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Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Your Metro Herald packed with news, sport and features
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tuesday, February 11, 2014
Travel: Alpine alchemy
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Quinn ‘a fool over Anglo’
A tunnel vision... A model on the catwalk at the Carolina Herrera fashion show at the Lincoln Centre yesterday during New York Fashion Week. The twice yearly event features 300 shows from designers old and new, ranging from Diane Von Furstenberg (whose wrap dress is celebrating its 40th anniversary) to Victoria Beckham, who turned up for her runway show with footballer husband David and their children Picture: PA
Criminal Court he had been a victim in the collapse of the bank and that he had been in business for 40 years and had never had a legal battle with anyone until the fall-out with anglo. He claimed that anglo chiefs knew the full extent of looming troubles at the bank in late 2007, shortly after he told david drumm, the then CeO, and FitzPatrick about the scale of his holding, but they set about lending hundreds of millions. ‘What I’m saying is that in 2007-08 we lost €3.2billion through the anglo fiasco,’ he said. ‘I was a fool. I was a fool to believe. I got a right beating over the last few years.’ Mr Quinn’s evidence was interspersed with a touch of gallows humour over his losses which at one stage prompted a blunt warning from Judge Martin nolan to the crowds packed into the court that laughter was not permitted. He dismissed correspondence between the bank and the Quinn Group, which said it would sell hotels and property, including in Prague, russia and Ukraine, to pay almost half of a €1.2bn debt in 2008, as a ‘sham’ written for the benefit of the regulator and anglo’s records. The trial continues.
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by ed cArty
Ireland’s one-time richest man sean Quinn has said he was a fool in losing €3.2billion gambling on anglo Irish Bank shares, a court has heard. The 67-year-old said he initially only meant to make modest investments in the stock, but ended up using nine brokers to buy almost 30 per cent of the now-defunct lender. ‘at the time we only talked about putting our toe in the water but I’m afraid the whole feet, head, neck and heels went in,’ Mr Quinn said. The fraud trial of three former anglo executives over alleged illegal loans for share trades heard the bankrupt former billionaire claim the bank had struck a ‘sweetheart deal’ with investors to unwind his position in July 2008. The bank’s former chairman and one-time CeO sean FitzPatrick, 65, of Whitshed road, Greystones, Co Wicklow, former chief risk officer Willie Mcateer, 63, of auburn Villas, rathgar, and former Md of lending Pat Whelan, 51, of Coast road, Malahide, deny 16 charges of providing unlawful loans for clients to buy shares in the bank. Whelan has denied a further seven charges in relation to the alteration of loan facility letters. Mr Quinn, of Ballyconnell, Co Cavan, repeatedly told dublin Circuit
METRO HERALD Tuesday, February 11, 2014
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The number of people awarded the highest ranking in the ancient martial art of ninjutsu, including the latest, Jake Sharpstone, 48, from Brighton Ireland’s rate of newsprint recycling is now up to 79%. Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you.
Today is... Extraterrestrial Culture Day
When Roswell, New Mexico, officially celebrates its most exotic visitors
Roses are red, my true love runs deeper Than the bed of the track beneath the Dart sleepers
From the archives (2013): City rents rise 6.4 per cent
Rents are on the rise across Dublin, with the latest figures showing a 6.4 per cent increase in city centre prices during 2012. The average rent in the city centre is now €1,117, while in North County Dublin it is €945 per month, according to Daft.ie.
Today’s birthdays Burt Reynolds, actor, 78; Sheryl Crow, singer, 52; Jennifer Aniston, actress, 45; Steve McManaman, former footballer, 42; Kelly Rowland (pictured), singer, 33.
Hire Terry.
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Weather Weather Today
Max: 6°c
A cold, raw day with sunny spells and heavy wintry showers of hail, sleet and snow, especially through western, northern and midland areas, with moderate accumulations especially on higher ground. Temperatures between 5°C to 7°C in fresh to strong and gusty westerly winds.
1�C
Donegal
3�C
2�C
Galway
3�C
Athlone
Dublin
3�C
6�C
Tipperary Waterford
Tralee
Tonight
Belfast
Cavan
Cork
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5�C
5�C Sunrise: 7.52am Sunset: 5.28pm
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Other than a few wintry type showers near west coasts, the night will be dry, though a widespread sharp ground frost will form. Temperatures between -1°C to 1°C in strong southwest winds.
EUROPE today
Tomorrow Rain may be preceded by sleet over hills of the north, but it will clear to showers, sunny spells. Temperatures between 4°C to 8°C in strong southwest winds.
4�C 4�C 5�C 7�C
8�C
4�C 5�C 6�C Max: 8°c
Athens
14 °c
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Berlin
9 °c 6 °c
Brussels London Geneva Madrid Paris Rome
7 °c 6 °c 8 °c 6 °c 12 °c
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Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
Getting ahead of the rest... traveller turns the commute into a world of cartoon fun
I’m on the train into toon
Man or mouse? Mickey Mouse starts spoiling for a fight Pictures: OctOber JOnes MOST people spend their commute with eyes glued to their smartphones, looking out the window or – especially in big cities – doing anything to avoid eye contact with others. But animator October Jones has come up with a different way to pass
Rivals: Wile E. Coyote and Road Runner
Glum: Winnie the Pooh heads home
Just chilling: Hellboy watches a movie
Senses tingling: Spider-Man stares back
Phoning home? ET caught on phone
Don’t make me angry: The Hulk texts
by SHAROn MARRIS time on his journey to work – armed with sticky notes, marker pens and lots of imagination he draws cartoon heads on his fellow passengers. Just a few pencil strokes give his
Twitter followers the impression he is travelling with Spider-Man, Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner, Winnie the Pooh and many others. His most retweeted sketches show Mickey Mouse glaring at a passenger who laughed at his squeaky voice and
a feisty looking ET caught phoning home in the train’s quiet zone. Where possible Jones, real name Joe Butcher, colour co-ordinates his characters’ heads with unsuspecting commuters’ clothes. A movie montage of his cartoons
Lina spends her day designing force fields. No, really.
has been viewed almost 1million times on YouTube and the illustrator has 73,000 Twitter followers. Jones, of Birmingham, is also known for his blog on Tumblr called Text from Dog, which was published as a book last year.
www.careerzoo.ie
The team at Symantec respond to the world’s most sophisticated security threats from their Dublin Response Centre.
- One of the companies hiring at Career Zoo, 15.02.14.
Meet Your Future.
METRO HERALD Tuesday, February 11, 2014
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Boxer candidate unveiled by Fine Gael Aer Lingus CEO Mueller: ‘Difficult situation’
Airports staff vote for strike action AIR passengers in the country’s busiest airports could face disruption in the coming weeks as members of trade union Siptu at Dublin and Cork have voted to take industrial action, including an all-out strike. The trade union representing DAA staff is seeking an acceptable resolution of the dispute over the pension deficit in the Irish Airlines Superannuation Scheme (IASS). Last year, a funding proposal to address the deficit of €800million by restructuring pension arrangements was rejected by the Pensions Board. Speaking last week, Aer Lingus CEO Christoph Mueller said: ‘The difficulty of the situation is such that there’s is no remedy possible from the airline’s side unless we breach the law, so that is a very difficult situation we are confronted with.’
Olympic boxing silver medallist Kenny Egan has been unveiled as Fine Gael’s candidate for the clondalkin Ward in the upcoming local elections. The 32-year-old, who wants to be called Kenneth, was yesterday welcomed to the party by children minister Frances Fitzgerald and local councillor Emer Higgins in an event at the louis Fitzgerald Hotel.
The boxer was scheduled to announce his intentions on The late late Show, but the interview was cancelled amid fears it would leave RTÉ open to claims of bias. mr Egan said he was delighted to be joining Fine Gael and that he hopes to make a difference in his local community: ‘i was born and bred in clondalkin, and i am very committed to the area. i want to do
the best for clondalkin,’ he said. He said he wanted to meet as many local people as he could and find out about the issues that mattered to them. The boxer added: ‘my motto is and always has been to “Keep it Real” and i intend to follow this on my political journey. As with my sporting career, i have always aimed for success.’
12 years for man who had sex with partner’s child by sOnyA McLEAn
Terenure death: Man charged A 31-YEAR-OLD was remanded in custody yesterday after he was charged with the murder of a father-of-three at the weekend. Cathal Sweeney, 62, died after he was attacked in a flat in Terenure on Saturday. Mr Sweeney, a former captain of St Mary’s Rugby club, had suffered head injuries after a row broke out. Gary Walsh, of Ravensdale, Kimmage, was arrested at the scene before appearing at Dublin District Court yesterday, where he was charged with Mr Sweeney’s murder. Mr Walsh remained silent during the brief hearing.
Jail for attack on ex-girlfriend A MAN who launched a violent attack on his pregnant ex-girlfriend has been given the maximum sentence of five years. Judge Patrick McCartan noted there was ‘little to be said’ for Daniel Prenderville, 26, after he failed to apologise for the assault. Prenderville, formerly of Rutland Avenue, Crumlin, is serving six years for possession of a firearm. He was convicted last December of assaulting the woman in October 2011. Judge McCartan said it was clear Prenderville had contested the case on the basis the victim would not have the courage to testify.
New image: Kenneth Egan
A pooch in a snood beats a cat in a hat any day... Abbs, an Afghan Hound, stands in the penning area at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in New York. Some 2,845 dogs compete in the annual event, in 190 breeds and varieties Picture: reuters
A mAN who, after falling out with his partner, turned to her ten-year-old daughter for sex has been sentenced to 12 years in jail. The man, who cannot be named to protect the identity of his victim, told gardaí he had been having difficulty with his partner and it came into his mind that he would ‘ask the child for sex and if she said no i would stop’. The abuse came to light when the girl’s mother discovered her diary and the gardaí were contacted. Dublin circuit criminal court heard the offences were ‘an appalling sexualisation of a relationship’ and that the defendant was delusional in the way he ‘substituted a child for the position of his partner’, but that he has since accepted full responsibility for his actions. The 38-year-old man, who is originally from the philippines as are the victim and her mother, pleaded guilty to four charges of defilement, having sex with a child without their consent, and 15 charges of sexual assault of the girl between 2010 and 2013, when the victim was aged between ten and 13 years. The victim described the abuse to a specialist child investigator in June 2013 when she outlined that the man first started to kiss her and touch her chest when she was ten before he had started to have sex with her when she was about 12 years old. She told gardaí that the man would make her perform oral sex on him and also perform oral sex on her. The man was arrested in July 2013 and made ‘substantial admissions’. mr Justice paul carney suspended the final three years of the sentence having taken into account his plea of guilty, his admissions, his good work history and lack of previous convictions. He also ordered that the man carry out 18 months of post-release supervision and stay away from his victim in perpetuity.
