Big 12 not quite the same, but it feels like home to a 98-year-old Colorado fan
Peggy Coppom says it was a good day to be a Colorado Buffaloes fan when university regents approved the school's move back to the Big 12 next year
2023-07-28 18:21
England sweat on Keira Walsh fitness amid avalanche of ACL injuries impacting Women’s World Cup
ACL injuries have already influenced the Women’s World Cup with the contenders weakened after a number of key players were ruled out in the build-up to the tournament in Australia and New Zealand. Players are asking why the injury has been so prevalent in women’s football, including glaring omissions of Netherlands forward Vivianne Miedema, England's Leah Williamson and Beth Mead, Canada's Janine Beckie and rising USA star Catarina Macario in this tournament. And now the Lionesses will be forced to sweat on the health of Keira Walsh, who suffered a knee injury to be forced off against Denmark. The Barcelona midfielder was taken off on a stretcher, replaced by Laura Coombs, and appeared distraught, covering her face with her hands. "I'm devastated for her to be honest,” said Ellen White on BBC Sport. “She's been one of the best if not the best player for England. She knew it didn't look good. She'll be a big miss. Laura has come in, I'm devastated for her." While Jonas Eidevall added that the dry pitch may have contributed to the injury: “It's a danger to player welfare to have such a dry pitch. It's not good enough. I'm a big advocate of watering the pitches, it makes the ball go faster and stops situations like this.” USWNT midfielder Andi Sullivan, who tore her ACL in college at Stanford, believes it is a “multifaceted issue” hurting the game. “I don’t know if I’m the expert in it, even though I’ve experienced it,” said Sullivan. “There’s so many different factors that could contribute to that and I think we are a little bit behind on the research as to why, so hopefully now the prevalence will kind of wake people up,” Sullivan added. “This is an issue we need to pay attention to and look more into preventing and how to handle it better.” Last year it was estimated that nearly 60 players in the world's top professional women's leagues were sidelined because of anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Among them was Spain's Alexia Putellas, who injured her ACL just before the Euros last July. Putellas, who will play for Spain at the World Cup, partnered with FIFPRO, the international players' union, to call attention to the outbreak of ACL injuries and demand a closer look at possible contributing factors including workload, medical care, field conditions and even equity. Studies have shown women are up to eight times more likely to suffer ACL injuries in sports involving sudden changes of direction, like soccer and basketball, than their male counterparts. Dr. Mark Cullen, the team physician for the University of New Hampshire who specializes in orthopedic surgery, says women have wider hips which impacts knee mechanics. “They also tend to land a little bit more stiff-legged and don’t absorb the forces as well as their male counterparts, and that puts more force on the ACL and contributes to the tears,” Cullen said. Katie Rood, who plays professionally in Scotland, was hoping to make New Zealand's roster and play in soccer's biggest tournament on home soil. But she recently announced that she had joined the “ever-growing ACL club.” “It’s been an interesting process so far and one I’m sure I’ll learn a lot from, especially as it’s a serious issue in the women’s game. What’s hit me quite hard in this situation is just how many times I’ve been asked ‘Is the club looking after you?’” she wrote. “It’s a reminder that health care and medical treatment isn’t often the norm in the women’s game and we all know of players being left to fend for themselves after getting seriously injured with their clubs.” Rood, however, praised her team for their support. Miedema won’t be ready in time to help the Netherlands when it returns to the Women's World Cup after finishing as runner-up to the United States four years ago in France. She is one of four players from Arsenal in the Women’s Super League currently sidelined by ACL injuries. The list includes Williamson, who tore her ACL in April. When Arsenal’s Laura Wienroither tore her ACL earlier this month, Miedema