boxing fan but even I was surprised when I seen the news. I have to admit to loving the fact that a man who looks like he prepared for the fight by binging episodes of Breaking Bad on Netflix and munching on bags of Doritos beat a 6,6 hulking machine. I’d give you a step by step review of the fight and where Joshua went wrong but, to be honest, I have absolutely no idea what i’m taking about.
Away from boxing, Liverpool beat Spurs in what was possibly the worst champions league final in living memory. The tension really seemed to get to the players of both sides which lead to cautious approach . The early goal meant that Klopps side never really had to take risks and could afford to sit back with Spurs rarely looking like breaching their rearguard.
While Anthony Joshua showed himself to be human on Saturday night Virgil Van Dyk continued his meteoric rise and looked unfathomable next to Joel Matip. The returning Harry Kane and Heung Min Son may as well have stayed in London as they were barely given a sniff. Even when the Liverpool defence did show a chink in its armour, Allison was there to save the day. Lucas Moura probably had the best chance of the game for Tottenham after a Son sighter was pushed away by the goalkeeper. Brazilian reacted well to the rebounded effort but it was a tame shot from his compatriot.
Lots of Spurs possession but very few clear cut chances and a strange lack of intensity was the major feature of the game. The Barcelona comeback hero Divrock Origi came on and scored a second goal to end the contest and and robbed neutrals of a frantic final few minutes. It was a fitting end to a fantastic season for the reds and it would have been unjust for them not to be rewarded for an incredible year.