Fees lead bank customers to cut use of debit cards mORE than a third of current account customers said they no longer qualified for free banking which has resulted in them making larger cash withdrawals and using their debit cards less. Some 28 per cent of those questioned in a survey by The National consumer Agency said they take out more cash when making withdrawals, which is almost double the number who said the same in 2013. Some 25 per cent said they use their debit cards less often compared to 13 per cent last year. The agency published the findings of their
consumer research which also found one in seven current account holders don’t know whether they are being charged fees. Six per cent of respondents had switched their current account in the last twelve months, with eight per cent planning on switching accounts in the next six months. Fergal O’leary, the NcA’s director of public awareness and financial education, said that while there is now less choice in the current account market, account holders can do a cost comparison online at consumerhelp.ie.
Larger ATM withdrawals: Fees impact on usage
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Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
Gardaí were not involved in bugging of watchdog
by ED cARTy
Drugs firm’s jobs boost for Athlone A US pharmaceuticals firm is to build a manufacturing and development facility creating 160 temporary construction jobs and 50 full-time jobs in Athlone. Jazz Pharmaceuticals will invest between €45million and €50m in building, development and personnel costs at the 17-acre site in Monksland, Co Roscommon, on the western outskirts of Athlone. ‘The 160 jobs being created in the construction phase will provide an opportunity for some of those people who lost jobs in this sector in recent years,’ said Taoiseach Enda Kenny. The company first began operating in Ireland in 2012 after a merger with Azur Pharma.
Call for poster ban during Giro d’Italia
picture: andres poveda
GARDAÍ were not involved in the bugging of the headquarters of the force’s watchdog, it has been confirmed. The Garda Siochána Ombudsman Commission (GSOC) revealed a security sweep of its offices by UK security experts in September of last year identified three technical and electronic anomalies that could not be explained. The watchdog released the findings after a meeting with Justice Minister Alan Shatter and calls from Taoiseach Enda Kenny to reveal the extent of the breach. They did not report the bugging to Government or call in gardaí to investigate as ‘no further action was needed’. ‘There was no evidence of Garda misconduct. The Commission decided to discontinue the investigation on the basis that no further action was necessary,’ it said. ‘We did not wish to point fingers unnecessarily and we did not believe widespread reporting would be conducive to public confidence. We took the decision not to report in good faith,’ it said. Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan reacted angrily over suggestions the force had been suspected of the bugging. ‘It is a cause of concern that the GSOC’s statement contains a clear indication An Garda Siochána was in some way suspected of complicity in this, despite finding the existence of anomalies could not be explained,’ Mr Callinan said.
KIDS FROM FRAME: Emma Moriarty and Caoimhe O’Callaghan from Kinsale Community School at the launch of Safer Internet Day with The Voice’s Kim Hayden and singer Gavin James. An #UP2US AntiBullying Kit was also launched at the event – for more, see www.facebook.com/watchyourspace
POLITICAL parties in Northern Ireland are under pressure to remove all election posters during the Giro d’Italia cycle race in May. The event clashes with the runup to polling for the European and local government elections and it is understood organisers want to keep the route free of party political placards to impress a TV audience estimated at 800 million. Three stages of the race will take place in Belfast, the north coast and Co Armagh, with a fourth coming to Dublin. SDLP Euro candidate Alex Attwood said: ‘There is a responsibility to present the best possible picture of Northern Ireland.’
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METRO HERALD Tuesday, February 11, 2014
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60 seconds JAMiE CARnEy, aka Jamie Jay Car, 23, has released a rap song and video about the fact he is missing a leg. The Finglas student is an occasional stand-up and radio presenter on Near FM
Rather than viewing your disability as a setback you’ve capitalised on it for your craft. Was that a difficult thing to do? Not really. I was born with just
one leg. It doesn’t bother me though. I’d much prefer to be born without a leg than being born without a penis, so I count myself lucky. The standup I do is centred on my leg and the various situations I find myself in because of it. Adam Hills [Australian comic with one leg] is brilliant. I am really impressed with his confidence and carefree-ness, which I really admired because I see those same traits in myself.
asked! Well apart from being an extremely talented musical genius like no other before, I’m a 23-year-old student with Fás but I hope to go to ‘proper college’ when I’m finished there. I also volunteer for a radio station in Coolock called Near FM 90.3. I present Lunchtime Miscellany every second Wednesday at 1pm.
There are several Irish rappers gaining in profile around at the moment. Do they lay on the working class schtick a bit? I know a couple of guys from
Finglas who are proper rappers and are really making a go of it. I think Have you recorded music be- they’re fantastic. I say fair play to fore now? No, this is my first them. They’re doing something cresong, but it’s got such a good reac- ative with their lives and I think it’s tion that I’m very tempted to do absolutely fantastic. Clearly they’re some more. I’m not lyrically talent- not as talented as me though… and ed in any way shape or form, or am no I don’t really think they lay on the working class thing too much. I being modest? I’ll let you deFor some of them that’s all cide. It was so much fun they know, so they tried doing the video. My to put their emotions aim was to make and feelings into people laugh and It doesn’t bother me. their tracks. I have give them a bit of to mention Lethal I’d much prefer to be a shock because Dialect though. the public are so born without a leg He is one of the used to seeing the best and is going than be born same sort of perto go really far. I son, and I think my without a penis recommend everycompletely different one to check him out, attitude and appearhe will completely ance gives it that shock/ change your outlook on Irish comedy factor. rap.
“
What has the reaction been like from your mates? To be
How did the video come about? I recorded the song with
honest I thought I was going to get a roasting from the lads, but to my the help of a lovely fella in a recordsurprise they all loved it. They ing studio in The Axis in Ballymun. thought it was very funny. I’m sure I wrote it myself and edited the vidthere’s been some friendly banter eo but I dragged my little brother but I’m thick-skinned and if they go Jake up out of bed on a Sunday too far with the slaggings I’ll just morning to be the cameraman for take my leg off and bash them over the video. He wasn’t too impressed. the head with it. I jest… Just be- He did a fantastic job though; he has a gift with the camera. cause you have a disability doesn’t mean you can’t Who inspired you have a bit of fun, and I the most? Eminem wanted that to come would be a big hero across in the video. I’m not ashamed to me. I saw him I love making peoat Oxegen a couof my disability. ple laugh even if ple of years back it’s at my own exWithout it I and I nearly pense. Also, I wouldn’t be the soiled my trouwanted people to sers. I look up to person I realise I’m not all musicians really. ashamed of my disaam today It’s hard to make it in bility. Quite the oppothat business so I have site – without it I wouldn’t respect for anyone who be the person I am today. does. Alan Caulfield
“
Aside from being a musical genius what are your interests? I love how that question was
Check out #oneleggedrapper and other sketches from Jamie on YouTube.com/jamiejaycarvideos
GOODIE BAG: At the launch of USI’s Sexual Health Awareness and Guidance (SHAG) campaign were NCI students Jordon Nolan and Keeva O’Neill. Some 45,000 SHAG packs will be given out on campuses nationwide
O’Dowd: X Factor viewers are racist By SHERnA nOAH BLACK SINGERS do not go far enough on The X Factor because the ‘viewing public is racist’, Irish funnyman Chris O’Dowd has suggested. The actor, 34, who shot to fame on The IT Crowd and starred in movie Bridesmaids, told the UK’s Radio Times he was a ‘big X Factor fan’. But the Moone Boy writer added: ‘Generally my favourites go out in the first few weeks and, of course, because the viewing public is so
O’Dowd: ‘Big X Factor fan’ racist, all the black, strong singers go out in round five every year.’ Last year, X Factor contestant
Hannah Barrett revealed she has been subjected to ‘horrible, racist comments’ on Twitter during her stint on the show. She told Reveal magazine: ‘People say I’m too dark to be a singer. People say: “You’re black and ugly” and nasty things like that... The sad thing is that most of them are made by black people who just have lighter skin than me.’ Hallelujah singer Alexandra Burke became the first black contestant to win the show in 2008, while 2006 winner Leona Lewis, has a black father and white mother.
Body taken from sea Prince Harry death as search continues plotter sent to jail RESCUERS searching for two men who went missing on a walk of the Sheep’s Head peninsula on the Cork and Kerry border said a body has been recovered from the water. The body was found at about 12.30pm yesterday by members of the Irish Coastguard searching the cliffs on the northern side of the peninsula. It is believed to be that of one of two missing tourists. A Dutchman, whose family has a holiday home near Kilcrohane, and his German friend have not been heard from since the weekend. The Dutchman’s mother contacted Gardaí on Sunday after last speaking with the men on Saturday when her son said they might go for a walk along Sheep’s Head. Weather conditions were poor at the time, with gale force winds and high waves.
A CONVICTED criminal who plotted to kill Prince Harry has been jailed for three years. While Ashraf Islam’s plan was described as ‘vague and unlikely to succeed’, a judge ruled he did pose a risk to the public. Belfast-born Ashraf Islam, 31, who changed his name by deed poll in 2010 following his conversion to Islam, had given the matter ‘considerable thought’. Judge Richard McGregor-Johnson, the recorder for the royal borough of Kensington and Chelsea, said he would not go over details of Islam’s plot. But he told Isleworth crown court during the brief hearing: ‘This was not a threat made in isolation.’