posted on social media: “At least we will all be in the gym together. PS. ACL group is full now. Please no more.” Five of the nominees the 2022 women's Ballon d’Or — Putellas, Miedema, Macario, Mead and France’s Marie-Antoinette Katoto — all sustained ACL injuries last year. Mead, who won the Golden Boot at the Women's Euros last year, was left off England's 23-player roster for the World Cup. “We have to take care of players and do what’s smart, and not do what’s a little bit naive,” England coach Sarina Wiegman said. Having already lost Katoto, France was dealt another ACL blow when Delphine Cascarino tore her ACL while playing for Lyon. Lyon teammate Macario, one of the most promising young U.S. attackers, tore her ACL last June. Macario rehabbed at Aspetar, a specialized sports medicine facility in Qatar, but announced in May that she wouldn't make it back in time for the World Cup. Aside from the mechanics, there's an emotional toll that such long-term injuries take on athletes. For some, it means the loss of a paycheck, for others it may be that their careers stall or are cut short. Others miss out on chances to play in the World Cup. Tierna Davidson, who plays for the Chicago Red Stars in the National Women's Soccer League, tore her ACL last March. She said the injury and the rehab helped her appreciate her career. “At the beginning, I felt like I was impatient and I was frustrated. When is this going to be over?” Davidson said. “But I think throughout the process, I really learned how to be patient and how to listen to myself and allow myself the space to enjoy the good things, which is important when you’re going through something like that.” Read More England vs Denmark LIVE: Women’s World Cup latest score after Lauren James goal and Keira Walsh injury Why are England wearing black armbands today? Who are the BBC World Cup commentators? Alex Scott, Fara Williams and full list of pundits Laura Coombs: England’s unlikely midfield general in profile Women’s World Cup groups: A comprehensive guide to each squad Women’s World Cup TV schedule: How to watch every match today
2023-07-28 17:54
England fans heartbroken as Keira Walsh suffers knee injury against Denmark
England Lionesses fans were left shocked after Keira Walsh appeared to suffer a serious knee injury during the Women’s World Cup game against Denmark. The Barcelona midfielder was in tears as she was stretchered off during the first half of the match in Sydney. Walsh was seen in television pictures mouthing: “I’ve done my knee.” The 26-year-old had played some neat passes in the opening part of the group stage match, but was replaced in the 38th minute by Laura Coombs. Walsh was comforted by team mate Rachel Daly. Sign up to our free Indy100 weekly newsletter While it is too early to know exactly what the problem is, the incident has echoes of the anterior cruciate ligament injury which has dogged women’s football lately. Some of the biggest names in the game including England captain Leah Williamson are absent because of a wave of ACL injuries in recent years. It is a common sight in the women’s game when clubs and countries are forced to announce that their biggest stars will be out for months on end. Other stars to miss the tournament are England’s Beth Mead and the Netherlands striker Vivianne Miedema, who both suffered the injury in November. Canada's Janine Beckie and the USA’s Catarina Macario are in the same boat. England fans were heartbroken to see one of their key players suffer what could be a serious injury. One person said: “Some players can’t be replaced and Keira Walsh is one of them.” Another person added: “We cannot lose Keira Walsh…. Praying for your knee.” One other commenter added: “Keira Walsh saying "get off" and "it's my knee" is something nobody wants to hear.” England’s game against Denmark is their second of the group stage after beating Haiti 1-0 last week in an unconvincing performance. The Lionesses went into the tournament with high hopes after winning the Euros last year. However, the wave of injuries, of which Walsh is the latest, could prove detrimental to their chances. Have your say in our news democracy. Click the upvote icon at the top of the page to help raise this article through the indy100 rankings.
2023-07-28 17:51
Why are England wearing black armbands at Women’s World Cup?