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Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
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METRO HERALD Tuesday, February 11, 2014
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Arthur: I wish I was poor and unknown J amES arthur added to concerns over his mental health after the hounded star hinted he had toyed with taking his life in the wake of an ugly Twitter spat. The beleaguered Impossible singer said he wished he had never found fame on The X Factor as he struggled with the fallout from a fresh argument – this time, with 23year-old glamour model Teddy Edwardes. ‘If I was anyone else I’d have killed myself by now with the abuse I’ve suffered because of the British media vilifying me,’ the 25-year-old tweeted in response to a deluge of abuse after their showdown went viral. His fresh meltdown came
by SEAMUS DUFF
after Edwardes claimed he propositioned her for sex via text message – and then turned nasty when she declined. The glamour model posted copies of the exchange online, along with a note of the last time they communicated by phone, dating from more than four months ago. But arthur claimed the messages were sent by an assistant, who has since been fired. ‘Dis-
graceful propaganda. No proof. No substantial sources. People jumping on bandwagons. I wish I was still poor and unknown. This is hell,’ he posted from on tour in Switzerland. The latest feud follows a furore over a rap in which arthur made a homophobic comment. It offended thousands of fans and prompted a backlash from gay stars. arthur made a series of apologies – including one live on The X Factor – and left Twitter in November before returning.
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Damon Albarn has been hailed as the king of innovation – and is picking up a trophy to prove it. The Blur frontman will be presented with a special gong in recognition of his contribution to music at this month’s NME Awards. Albarn, who is gearing up to release his first solo album, will be celebrated by music heavyweights at the ceremony on February 26 at the O2 Academy in London. Votes can be cast at www.nme.com.
No wonder Tom Daley’s doing cartwheels. Endorsements have started to roll in for the 19year-old who has been named as the face of adidas’s Neo Label. To launch the partnership, the Olympian shared a video with his social media fanbase that saw him model different looks from the range. ‘The jumper I wore for the shoot is one of my favourites at the moment, it’s exactly what I like to throw on after training with a pair of jeans,’ he said.
Strutting Prince gets brollied at nightclub
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Myleene Klass ‘couldn’t cope’ after making a mercy trip to her mother’s typhoon-ravaged home in the Philippines. The singer returned to the island nation with mum Magdalena to raise awareness for the 14million whose lives were devastated when Typhoon Haiyan hit in November. ‘I sat down on my bed when I got back and I couldn’t cope with it,’ the mother of two, 35, told UTV’s Daybreak. ‘You realise there is still so much more that needs to be done. The one thing about the Filipino people is their resilience but they need that extra bit of help from people that have a bit more.’
Prince treated a London celeb haunt like a ‘catwalk’ when he bowled up to get, er, brollied at 1.30am. Despite putting it all on show a few hours earlier at a star-studded gig at the Shepherd’s Bush Empire, the US extrovert turned camera shy when he arrived at Boujis wielding a brolly and guarded by an army of security. However, the diminutive diva’s coy turn didn’t last long when he entered the club only to find his greatest hits were being played through the night. ‘He had an entourage of nine who were being supplied with champagne and vodka. Prince was dressed in gold but didn’t want to pose for any
cameras, though he did walk in like he was on a catwalk,’ said a witness. The late-night knees-up came after the 55-year-old singer performed to the likes of George Clinton and Cara Delevingne during a two-and-a-half hour set with four encores at the west London venue. It was worth the wait for fans who had queued for eight hours for tickets for the show in which Prince blasted out hits including Purple Rain and When Doves Cry. ‘Don’t you have to go to work tomorrow?’ he asked the feverish crowd. Prince is expected to announce more shows this month.
We’re the Fab Five, not the Fab Four
Golden rain: Prince tries to avoid the flashbulbs with a brolly on the way in to Boujis Picture: W8 Media/ SPlaSh
One Direction are taking screams to new decibel levels but the boys insist they have nothing on Beatlemania. Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson admitted they would be ‘fools’ to compare themselves to the Fab Four. ‘We all sat and watched the film of [The Beatles] arriving in America and that really was like us,’ said Styles, 20. ‘Stepping off the plane, the girls, the madness. It was the same as when we got there, just 50 years earlier. But none of us think we’re in the same league as them music-wise.’
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Victoria Beckham will be having a big party to celebrate turning 40... whether she likes it or not. The designer’s husband, David, is said to have invited 100 guests – including Gordon Ramsay and Eva Longoria – to help toast his wife on April 17.
Miley: Vote for me to grasp the issues by ANDREI HARMSWORTH
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olitics could be a whole lot more interesting if tDs turned up to the Dáil dressed like Miley cyrus… and that day may not be too far off. cyrus has hinted she is eyeing up the political arena as she is unhappy with her acting career. ‘i’m just not passionate about acting, because i don’t like to pretend to be somebody i’m actually not,’ said the former Hannah Montana star, 21, who has appeared on screen since she was aged 12. these days she is more interested in cupping her bare breasts as she poses for an exclusive shoot with star photographer Mario testino,
Blonde ambition: Miley Cyrus reclines in the Mario Testino photoshoot PICTUREs: MaRIo TEsTIno/ GERMan VoGUE
‘Why should i put on strange characters? i prefer to show my true colours as the real Miley cyrus,’ she explained. cyrus has politics in her blood through her late grandfather, former Democrat Kentucky state assemblyman Ronald Ray cyrus. Miley said: ‘i think a lot about politics. Despite the fact it’s the 21st century and America is so proud of being a free country, sometimes incomprehensible things happen in our society. there is racism and discrimination. i fight against that. i demand more tolerance, especially for homosexuals, who of course On the cusp: Miley is sick of acting should be allowed to marry.’ setting out her policies, Miley who has worked on the entire March also urged young people to go issue of German Vogue. wild. ‘i’m not exactly a normal citizen. My profession allows me to run around however i like,’ she said. ‘Wild outfits or crazy haircuts are not taboo for me. After all, i work in the entertainment business, which i feel is a huge plus. ‘simply because in this profession i can develop freely with no trouble at all. i’m also completely convinced that every young person has the right to get free of whatever’s restricting them. Which is why i encourage every-one to go for self-fulfilment.’ the interview appears in the March Blonde Angel issue of German Vogue, out now and also available online.
Ellie Goulding stands to win more Brit awards than ever this year as she has been nominated in the first ever social media-voted video gong. Goulding, 27, is up for I Need Your Love with Calvin Harris. The Brit awards join the Meteor Choice Music Prize in adding a social media-driven voting system for one if its gongs.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
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Building life from the W bottom up ITH space costing a premium in cities, building up has become the norm. There is another option, however – could swapping skyscrapers for subterranean living be a solution? A new project by designer James Ramsey of Raad Studio is looking beneath the streets of New York for an answer to the city’s limited green spaces. Designed in collaboration with Raad’s executive director Dan Barasch, Lowline hopes to turn the site of an abandoned tram terminal into the world’s first underground park. Like its elevated predecessor High Line – a popular public park that was built on a freight railway line above the streets on Manhattan’s West Side – the project is successfully encouraging New Yorkers to think more creatively about urban green spaces. It has already created a record for the largest number of supporters for an urban design project on funding platform Kickstarter – through which it raised just under €120,000 from 3,300 worldwide supporters. ‘The response from the local community and the city as a whole has been overwhelmingly positive,’ says Ramsey.
As the world’s population increases and skyscrapers soar upwards and upwards, will there come a time when we have to build underground? HAYLEY LEAVER examines two subterranean projects and asks – how low can we go?
‘The Lowline idea comes from the intersection of my work with sunlight and optics and my love of urban archeology. ‘I’d love to see a space that is a union of the two; something that reveres the history of our city while embracing the future. ‘I hope we don’t end up living underground, but I think we can use design and technology to exploit some of the amazing spaces beneath us in the right circumstances.’ The project’s proposed location is the one-acre former Williamsburg Bridge Trolley Terminal, just below Delancey Street on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Despite sitting unused since 1948 when the tram service was discontinued, the space still retains its original 20ft vaulted ceilings, crisscrossing rail tracks and remnant cobblestones. More importantly, it is also located in one of the least green areas of New York City. To encourage the
growth of plants and trees below street level, as well as tackle the problem of lighting, Ramsey has developed ‘remote skylight’ technology, which would transmit the necessary wavelengths of light to support photosynthesis. ‘Underground infrastructure can help the pedestrian experience at the street level, and underground spaces have a controllable temperature and environment,’ Ramsey adds. He is not alone in seeing opportunity in digging deep – underground structures are now being deemed energy efficient and a great way to preserve the appearance of greenfield and historic sites.
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op Down by Fletcher priest Architects is another such idea. The winner of the High Line for London competition, which sought out new ideas for green spaces in the UK capital, the project
proposes the transformation of the disused ‘Mail Rail’ tunnel under London’s oxford Street into an urban mushroom garden. In addition to enabling visitors to explore subterranean London, the tunnels would create the ideal environment for an urban mushroom farm with the introduction of daylight through a series of sculptural glass-fibre ‘mushrooms’. The produce could also be used in pop-up concept restaurants and cafés at street-level entrances. ‘There is a lot of hype around Lowline, but as things stand it is little more than a small patch of indoor greenery and a tree, neither of which are new,’ says Matthew Carmona, professor of planning and Urban Design at University College London’s Bartlett School of planning. ‘Cities in countries such as Canada, Japan and China, with severe winters or hot and humid summers, have long had extensive networks
The Lowline park will be built
The ‘remote skylight’ technology would transmit light to support photosynthesis, enabling plants and trees to grow
6.7m below street level
It will occupy
3,700 sq m 3,700
The Williamsburg Bridge Trolley Terminal was built in
(40,000 sq ft)
When the sun is shining, shining electricity will not be needed to light the space
1908
The Lowline’s Kickstarter campaign set a new record for the largest number of supporters for an urban design project. It raised
but has been abandoned since 1948
A 2012 exhibit featuring a
full-scale model park
in an abandoned warehouse directly above the actual site drew more than
11,000 visitors in just two weeks
of underground walkways, often lined with shops and other facilities, as an alternate way of moving around the city; and in these, it is not uncommon to see plants and even trees.’ He adds: ‘To my mind, the pop Down project is a more interesting idea. Mushrooms underground seems more fitting somehow than trying to make greenery blossom beneath our streets.’ With high building costs, an absence of natural lighting and sunlight penetration and the need for artificial ventilation all potential problems for underground construction, Carmona believes we should continue to build cities in the traditional way. ‘This has served us well for thousands of years and shows no prospect of not doing so equally well in the future. There is plenty of room and potential to meet our needs above ground.’ As land prices continue to rise however, Carmona suggests that more residents might choose to excavate under their homes to gain extra space. Developers may dig a little deeper (as well as going ever higher) too, in order to maximise the accommodation they can provide on sites. ‘In some circumstances where the landscape is particularly precious, building underground can also allow the landscape above to remain untouched, for example the building of underground houses in green belts.’
The Lowline’s high-profile supporters include film-makers Lena Dunham and Edward Norton and fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg
€120,000 from 3,300 supporters
The project is due to be finished by
2018 Source: Lowline
Pictures: Lowline
The park is expected to cost up to
€52m
with the creators seeking to raise €39m
World
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Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
digest
cricket match-fixer guilty
cruise ship on move again
inDiA: The boss of IPL cricket side Chennai Super Kings has been found guilty of illegal betting. Gurunath Meiyappan (pictured) was indicted by a panel reporting to the Supreme Court. His team could be banned over match-fixing claims which have rocked the IPL.
cHiLE: A ship taking hundreds of Britons on a round-the-world cruise set sail again yesterday after it broke down. The Black Watch, which left Southampton a month ago, anchored off Chile while its steering gear was fixed. Operator Fred. Olsen also revealed a passenger died after falling overboard on January 30.
and finally...
3,000 fighting birds saved ‘Lost’ fisherman flies home AMERicA: More than 3,000 cockfighting birds have been seized in a crackdown on the illegal sport. They were rescued in a series of raids in New York, including one at a fight event where 70 people were arrested. Fifty were found at a pet shop, along with syringes for injecting performance-enhancing drugs.
MARsHALL isLAnDs: The fisherman who claims he drifted across the Pacific for 13 months in an open boat flew home to El Salvador yesterday. Walking without a stick, Jose Alvarenga (pictured) told the island’s president: ‘I am doing very well.’
beyoncé: ‘Affair’ is just a load of baracks BEYONCÉ now knows exactly how Liz Hurley feels after the English actress was forced to deny having a fling with Bill Clinton. Yesterday the internet was buzzing with rumours of a new bout of White House hanky panky – this time involving the American singer and president Barack Obama. A French paparazzo claimed the Washington Post newspaper was planning to run a story that the pair were having an affair. Pascal Rostain’s sensational allegation on the Europe 1 radio station was picked up by other French media, including the normally straight-laced Le Figaro. A spokeswoman for Beyoncé last night dismissed the claim as ‘absurd’. Rostain, who is a friend of the jilted former French first lady Valérie Trierweiler, is due to have a memoir published this week. He insisted: ‘There is something big that is happening... it’ll go out tomorrow in the Washington Post.’ Rostain went on to say the story is about ‘an alleged affair’
Drinking craze claims two more lives
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bRAziL: A cameraman hit by a flare during protests over fare rises in Rio de Janeiro has been declared brain-dead. Santiago Andrade, 49, has been in a coma since last week picture: epa
swiTzERLAnD: Thieves made off with a giant model of a bratwurst from outside a butcher’s shop. They took the 2m (6ft 6in) sign in Toggenburg, St Gallen, in a ‘drunken prank’, police believe. ‘Whoever has it will find it difficult to hide,’ said a police spokesman.
Brief ceasefire gives Syrians a chance to flee HUNDREDS of people have been led to safety from a besieged rebel city in Syria after a UN-brokered truce was extended ‘for a few days’. A further 300 women, children and elderly people were taken out of Homs, bringing the daily total to about 1,000 residents escaping the bombardment by forces loyal to president Bashar al-Assad. The operation was led by the Syrian Red Crescent humanitarian group, which also used the truce to ferry aid into the stricken city. UN humanitarian affairs chief Baroness Valerie Amos yesterday welcomed the agreement by the Syrian government and opposition to extend the cease-fire. She added that ‘UN and Syrian Arab Red Crescent
aid workers were deliberately targeted’ over the weekend while trying to help people in Homs. Meanwhile, a watchdog agency said Syria has shipped a third batch of chemical weapons material out of its territory. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) said the material has been transferred to a Norwegian cargo vessel. The Hague-based OPCW, which is overseeing Syria’s attempts to destroy its stockpile of nerve agents, said that an unspecified amount of chemicals used in making weapons had also been destroyed within Syria. Syria has missed several deadlines to have its chemical weapons eradicated by June 30 but insists it will meet the final deadline.
He’s settled into the neighbourbood
by TARiq TAHiR between Obama and Beyoncé. He added: ‘I can assure you that the world will be talking about it.’ Beyoncé and her rapper husband Jay-Z have been friends with the Obamas for several years and she performed at Michelle Obama’s recent 50th birthday party. Washington Post spokeswoman Kris Coratti confirmed the paper had no information other than that they remained friends. She said the paper had received a number of calls. ‘It’s kind of crazy how fast these rumours spread,’ she added. Questioned last night about the Obama-Beyoncé claims, Mr Rostain admitted they were a ‘joke’. The story comes as French president François Hollande, who has actually been having an affair, travelled to the US to visit president Obama. Last week’s Hurley-Clinton ‘tryst’ was revealed to be fantasy when her former date Tom Sizemore admitted he’d made it up.
TWO men are believed to have become the first in Britain to die after taking part in the ‘Neknominate’ drinking craze. Stephen Brooks, 29, collapsed after being filmed downing a pint of what appeared to be vodka. Police are awaiting an autopsy result on the Cardiff man.
Arabian horse Nasar stands in front of the kitchen of its owner in Holt, Germany. The physician brought the horse into her house during a storm in December and Nasar has taken a liking to living indoors since picture: epa His death came shortly after Isaac Richardson collapsed after drinking wine, whiskey vodka and lager. The 20-year-old, a receptionist at a backpacker hostel in Woolwich, south London, was taken to hospital where he died in the early hours of Sunday. Neknominate involves
participants downing large amounts of alcohol in often bizarre places and posting a video on Facebook before nominating someone to continue the game. The game is believed to have taken the lives of two men in Ireland. Jonny Byrne, 19, from Leighlinbridge was playing the
game before jumping into the river near Milford Bridge, Co Carlow just over a week ago. His death came just a day after the body of Dublin DJ Ross Cummins, 22, was found by his housemates after it is believed he had downed a pint of whiskey during a Neknominate challenge.
12 MeTrO HerALd Tuesday, February 11, 2014
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The garth invaders will turn drumcondra into a dump
A
fter last friday’s front page about the uproar among residents over the five Garth Brooks gigs, and the glib letter from freelisteningclonliff yesterday, I felt compelled to write in. What about all the people who live in Drumcondra, but not on the streets immediately around the stadium who are therefore not entitled to any sort of compensation? residents committees will be silenced by free tickets and hospitality, but what about all the others who live in the area? they are still affected very badly by what is more than just an inconvenience. It’s bad enough when we get those bumper GAA weekends – but this is going to be far worse. Consider how locals can’t get public transport because the roads are blocked by drunks streaming across Drumcondra. Or that we can’t even get into the local shop because of the gangs of half-cut fans who are too drunk to understand the concept of queuing or not blocking the entrance. Ditto for the takeaways. Or that I can’t even hang clothes out to dry because the air is thick with the stink of hot dogs from dodgy stands that are probably only wheeled out of a shed somewhere for such occasions? this summer the street filthfest will last five days in a row. the
entire area of Drumcondra will be in lockdown as faux-cowboy-hatwearing yokels park outside our houses before getting hammered on cans and bottles (that are then thrown on the street) and staggering across our roads, braying like intoxicated donkeys until all hours of the morning, urinating wherever they please like untrained puppies, and generally leaving the area looking like a tip so that long after they have gone home the rats will hang around, eating their fill from the discarded fast food trays that nobody sees fit to put in the bin. Hold back the edges of your gowns, ladies, we are going through hell. The Tired Man ■ freelisteningclonliff, while I agree with you about the potential wider benefits of the series of gigs in Croke Park, I also think you’re being overly dismissive of the residents’ perspective. Specifically, many of the residents may well have lived in the vicinity for more than 20 years. Now, while this may seem like an arbitrary number, the first concert in Croke Park was 18 years ago, and the stadium was a different (less giant) beast entirely back then, so these residents would have had no reason to expect Croke Park to go from no concerts, to three some years to eight a year now. Nowherenearcrokerresident
mail@metroherald.ie Text: @metrohnews and Facebook: #metromailbox
Doe you come ’ere often? Reader Richardas Kybartas, who loves to take photos of wildlife, sent us this amazing picture of a pair of deer straying away from the herd, which he took in the Phoenix Park on Sunday ■ Dublin woman, I am in complete agreement with you. I recently had to see a consultant and found him very rude. My condition is not common and I had never heard of it before I was told I had it. I asked some questions, which he didn’t want to answer and as he left the room he turned back with the information, ‘By the way, you probably can’t have children because of this’ and walked off leaving me confused and upset. Emer ■ I support rory O’Neill’s contention that it is no longer reasonable to debate the question of whether the State should treat gay people differently. the referendum should be abandoned and the legislation tabled tomorrow. further debate lends an aura of respectability to the arguments of those who believe gay people should not be afforded equal rights. Last year, my partner and I formed a civil union in London, which several members of my family in Ireland did not attend. I was later told they disapproved of my homosexuality for moral and religious reasons. Any right-
yeH big ride
● Good on you to the Soon To Be Bald Barista with his fear of birds – he’s raising money for the Irish Cancer Society for this year’s Shave or Dye campaign. Check out his YouTube video – Priceless! What a man. Fair play. Garreth
● Scarlet for ‘shock jack’s’ whole family tree after reading ya big ride. @loushannigan
rAndOM AcTs Of kindness
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Quick pic
gOOd On yA
● Thanks to the witch doctor for sorting me out with one of her magic potions. I hope the clampers are kind and don’t clamp your broom again. Wilheim
‘Mail’ to 53131* Facebook.com/ metroherald
● To the curly-haired-ginger-nut, I’d love to dip you in my tea and spoon you, as you’re causing quiet a stirring. Saucer ● Hey shorty on the daily mid-day train from Greystones to Connolly station. They say all good things come in small packages, but can you deliver? Posty
yOur rusH-HOur crusH
thinking person would regard such behaviour as regrettable. David ■ re: that guy who was adrift on the Pacific for 13 months. Considering he survived by eating the odd bird and fish, doesn’t he look a little chubby? Brendan ■ I can’t tell you how relieved I am to hear that on-street fundraisers are to be regulated. these chugging gits – who fiendishly set themselves up in pairs, each on opposite sides of the road so you can’t cross over to avoid them – regularly ruin my lunchbreak with their unctuous cheer. Please, please, please make them sod off. Anne Elliot ■ With regard to your story about the unfortunate giraffe that met an untimely end in Copenhagen Zoo. It got me thinking, what is Dublin Zoo doing to protect our own beloved giraffes from the alarming neknomination craze that has taken hold recently – I suspect their anatomy makes them particularly vulnerable. We need answers now. Catherine Morland
EU cannot roll with Swiss vote ■ Anything less than a robust political and economic response to the Swiss vote ending free movement of European people will be a disaster for the EU. It will show the British and others that they can be outside the EU, reject the rules they don’t like but get all the benefits. The Swiss need a slap in the face and a look at what the harsh reality of being outside really means. Kevin Quinn
Send your photos to pictures@ metroherald.ie with ‘Quick pic’ as the subject and we will print the best each day in the paper
Trending Valentine’s Day is around the corner and Twitter is full of helpful ideas... ● Get her flowers and candy for Valentine’s Day to let her know that you’re just like every other unoriginal dumbass.