England are back in action with their second Women’s World Cup 2023 against Denmark in Sydney. Sarina Wiegman made two changes from the side that started in the 1-0 victory over Haiti. Lauren James and Rachel Daly started at the Allianz Stadium, with the former curling a beautiful opener for the first Lionesses goal since the Finalissima against Brazil. England’s players could be seen wearing black armbands for the Group D match. The move is a gesture and tribute to the late Trevor Francis. Millie Bright was also wearing an armband to celebrate Indigenous People. The former England striker, who was the first £1 million player, died on Monday, aged 69. A picture and a message for Francis was also seen on the big screen at the Allianz Stadium. Francis earned 52 England caps across a legendary career playing for Birmingham City, Nottingham Forest, QPR and Sheffield Wednesday. Read More England vs Denmark LIVE: Women’s World Cup latest score as Lauren James curls in Lionesses opener Who are the BBC World Cup commentators? Alex Scott, Fara Williams and full list of pundits Women’s World Cup TV schedule: How to watch every match today
2023-07-28 17:28
Terence Crawford wins coin toss with Errol Spence Jr to make key fight-night decision
Terence Crawford won a coin toss with Errol Spence Jr on Thursday, allowing “Bud” to make a key decision for Saturday’s fight. Crawford will carry the WBO welterweight title into the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, while Spence holds the WBC, WBA and IBF belts. Both Americans are unbeaten and are among boxing’s biggest names, thus there was much debate around who would make their ring walk second and be introduced second in the ring. It was ultimately put to a coin toss at Thursday’s press conference, with Crawford, 35, winning out. The build-up to Saturday’s main event has been largely respectful, although the final press conference became heated as Crawford began to shout at a member of 33-year-old Spence’s team. “Listen, my family, Errol’s family, man...” Crawford began. “You got to calm down, brother, because listen, things can get real sticky, real quick. And then everybody will say, ‘This is what we do every time that we come out’. Social media, social media, my a**. “Bro, listen, just like you doing all that talking, it can turn deadly real quick, but on both sides. So, why not support your fighter? Let’s come together and make this event a success instead of everybody saying that every time we get together, it’s always shooting and violence. “That’s what I want. Y’all can say whatever you want, but I’m probably older than you and have been through way more than you, so I’m more mature. But I wish Errol and his people the best.” Click here to subscribe to The Independent’s Sport YouTube channel for all the latest sports videos. Read More The factor that could decide Spence vs Crawford super-fight Spence vs Crawford time: When does fight start in UK and US this weekend? Errol Spence Jr lifts lid on Anthony Joshua’s training sessions in Dallas
2023-07-28 17:20
Ryan Reynolds reaches out to Manchester United keeper after Paul Mullin injury
Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds has messaged under-fire Manchester United goalkeeper Nathan Bishop to thank him for the way he responded to injuring Wrexham’s Paul Mullin, the PA news agency understands. The fiercely ambitious League Two new boys ran out 3-1 victors against the Red Devils’ youngsters on Tuesday evening at sold-out Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. Wrexham rallied after losing Mullin to what proved to be a punctured lung sustained when Bishop accidentally collided with the striker after racing off his line in the opening stages. The 23-year-old goalkeeper was booed mercilessly from that point and the Red Dragons boss Phil Parkinson fumed about the “dangerous challenge” – inflammatory post-match comments that angered United. By contrast there was gratitude to their former goalkeeper Ben Foster, who went into the Red Devils dressing room to support Bishop and put him in contact with fan favourite Mullin. The pair have since exchanged messages. Furthermore, it is understood that famous owner Reynolds – forced to watch the match from the UK due to filming commitments – also got in contact with the United goalkeeper. The Hollywood actor thanked Bishop for the way he dealt with the incident and wished him luck for the future in an unprompted message. Wrexham complete their US tour against Philadelphia Union II on Friday and United round off their time Stateside against Borussia Dortmund in Las Vegas on Sunday. Read More Charity boss speaks out over ‘traumatic’ encounter with royal aide Ukraine war’s heaviest fight rages in east - follow live
2023-07-28 17:20
USA's Lindsey Horan becomes sensation after cameras catch her yelling "f***ing b****" at club teammate
We’re only a handful of games in, but the USA’s Lindsey Horan has already given us a great moment from the Women’s World Cup. It came during the USA’s tightly-contested 1-1 draw against the Netherlands in the group stage, and it was Horan who scored their only goal of the game. The goal took place following a clash with her club teammate Danielle van de Donk. The pair both play for Olympique Lyonnais, but it didn’t stop van de Donk from fouling her on the 59th minute and resulting in Horan needing medical attention. Of course, friendships go out the window at major tournaments and Horan was reportedly seen calling her a “f***ing b****” by the cameras while she was getting treatment. Sign up to our free Indy100 weekly newsletter She was soon back on her feet and when the USA won a corner, she was soon clashing with van de Donk again. Things got a little heated between the pair and the referee had to pull them apart before the corner was taken. They were still going at each other just before the ball came in, but Horan managed to focus before making a run to the near post and putting a great header past the keeper to tie the game. It looked like there was no love lost between Horan and van de Donk, but the club teammates were spotted making up after the game. Have your say in our news democracy. Click the upvote icon at the top of the page to help raise this article through the indy100 rankings.