@TheMichaelRock
● Call off the search guys, Lidl just won Valentine’s Day...
@driscolltheque
● Chipper in Glasnevin offering romantic meals for Valentine’s Day. @dailyedge ● This Valentine’s day, do something special. Uninstall Candy Crush from your mobile.
@SirJadeja
● A surefire way to let everyone know you care about Valentine’s Day is to let everyone know you don’t care about it @HopeUdobi ● I don’t mean to alarm you, but the Sindo reports that Gerald Keane and Lisa Murphy will spend Valentine’s Day apart. That’s my week ruined.
@colettebrowne
@metrohnews #metromailbox
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Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
Ultimate Bond girl Lara Pulver enjoys playing strong women, but is keenly aware of body image pressure writes Keith Watson
T
he opening scene of Sky’s new TV drama, Fleming, zooms in on Lara Pulver, wearing a blood-red bikini while snorkelling amid shoals of exotic fish. There are lingering close-ups of her wiggling flippers, before she emerges breathless atop a speedboat, a gun-toting Dominic Cooper close behind. It’s a pure Bond moment, setting the scene for a dramatised version of author Ian Fleming’s life that cheekily blurs the line between fact and fiction. And it’s another striking physical moment for Pulver, who shot to fame as daring dominatrix Irene Adler in Sherlock, a woman capable of turning even the most cerebral sleuth to jelly. But she’s quick to point out the flesh in Fleming is more suggestive than full-on. ‘It’s glamorous and sexy,’ she says. ‘But I think you get the impression that you see more than you do. It’s the power of suggestion. That’s what intrigued me, because after Sherlock, I got
endless scripts where the only character trait was getting your kit off.’ There’s certainly more to Ann O’Neill, Pulver’s character in Fleming, than that. She was the 007 author’s third wife and the drama’s subtext is she was his soul mate – if that’s the right term for a pair of mutually destructive thrill-seekers drawn together by a love of danger. Pulver agrees that, initially, O’Neill is a tough character to warm to. She’s a manipulative siren-cum-socialite gliding through life on her charms, moving in the circles of Winston Churchill and Lord Rothermere. But Pulver was attracted by her survival instincts. ‘Ann lost her mother when she was young, she never had any formal education – there was a nanny who mistreated her – and so she’s never been familiar with love,’ she says. ‘She actually vomited the first time someone kissed her. She’s a complex picture.’ In Fleming, played with a knowing laddiness by Cooper, Pulver believes O’Neill found the ideal sparring partner. ‘They were forever frustrated by people failing to meet their expectations,’ she says. ‘They needed people to challenge them – and they challenged each other.’
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There was a dark side to their combustible relationship, revealed in a harrowing scene in the formative stages of their relationship, which hovers on the uneasy borderline between rough sex and rape. Pulver agrees it’s a tough scene to watch – as it was to film. ‘It starts with her cornering him and turns into a struggle for control, the thrill of the chase taking a sudden twist,’ she says. ‘He asks her: “Is this what you want?” And you’re not certain of the answer. It was the kind of
“In LA you’re being judged the minute you walk in the room” situation that powered their relationship. It’s a fine line in that scene but I think it works – we needed to show that element of danger in their relationship.’ There was danger back in that opening scene in the deep blue waters of the Mediterranean. ‘I’m really not a strong swimmer,’ Pulver recalls with a shudder.
Naked ambition: Pulver in Sherlock
Sealed with a kiss: Dominic Cooper and Lara Pulver in new TV series Fleming ‘And I hadn’t really taken on board how long and how deep I’d be in the water. But I was determined to do it – what you see is all me, trying to not look petrified. You never know what you can do until you challenge yourself to do it.’ No surprise, then, that Pulver is drawn to playing strong women. As well as Irene Adler and Ann O’Neill, she’s also returning soon as the scheming Clarice Orsini in the second series of Da Vinci’s Demons. She credits her mum and nan from her Essex childhood as instilling her with the survivor’s instinct. ‘They’re such strong women – and that’s what I look for in characters,’ she says. ‘But not just strength, something unconventional, too.’ There’s undoubtedly an unconventional side to the 33-year-old Pulver, too. The English actress lives in LA with her actor partner of two years, Raza Jaffrey – she
made the first move and asked the Smash and Mistresses actor out.
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IVEN her roles have left precious little to the imagination in terms of exposure, it’s no surprise Pulver is keenly aware of body image. She’s refreshingly candid on the pressures on actors to conform to body image stereotypes in order to make it big in Hollywood. ‘You know that in LA you’re being judged the minute you walk in the room,’ says Pulver. ‘And you see people killing themselves to look this way and that, having surgery so they look a certain way. But the crazy thing is you could transform yourself and then be wrong for the next role that comes along. And there’s no going back.’ It’s clear she has her eyes set on Hollywood and she has a part in new Tom Cruise movie
Somewhat lacking in inspiration THEATRE REVIEW BREATHLESS HHIII
In John MacKenna’s Breathless, four unnamed women who have been brutally murdered find themselves in a mysterious, purgatorial environment that looks remarkably like a squat. Are they in some sort of neglected anteroom to heaven? And for how long? As a set-up, it’s an intriguing one but there obviously isn’t much room for plot development – the characters are trapped in this suspended state, with nothing to do but trade tales of happier times, as well as their grim demises. There is a fleeting reference to Godot, which is unwise. Beckett this ain’t. Perhaps MacKenna is trying to do justice to his victims by giving the audience a sense of each woman’s individuality, a picture of each life before it was taken away – but, as theatre, this fails to convince. The characters are crudely drawn (there’s the posh one, the angry one, the teenage one and the older one), and much of their reminiscences fail to engage.
Edge Of Tomorrow, due for release in the summer. But she’s not getting suckered into the LA game. The surprisingly diminutive actress is a 5ft 3in three bundle of energy tucked on to the hotel sofa as she talks animatedly about the need for doing things the natural way. ‘I’m a real foodie,’ she says. ‘Raza and I love to cook. But you need to know what you can and can’t eat, there really needs to be better education about that. I think I could have been an athlete. I’ve always done sport and that’s the best way of staying in shape.’ She pauses for breath. ‘But what I’ve never understood is why people don’t have willpower.’ That’s something the disarmingly confident Pulver has in abundance. It should see her go far. Fleming starts on Sky Atlantic tomorrow at 9pm.
AbOuT TOWn EXHIBITION Don’t Break My Heart With Valentine’s Day looming, what better way to channel feelings of romance/ickiness – delete as appropriate – than by poring over the love letters of the hoi polloi? Following an invitation posted earlier this year, The Centre For Creative Practices has assembled dozens of cherished missives submitted by people from around the globe Until Mar 18, Centre For Creative Practices, 15 Pembroke Street Lower D2, Mon to Fri, noon to 7pm, free. Tel: (01) 799 5416 www.cfcp.ie.
FILM Lift To The Scaffold
All four actors put in good performances, doing their best with the material, particularly Ruth McCabe as the older, wiser woman who was abducted and murdered by a man she had turned down at a nightclub. But much of the dialogue she has to deliver is depressingly crude. David Butler’s set is quite successful – he deploys the
distressed-looking brick wall of Smock Alley’s Boys School stage to good effect. Otherwise, this is a purgatorial 90minutes for the audience as well as the characters. Sheena Davitt Until Sat, Smock Alley Theatre, 8 Lower Exchange Street, Temple Bar D8, 8pm, €12 to €15. Tel: (01) 677 0014. www.smockalley.com/theatre
French director Louis Malle’s classic 1958 film is a cleverly constructed thriller that helped pave the way for the 1960s New Wave movement. With Jeanne Moreau (pictured) and Maurice Ronet Until Thu, IFI, 6 Eustace Street D2, various time & prices. Tel: (01) 679 3477. www.ifi.ie
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Chloe Scott cooks tried and tested recipes to make the ultimate lamb shanks for Valentine’s Day
REciPE cHLOE’S ULTiMATE LAMB SHANkS REciPE Serves 2 2 lamb shanks ♦ 6 garlic cloves ♦ 2 onions ♦ 2 carrots, chopped ♦ 300ml white wine ♦ Approx 150ml water or beef, lamb, chicken or veg stock, enough to submerge shanks ♦ 1 orange’s juice and zest ♦ 1tsp fennel seeds ♦ 110g red lentils ♦ 1 sprig of thyme, leaves removed ♦ 1 sprig rosemary leaves, finely chopped ♦ Salt and pepper ♦ 50ml olive oil or butter ♦ 1 large handful dried apricots, finely chopped ♦ 1 handful of fresh coriander, finely chopped
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METHOD Step 1: Peel the onions and garlic and process roughly in a food processor with the rosemary and thyme (or chop very finely by hand). Heat the oven to 160C. Step 2: In a large, heavy-based casserole pot, heat the olive oil or butter over a medium heat on the hob. Season the lamb shanks generously with sea salt and pepper (I lovingly use lots of both but I’m aware this is depressingly seen as unhealthy nowadays). Sear the lamb shanks all over until they are golden. It will take about 5minutes. Remove and set the shanks aside.
ride rudely over the ‘aromatics’ and it’s too sugary for me. Nevertheless, texturally, the red lentil component marries well with the meat, sliding down the gullet comfortingly. Cooking time was about two hours. In his Orange Braised Lamb Shanks (bbc. co.uk), Hugh fearnley-Whittingstall includes zest and juice. As it’s the height of Seville orange and blood orange season, it works, letting the ruminant’s flavours shine. It’s a lovely february gesture. Hugh cooks his shanks for a similar time to the other recipes I’ve tested – one to two hours. But, for an exceptional meal, the meat should fall seductively from the bone and so far, the cooking times given have been too short. I’m seeking something low and slow.
Yotam Ottolenghi’s Lamb Shanks With Chickpeas, fennel And Apricots (theguardian.com) look promising. Chickpeas are added towards the end and it’s a long cook – four hours. The chickpeas are good in the end result but not as good as Nigella’s cheeky bijou lentils. I do love the sharpness of the apricots, which cut through the fat in Ottolenghi’s dish and the contrast of the cooling, earthy coriander against the full-flavoured lamb. Plus, the meat melts in your mouth – so four hours is a must. The slow cooking technique will give you ample opportunity to mesmerise your date with witty conversation. But, as with all stews, this is even better made in advance and reheated.
FOOD NEWS with Angharad Williams be 50 per cent off all wines. Book your table now at reservations@ clodaghmckenna.com Tel: (01) 212 2981.
LOVED UP Valentine’s Day will be one to remember at Clodagh’s Kitchen in Blackrock. This year you can enjoy a set menu along with a glass of bubbly and canapés, with prices starting at €45 per person. On the night there will also
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features@metroherald.ie
Shank you very much
f there is a single predetermined expectation for Valentine’s Day, it’s a supper of sorts. And as slowly braised lamb shanks are almost foolproof, with one shank neatly feeding one person and all the prep done well ahead of time, they are perfect for a romantic meal. But how do make the dish unforgettable? At first, I get preoccupied with the sheep breed and its age. But there’s a whole article, a book even, in itself on the subject of the provenance of your meat. In reality, any grass-fed Irish lamb will do. How you treat the ruminant after you bring it home from the butchers influences the character of your supper. There are two camps of thought on this one: those who use spices and herbs to enhance the flavour of the meat and those who leave the cloven hoofed one’s gamey meatiness to sing alone. In a Google search, the first recipe pinging up enthusiastically is Incredible Baked Lamb Shanks from jamieoliver.com. Oliver’s a chap in the opposing camp – this is unashamed simplicity. Stuffing the shanks with a pocket of rosemary and thyme butter, I wrap them in foil on a small bed of carrots and alliums. This one cooks for two and a half hours. The Mediterranean herbs are instantly gratifying and I find myself falling in love with the meat’s untainted purity. My only small moan is that I’m looking for a meal in one go and this seems rather like half a meal – the meat half. So I try Nigella’s Aromatic Lamb Shank stew from her book Nigella Bites (also on nigella.com). This one features red lentils plus a bundle of sticky aromatic promise. I brown the shanks, make a ‘mush’ of onion and garlic, sauté it – so far so good. But things take a wrong turn when I ‘stir in turmeric, ground ginger, chilli, cinnamon and nutmeg, adding honey, soy sauce and marsala.’ I’m sure those with a sweet-tooth would love it; alas, I find the honey and marsala
Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
DAWSON DINING Dawson Street welcomes a new addition to its vibrant nightlife in the form of the three floor Peruke & Periwig which opens this Valentine’s Day. Lunchtime fare will include a choice of dipped beef or salt beef served from midday. A full dinner menu will run on the first and second floor bars and lounges from 6pm until very late seven nights a week. Every Saturday and Sunday from noon a home cooked Sunday roast will be served with mash, roast spuds, fresh vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, gravy and freshly-made
horseradish sauce. Visit www. perukeandperiwig.com to find out more. CHOCS AWAY Chocaholics will love The Bluffer’s Guide to Chocolate this Valentine’s Day. From the bestselling Bluffer’s Guide series and written by expert and journalist Neil Davey, this is a book filled with fun facts about cocoa that can turn anyone into an expert on the world of chocolate. The Bluffer’s Guide to Chocolate is on sale now at €8.73.
Step 3: Turn the hob to low. Sauté the herbs and onion/garlic mix until soft, but don’t let them brown. Add the carrots and fennel seeds. Sauté for a minute or so. Now pour in the white wine and bring to a simmer. All to reduce for 5mins, then add the stock and return the shanks. Cover and bake in the oven for 3hrs 30min. Step 4: Remove the lid and add the red lentils. Leave the lid off – to let the juice reduce and thicken slightly – return to the oven for another 30min. But this time, the meat will be falling off the bone, almost spoonable. Step 5: Squeeze in the orange juice and mix in the zest. Taste the meat and sauce, adding salt and pepper to taste. Stir through most of the chopped apricots. Divide the shanks and sauce into two shallow serving bowls, sprinkle with a little coriander and garnish with the extra chopped apricots.
TREAT OF THE WEEk POPcHiPS This savoury snack – already a hit with our US cousins – arrived in Ireland recently and has been going down a treat in Metro Life HQ. They’re available nationwide in original, barbeque, salt and vinegar, and sour cream and onion flavours. Fans of the low calorie snack include Katy Perry (pictured), Ashton Kutcher and Heidi Klum and you can join them for a single serving bag (€1) or a share bag (€2.69).
16 METRO HERALD Tuesday, February 11, 2014
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Life television WHat i’m WatcHing John michie
coronation street
I made a lot of friends during my time on Coronation Street playing Karl Munro and I still love to watch the show. I think the Hayley exit story with Roy has been beautifully and unsentimentally played by Julie Hesmondhalgh and David Neilson (above). The writers have dealt with the emotive issue of Hayley taking her own life with great sensitivity.
Question time/this Week
reconciliation: mandela’s miracle tg4, 10.25pm Once branded a ‘terrorist’, Nelson Mandela who died in December at the age of 95 left behind a powerful legacy. This documentary explores the iconic figure, affectionately known as Madiba in his native South Africa, and his struggle against, and ultimate victory over, apartheid. Contributions come from former Anglican bishop Desmond Tutu, former South African president FW de Klerk and Clint Eastwood, on the set of Invictus, a historic drama chronicling the 1995 Rugby World Cup in the Rainbow Nation. Having spent 27 years in prison, Mandela went on to save his country from a bloody civil war by bringing together the oppressed and the oppressors in a spirit of reconciliation.
film of the day iron man, E4, 7.35pm
grey’s anatomy RtÉ2, 9pm the doctors of grey-Sloan memorial Hospital swap their surgical scrubs for tuxedos and evening gowns at a fundraising gala for the hospital in this 200th episode. However a rash promise by Jackson turns the event into a competition. meanwhile back at the hospital, Bailey’s patience is tested when she has to deal with a cancer patient, gene, who has run out of options and time and can’t seem to stop himself making sexist and racist comments.
The Avengers hadn’t even thought of beginning to assemble when this gamble of a superhero movie became a surprise hit. We say ‘gamble’ because a then still-not-that-long out of rehab Robert Downey Jr was, at that point, far from a safe box office bet in being cast as Tony Stark, the billionaire playboy genius with the dicky ticker and superhuman charisma levels. Here he is kidnapped by Bad Guy terrorists who want him to build them a super weapon, so he does – just not for them.
desperate houseWives
My guilty pleasure. I just love the antics of Bree Van de Kamp, played by Marcia Cross. She personifies the white picket fence of Americana, behind which lurks all sorts of deviant behaviour. Her costumes are a work of subtle genius that hide briefly glimpsed lingerie of a different style.
my favourite tv character
ireland’s animal a&e inside the animal mind BBc2, 9pm tv3, 7.30pm This week the show visits Dog’s Trust Centre in Dublin and the ISPCA centre in Longford, where dog behaviourist Brian Rosney works on dogs’ behavioural skills to prepare them for a new life in a new home. Meanwhile in Pete’s clinic, family cat Bella is brought in with a sore paw and over in Bairbre’s clinic a family of tortoises are in for a check-up.
Thursday is my favourite TV night as I get to indulge my other passion – politics. Question Time with David t) is an Dimbleby (right) e. absolute favourite. He is brilliant at enabling the audience to hold politicians to account, rarely allowing MPs to get away with the ng party line. Following seamlesslyy on is This Week with Andrew Neil – one of the most authoritative presenters of British politics. I love to see Alan Johnson and Michael Portillo’s left-versus-right tussle – British political commentary at its genteel best.
Chris Packham concludes his animal world trilogy with a closer look at some of the cleverest creatures he’s encountered. Packham swims with dolphins, watches a sneaky chimp wangle a banana from under the nose of one of her elders and helps to set up an elephant-bone graveyard to see how elephants react to the death of one of their own.
It has to be Basil Fawlty in Fawlty Towers. John Cleese (below) doesn’t play the comedy, he plays the truth and that’s what makes this character so endearing expos of the in its exposé British class system. Under the thumb of his wife, Sybil (Prunella Scales), he opens up a world of absurdity that has me in hysterics every time. Sharon Lougher Michie plays Guy Self in Holby City on Tuesdays on BBC1.