2023-07-28 17:17
England vs Denmark LIVE: Women’s World Cup latest scores and Lionesses team news as Rachel Daly starts
England continue their Women’s World Cup campaign against Denmark in a crunch Group D clash in Sydney. The Lionesses got their tournament underway with a narrow 1-0 win against Haiti, but they were reliant on a Georgia Stanway penalty and a key save from Mary Earps as Sarina Wiegman said her side lacked “ruthlessness” in front of goal. The European champions, who have now not scored a goal from open play in three matches, will need to improve as they take on Denmark and their star forward Pernille Harder. Denmark also got off to a winning start as they edged China 1-0. Both teams will be looking for improvement as well as a place in the knockout stages. Victory in Sydney would put England on the verge of the last-16, with China facing Haiti in the other match in Group D later today. Follow the latest World Cup scores, updates and news in today’s live blog Read More How to watch England vs Denmark: TV channel and start time for Women’s World Cup fixture Sarina Wiegman must take chance to reset England’s World Cup bid Darts, colouring in and 1,000 bags of Yorkshire tea: Inside the Lionesses’ World Cup den Women’s World Cup schedule: How to watch every match today
2023-07-28 15:58
Renard a doubtful starter ahead of France's important Women's World Cup match against Brazil
France star Wendie Renard was injured in her first appearance of this Women’s World Cup and her status is now in question for an important match against Brazil
2023-07-28 15:50
Several stars at the Women's World Cup honed their skills with US collegiate teams
Christine Sinclair
2023-07-28 15:26
The factor that could decide Spence vs Crawford super-fight
At last. It has taken over five years to get Terence Crawford and Errol Spence Jr in the same ring for their wonderful fight in Las Vegas on Saturday night. The old neon city has waited patiently for a fight like this, a fight without gimmicks, a fight with undefeated boxers and a fight that just had to happen. It might lack some of the stardust associated with the strip in Las Vegas, but it remains a fight for the ages. Spence is unbeaten in 28, he holds the IBF, WBC and WBA welterweight titles; Crawford is unbeaten in 39 and he holds the WBO version. Crawford has also held world titles at lightweight and light-welterweight. Spence is 33, Crawford is 35, and they are the most perfect rivals in an imperfect sport. Spence crashed his car, suffered injuries, had a potential career-ending eye problem and Crawford was shot in the neck and left for dead before he took boxing seriously. They have a backstory or two, don’t worry. Spence won his first welterweight title one cold, May night in Sheffield when he stopped Kell Brook in 2017; the following year, Crawford won his WBO title. A fight between the two has been discussed since the summer of 2018. It might not be the longest wait between the first talks and the first bell, but it is the longest for a fight of this importance. There are no circus attachments here, no desperate men, no lost causes – it is just two very good fighters, both still in their primes, meeting. Well, actually, they are an exceptional pair of fighters, quite brilliant in many ways. Spence has looked long and hard at moving up in weight to light-middle and has so far made six defences of his welterweight title. Some, it must be said, have not been spectacular. Crawford has also made six defences and stopped or knocked out all six men. He has appeared more focused. However, both have been guilty of holding out for the type of money that came so close to ending any chances of this fight ever happening. They have both talked about the risks they take as fighters and the need to maximise their pay, their cash, their fee for fighting. Thankfully a compromise has been found to satisfy their pockets. This is strictly a fight for money, but wealth is health in the boxing game. All the talk of pride, unification and being called the best welterweight in the world are just nice and necessary tributes. There is, by the way, nothing wrong with two boxers admitting that money has kept them apart and that money has finally