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tech&gaming ALsO OuT moRe new ReleAses Released alongside Fable Anniversary is Fable Trilogy (360). It includes the Fable update and the original versions of its two sequels, which haven’t changed in any way. Fable III is still a major disappointment but Fable II remains the highlight of the franchise so far, thanks to its expanded game world and added customisation options.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
editorial@metroherald.ie to advertise, call 01 7055010
A simply human experience
There are no other new retail releases this week, but there is the PS Vita Slim (€216, above). The new version of sony’s portable console is 20 per cent thinner and 15 per cent lighter than the original. It has a new micro Usb Type b port and 1Gb of internal storage memory. battery life lasts an hour longer (it now has six in total) but this comes at a cost: the slim uses a lower-quality lCD display instead of the original oleD. naruto Ultimate ninja storm 3: Full burst (360/PS3/ PC) is a solid fighting game (right) with a cast of more than 80 characters. The subtitle Full Burst indicates it’s only a minor upgrade of the original; if you already own that, this is more a special edition than a new game. octodad: dadliest Catch (PC) is billed as a sequel to the indie hit, although the unlikely premise is the same: play an octopus trying to hide his cephalopod origins from the wider world. Although not very different to the original, the game world is larger and the expanded story both funny and touching. rymdkapsel, out last year on mobile formats and the PS Vita, now has a PC release. The name is Swedish for ‘space capsule’; you have to build a space station and research four mysterious monoliths. DJ
Story retold: This anniversary edition of Peter Molyneux’s charming RPG updates the graphics – but flaws remain
THE Big RELEAsE
Fable anniversary (16) XboX 360 HHH✩✩
P
eter Molyneux is about as famous as one gets in video game developer terms, thanks to his work on the likes of god sim Populous, his promotion of new games and his apparently endless stream of ideas. While Molyneux has left Microsoft to work on a sequel to Populous, his action role-playing series Fable carries on regardless. Next year, new multiplayer game Fable Legends will be released. to
hold interest until then, Fable Anniversary is a HD remake of the first game from 2004. Initially released on the original Xbox, Fable features all Molyneux’s usual obsessions. there are the moral decisions, the chirpy humour, the apparently trivial personalisation options and a boundless ambition the game can never quite deliver on.Yet despite its flaws – the game is too short, and the combat and quests too simplistic – Fable is uniquely enjoyable. that’s because it actually tries to do those things other role-playing games pretend they’re about but never really are. You can lie, cheat and steal, get married and divorced, or just wander the game world
being nice to everyone. the Fable series encourages you to live a more rounded virtual life and while it gives you the freedom to do so, it also tracks your decisions. It even makes you look more attractive or demonic depending on your choices. this edition includes the content from the Lost Chapters expansion as well as a new interface, a modernised save system and improved graphics. None of this addresses the intrinsic shallowness of the gameplay but that’s never been Fable’s primary focus. Instead, it tries to offer a more human experience and in that sense it still has disappointingly few peers.
David Jenkins
lara gets another life Tomb raider: deFiniTive ediTion (18) XboX one/Ps4 HHHH✩ The 2013 reboot of Tomb Raider was widely viewed as a success. The solid third-person action game had great combat, a likeable lead character and impressive visuals, which in this new next-gen version are even better. In terms of gameplay and single-player content, this is identical to the game released last year, though it does include all the multiplayer downloadable content for free. The substantial changes
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are to the graphics, which showcase techniques to be used in the sequel. As a result, Lara Croft has a completely new 3D model with a more detailed face and better hair simulation – every strand is independently modelled. The lighting techniques have been improved and trees, foliage and clothing now move and sway realistically. However, the PS4 version runs at a consistently smoother frame rate than the Xbox One version. While not always noticeable, it’s the sort of detail fans of both formats are already obsessing over. Games can’t rely on smooth frame rates and great visuals
alone, of course, and Tomb Raider does have problems, mainly in its story and repetitive gameplay. Although the first couple of hours, featuring a vulnerable Lara, are expertly handled, she soon defaults to the kind of laconic killing machine you’ll find in your average video game. Other characters are even less interesting and with a lack of any actual tombraiding, Tomb Raider feels a little one-note by the end. It’s still an enjoyable experience, and a good foundation for further embellishment, but improving the graphics doesn’t really add to the adventure. DJ
Hanging on: Tomb Raider: Definitive Edition is the same game as last year’s franchise reboot – with improved graphics the only draw
18 METRO HERALD Tuesday, February 11, 2014
travel
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features@metroherald.ie to advertise, call 01 7055010
To the heights of Alpine cool W Verbier hotel is the most anticipated opening of the ski season. Lisa Scott takes a peek
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HE windy peak of Mont Fort is not an obvious place for a dance floor but it hasn’t taken long for my fellow snowboarders and skiers to create a party. We gulp back steaming vin chaud and
dance to mellow house music while taking in the astonishing views of the Alps. W Verbier, the W brand’s first Alpine outpost, is responsible for this impromptu fun. They sent a DJ loaded with equipment on four lifts to
IT’S AMAZING WHAT A FAMILY RESORT HOLIDAY CAN DO. Limited FREE Child Places available.
Wide-screen: Stepped seats and cushions under modern lighting give guests a fine view over Verbier’s slopes
thomsonholidays.ie 1850 45 35 45 Falcon Travel Shops or your Travel Agent FAMILY RESORTS. Designed for you. Only from Thomson is fully Licensed and bonded by CAR (TO 021). Offer subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.
the summit of the Verbier resort to entertain us. W hotels have a ‘whatever, whenever’ service – whatever you want, whenever you want it. We wanted a surprise on the mountain. We got a DJ set 3,330m in the sky. The hotel’s Miss Fix It, a 6ft 1in ex-model called Monica, recently organised a marriage proposal at the same spot. She travelled ahead with a local singer, chocolate fondue and champagne. The singer sang, the champagne was guzzled, the answer was yes and when the couple arrived back at the bottom, they were greeted with a giant banner saying ‘Congratulations’ while Monica waited in the sidelines with hot chocolate. If you’ve got the cash for such gestures, W aims to please. W Verbier – a little bit Swiss chalet, a little bit contemporary New York – opened two months ago with a party that involved fireworks and the staff flying down the piste on makeshift sledges. Sitting at 1,500m, the W Verbier’s design is as flamboyant as its management’s approach to parties. The hotel is divided into four buildings, each with a different purpose. Energy is home to the W Café and some of the 123 rooms; Infuse to the Mountain
Concierge for all things pisterelated; Recharge is where you’ll find the spa, bar and restaurants; and Escape holds more rooms, including the WOW suite and E WOW suite, which will set you back nearly €8,500 a night. Amsterdam-based architect Concrete is behind the design and, inspired by the sweep of a snowboarder’s carve in the snow, chose a curved motif that can be seen throughout. My room, which has its own fireplace, a huge balcony and curved, free-standing bath, has a carpet cut in a curve, revealing natural stone underneath. One side of the room is formed of earthy woods, timber and natural colours; the other is all polished plastics, bright colours and twinkling bauble lights. Taking a wander, I find a shiny arched tunnel, round cushions, sweeping seating areas and circular copper light fixtures. My favourite design element is the colourful masking-tape graffiti by Berlin-based street artist Buff Diss, who has created sweeps and bends using small strips of the sticky stuff throughout the hotel. Music and food is, of course, especially important for a brand that pitches itself as a hotel for the
cool kids. Michaelangelo L’Acqua, W Hotels’ global music director, spent months finding W Verbier’s resident DJ, a former actress and model (naturally) called Liz Mugler who has incredible postbox-red hair. She plays in the hotel’s three bars: the outdoor après-ski Off Piste bar, the hotel’s late night bar Carve and the chilled-out Living Room. Dining is as much of a delight as the boozing. In Restaurant Arola, double Michelin-starred Catalan Sergi Arola serves ‘pica pica’ dishes: lots of small plates inspired by Barcelona’s La Boqueria market. We feast on monkfish in a romesco sauce and pork cheeks stuffed with goat’s cheese, while the charismatic chef regales us with stories such as the time he posed naked (for artistic purposes, of course). Verbier, which has more than 400km of challenging runs and impressive mountain eating options, is no stranger to glamour. Regular faces in the resort include Richard Branson, Jude Law and Prince Harry, and it’s likely the W will bring more Americans and, eventually, Chinese to the resort. Local boy James Blunt even has a lift named after him and opened La Vache restaurant at the top of
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OOH-LA-LA! fivE MARMy spA TREATs fOR vALEnTinEs
In the vaulted basement of the luxury Spa Nuxe in central Paris, the Watsu massage is the ultimate in relaxation. You and your therapist don swimsuits before entering a small swimming pool heated to 35C, bathed in gentle coloured lights. You lie back into the arms of the therapist and let her take control as she swirls you gently in the water, stretching and folding your limbs, pressing acupressure points and massaging away worries. The weightlessness of being in the water (with a little help from floats strapped to your calves) is likened to feeling like a baby in the womb. €122, fr.nuxe.com/spas Legend has it that Cleopatra had a penchant for bathing in ass’s milk – now you too can feel the effects of this dairy delight. At Aquensis Spa in the Pyrenean town of Bagnères-de-Bigorre, you can soak in the local donkeys’ milk, which leaves your skin soft and supple. Relax in a warm bath
tub while a therapist pours in an urn of concentrated donkey’s milk. Jets froth up the water to create a thick, creamy foam. Then lay back and let the milk fizz work its magic. €48, aquensis.fr Quaffing red wine may give you a rosy glow but the award-winning Caudalie Vinothérapie spa in vineyards near Bordeaux uses the fruit of the vine in more original ways. The Gommage Crushed Cabernet body scrub, a mixture of grape pips, honey, brown sugar and essential oils, helps with slimming while the Pulpe Friction Massage exfoliates and hydrates the skin with fresh grapes. If these two don’t hit the mark, follow a three-day treatment programme that includes a red wine bath and a honey and Fleur de Vigne body wrap. €107, www.sources-caudalie.com The French have long enjoyed the benefits of sea water in their healthcare regimes – a technique known as thalassotherapy. One of the most wonderful places to enjoy it is at the Castel Clara hotel on the island of Belle-Île-en-Mer off the coast of Brittany. You can opt for treatments such as a massage using a pummelling tool made from seaweed and tea, or go for a five-day programme that includes marine mud baths, a seaweed wrap and being blasted with jets. €81, relaischateaux.com/castelclara
the Les Attelas chairlift with business partners Lawrence Dallaglio and Carl Fogarty last season. But with competition growing in other Swiss resorts – Andermatt has had billions pumped in by Egyptian billionaire Samih Sawiris – Verbier can’t afford to be standing still for long. For now, the W’s arrival has ensured it isn’t.