brought them together. Legacy, it seems, belongs in another time and place. It is the first proper unification between two men holding all the existing welterweight belts (four now, three then) since the night in Atlantic City in 1986 when Lloyd Honeyghan ruined Donald Curry. Honeyghan was the welterweight king, the man on that long and glorious night; the winner at the T-Mobile Arena will take that fanciful crown. The Curry and Honeyghan fight was anonymous, which is often forgotten. This fight has become an event during the last few days, and at about 10pm in Las Vegas on Saturday night, we will have another welterweight king. They have, often in parallel boxing worlds, beaten the best men at their weight and have, on occasion, eyed each other up close and personal. The fight was made, mentioned, desired and collapsed several times. It was, thankfully, inevitable, and all parties finally saw sense and sat and talked – and talked – and found a deal to satisfy every single ego in their respective businesses. It is also the right time because there are now a pair of quite exceptional and dangerous contenders in Jaron Ennis and Vergil Ortiz Jr waiting with menace in a line. Crawford and Spence had to fight each other before either Ennis or Ortiz Jr had their crack. The wait will be worth it and all that really matters now is that it is on. Forget the money demands, the excuses, the insults, the threats and anything else that somehow stopped this fight taking place. Forget it all. It’s on, so sit back and enjoy it. Crawford has aged better during the five years and one month they have shared as champions. That should be the factor once that first bell sounds. Read More Spence vs Crawford time: When does fight start in UK and US this weekend? Errol Spence Jr lifts lid on Anthony Joshua’s training sessions in Dallas Naoya Inoue, the best boxer in the world, fights on Tuesdays
2023-07-28 15:20
How to watch England vs Denmark: TV channel and start time for Women’s World Cup fixture
England continue their Women’s World Cup campaign against Denmark in a crunch Group D clash in Sydney. The Lionesses got their tournament underway with a narrow 1-0 win against Haiti as Sarina Wiegman said her side lacked “ruthlessness” in front of goal. LIVE! Follow coverage of England vs Denmark with our blog Denmark also got off to a winning start as they edged China 1-0, so both teams will be looking for improvement as they target a place in the knockout stages. Wiegman hinted that England are likely to make changes for Denmark, who are led by former Chelsea forward Pernille Harder. Here’s everything you know as the Lionesses continue their World Cup campaign What time is England vs Denmark? The Group D match will kick off at 9:30am BST on Friday 28 July at the Sydney Football Stadium. What TV channel is it on? England vs Denmark will be shown live on BBC One and on the BBC iPlayer, with coverage starting from 9am. England’s final group-stage fixture is against China on Tuesday 1 August and will be shown on ITV, with the match starting at 12pm BST. Should England make it through to the round of 16, their fixture will be shown live on the BBC. Click here for the full World Cup TV guide. Team news Sarina Wiegman has a fully fit squad and the manager has hinted that she will make changes to try and spark the Lionesses into life. Wiegman, who did not make any changes to her starting line-up during the Euros, could bring in Lauren James and Rachel Daly in attack. The back-four is likely to remain the same, with Millie Bright partnering Jess Carter and Lucy Bronze and Alex Greenwood at full-back, in front of goalkeeper Mary Earps. Keira Walsh will shield the back-line alongside Georgia Stanway, England’s goalscorer against Haiti, in midfield. Ella Toone, Lauren Hemp and Chloe Kelly face competition from James, while Daly could be preferred to Alessia Russo. Predicted line-up Earps; Bronze, Bright, Carter, Greenwood; Walsh, Stanway; Kelly, James, Hemp; Daly Read More Sarina Wiegman must take chance to reset England’s World Cup bid Darts, colouring in and 1,000 bags of Yorkshire tea: Inside the Lionesses’ World Cup den Women’s World Cup schedule: How to watch every match today
2023-07-28 15:15