Lisa stayed at W Verbier (www.wverbier.com), doubles from €408 per night, including breakfast. www.verbier.com
Provocative: Restaurant Arola – where we were told tales of naked chefs
n Destination: Agadir, Morocco. Price: €334 per person. Details: Seven nights self-catering at the three-star Intouriste Apartments arriving Mar 1. Price includes flights, transfers, accomm., all taxes and charges, 20kg checked in bag and rep service. Contact: Sunway. Tel: (01) 231 1800. www.sunway.ie n Destination: Golden Sands Hotel Apts, Dubai Price: From €691 pp. Details: Price includes flights, transfers, seven nights accomm., all taxes and charges, 20kg checked in bag and rep Service. For travel Sep 1 to 30. Contact: Sunway. Tel: (01) 231 1800. www.sunway.ie
n Destination: Universal Resort Orlando New Cabana Bay Beach Resort. Price: From €624. Details: Price per person based on two adults and two children. Travel in June. Availability limited. Contact: Sunway. Tel: (01) 231 1800. www.sunway.ie. n Destination: Agadir, Morocco Price: €334 per person Details: Seven nights at three-star Intouriste Apts (self-catering). Arrive Mar 1. Contact: Tel (01) 231 1800. www.sunway.ie n Destination: Dubai Price: From €691 pp Details: Four nights at Golden Sands Hotel including flights, transfers, accomm., all
taxes and charges. Arrive Sep 1. Contact: Tel: (01) 231 1800 and quote ref: 50120. www.sunway.ie n Destination: Orlando Price: From €529 pp Details: Seven nights at three-star Rosen Inn Pointe incl flights, accomm, taxes, charges. Travelling Jun 11 Contact: Tour America. Tel: (01) 817 3500. www.touramerica.ie n Destination: New York Price: From €699 pp Details: Three nights at four-star Roosevelt Hotel including flights, accommodation, all taxes and charges. Travelling Jun 5 Contact: Tour America. Tel: (01) 817 3500 and quote ref 462037. www.touramerica.ie
fly to Canada and seize the summer.
ALsO OpEning in verbier
The unlikely grouping of chart crooner James Blunt with ex-rugby international Lawrence Dallaglio, superbike champion Carl Fogarty and restaurateur Rob Sawyer continues. Having opened the La Vache restaurant last season, they’ve added sister joint Cuckoo’s Nest (above) to their stable. Expect salade Fergie and tarte Fergie abricot – named after their aristo buddy. www.cuckoosnestverbier.com
The Bruson lift opened 20 minutes across the valley from Verbier last week. Bruson is a small resort and part of the 4 Valleys but it’s northfacing so it tends to get more snow. Cordée des Alpes is a four-star hotel owned by Australian-Swiss former ski champion Marcus Bratter, who owns the resort’s Farm Club. It is home to 32 rooms and suites, Moroccan-themed bathrooms and a pool. Doubles from €222. www.hotelcordee.com
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TRAvEL DEALs Of THE wEEk
fREncH spA iDEAs Using local cider apples as the inspiration for their signature treatments, the new B’O spa (pronounced ‘beau’) in Bagnoles-de-l’Orne, Normandy, offers a long list of unusual pampers. Apple pips contain high concentrations of antioxidants and polyphenols, which are ideal for banishing the effects of ageing. Its delicious massages and facials leave you smelling like a tarte Tatin. €75, www.bo-spathermal.com/en
Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
7 NIGHTS
a529 FOR UP TO 6 PERSONS T&C’s apply.
Fly non-stop from Dublin to Toronto, starting May 2, 2014. And enjoy the convenience of connecting flights to destinations all over Canada. Contact your travel agent, call us on 01 6793958 or book at aircanada.com
puzzles
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METROSCOPE by Patrick Arundell
NEMI by Lise
Aries Mar 21 – Apr 20
Not all tension is bad, it can be creative at times like today, when the motivation to get results buzzes because you’re keen to forge ahead. And whether you’re dealing with an organisation or a person, there comes a time when enough is enough. For your forecast, call 15609 114 70
Taurus Apr 21 – May 21
METROKU Easy, Moderate and Challenging. For solutions, visit Metro.co.uk/metroku
Should you opt for a radical solution or take the tried and trusted approach? An inner pressure to do something could cause you to act on impulse, whereas a novel solution that encompasses both ends of the spectrum might work out if you try. For your forecast, call 15609 114 71
Gemini May 22 – Jun 21
Researching your options could lead you on a liberating journey of discovery. Anything to help you escape feelings of world weariness has to be a good thing and could even spotlight further possibilities. Exploration can prove fruitful. For your forecast, call 15609 114 72
Cancer Jun 22 – Jul 23
The Moon in your sign can give you the emotional clout to assert yourself, or at least make someone aware of how you feel. As Venus continues onwards, this can be a positive opportunity to set the record straight. For your forecast, call 15609 114 73
Leo Jul 24 – Aug 23
Some polar energies can see you wondering whether to listen to your heart, go with the flow or switch your attention to something entirely different. The reasons for any confusion may be because you’re feeling a sense of limitation. A shift in perspective can help.
PEARLs BEFORE swINE
For your forecast, call 15609 114 74
Virgo Aug 24 – Sep 23
Is there something you don’t want your friends to know? Perhaps you feel guilty about not sharing this private matter. However, under the current climate, it’s probably best not to. This can be a case of the wrong words spoken at the wrong time.
ACROSS 6 Change (7) 7 Coach (5) 9 Merry (3) 10 Meritorious (9) 12 Make conform to a norm (11) 15 Careful (11) 17 Analysed minutely (9) 19 Rodent (3) 21 Cancel (5) 22 Lay down (7)
DOWN 1 Sum (5) 2 Day before (3) 3 Impel (4) 4 Prudent (9) 5 Treat as a celebrity (7) 8 Comment (6) 11 Is prominent (6,3) 13 Observe (6) 14 Wise (7) 16 Swift (5) 18 Always (4) 20 Enemy (3)
Yesterday’s Solutions Across: 7 Controversial; 8 Strangle; 9 Earn; 10 Behalf; 12 Impose; 14 Assume; 16 Troupe; 18 Lass; 20 Dilatory; 22 Inconsiderate. Down: 1 Fortress; 2 Strata; 3 Long; 4 Derelict; 5 Asleep; 6 Fair; 11 Fiendish; 13 Separate; 15 Upshot; 17 Outcry; 19 Aunt; 21 Lido.
For your forecast, call 15609 114 76
scorpio Oct 24 – Nov 22
Turning your hand to something creative may take your mind off stressful events. If you can immerse yourself in activities that give you pleasure and enrich your experience, even a trying situation can be seen in a different light. For your forecast, call 15609 114 77
sagittarius Nov 23 – Dec 21
If finances are showing an improvement, you might feel like splurging on a few small luxuries. However, try not to overshoot your budget on an entertainment plan that glitters with possibility, as it may not in reality. For your forecast, call 15609 114 78
Capricorn Dec 22 – Jan 20
Try not to over-commit. What may seem like a great idea could leave you feeling overwhelmed, while adopting an easier pace can allow you to enjoy yourself. You may still be making your mind up about a complex relationship issue. For your forecast, call 15609 114 79
Aquarius Jan 21 – Feb 19
There can be duties to attend to. The continuing tense square between the Sun and Saturn, may leave you feeling overburdened, yet this lays down a challenge that, if met well, suggests rewards. For your forecast, call 15609 114 80
Pisces Feb 20 – Mar 20
The Moon’s link with Jupiter offers the chance of reconciliation – if one is necessary. Despite any excitement the day has to offer, the chance to relax may seem doubly enticing. Enjoy some pampering too.
For your forecast, call 15609 114 81
For a live one-to-one consultation with one of my gifted psychics, call 15809 113 68 or 1800 719 688 to book using credit card Astrology calls cost 1.27 euros per min from a BT landline. Live Services cost 2.40 euros per minute. Calls from mobiles/other networks may cost more. Callers must be 18 or over to use this service and have the bill payers permission. For entertainment purposes only. All calls are recorded. PhonePayPlus regulated(ComReg in ROI) UK SP: StreamLive Ltd, NR7 0HR, 08700 234 567. ROI SP:Moveda, 1 Courtyard Business Park, Orchard Lane, Blackrock, Co Dublin, 0818 241 398
QuIz
Crossword No.911 See next edition for solutions
– Oct 23
Though today’s TSquare could coincide with strained circumstances, you may be able to swing things your way with a little charm. Current influences can incite arguments and it may not take much for this to happen.
ENIGMA Trophy you win when you lose; Kitchen implement you use to stir your soup out of the can when you don’t want to scratch the pan. WHO AM I? A member of the British royal family, I was born in Oxford in 1965. I met my future husband to discuss a Real Tennis charity event in 1993. I married Prince Edward in June 1999.
WHO, WHAT, WHERE & WHEN? WHO… in Irish mythology brought Oisín away on a white horse to Tír na nÓg? WHAT... car firm’s name means ‘people’s car’? WHERE... was Benjamin Franklin US ambassador between 1776-85? WHEN... did Éamon de Valera, former president of Ireland, die?
QUIZ ANSWERS: ENIGMA: Wooden spoon. WHO AM I? The Countess of Wessex. WHO, WHAT, WHERE & WHEN? Niamh of the Golden Hair; Volkswagen; France; 1975.
QUICK CROsswORd
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Libra Sep 24
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20 METRO HERALD Tuesday, February 11, 2014
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winter olympics
picture: ap
RiEscH cAN sHiNE gOLD ONcE AgAiN Maria Hoefl-riesch won her second successive Winter olympics gold medal in the super combined after producing a stellar run in the slalom at rosa Khutor alpine Center. The German, who carried the flag for her country at the opening ceremony, found herself in fifth after the downhill, 1.04secs behind american Julia Mancuso. But Hoefl-riesch (pictured) underlined why she is thought of by many as the finest skiing allrounder, with a blistering run in the slalom that sealed top spot. elsewhere, Canada’s Charles Hamelin won the third gold of his career in the 1,500m short track speed skating, while Martin fourcade of france claimed the 12.5km biathlon pursuit title.
O’connor on song as he lives out his sochi dream by pHiLip ROTHwELL
THE crowd roared their approval as Ireland’s Seamus O’Connor swept to the finish of his run in the Olympic slopestyle heat, but thanks to the music booming in his earphones, he heard little of their acclaim. For O’Connor, at 16 the youngest competitor in slopestyle and second-youngest in today’s halfpipe contest, the music is almost as essential as the board he rides. ‘If I forgot my headphones I’d be really upset,’ he said in an interview just outside the Olympic Village. ‘It would definitely change my performance if I didn’t have my music.’ Asked to share his playlist, the San Diego-born snowboarder said that might be embarrassing. ‘Put a little bit of the Dubliners
in there – the Irish heritage – to get the run going. Then maybe some Ke$ha to get the body going.’ Does he have a favourite genre when loading music before a run? ‘Anything that gets me excited – electronic, dance, rap, hip-hop, anything that gets me in the zone.’
Skating striptease is zipped in the bud RUSSIAN speed skater Olga Graf landed a surprise bronze medal in Sochi yesterday – and then nearly stripped off for fans. The 30-year-old came third in the women’s 3,000metres long track speed skating and promptly unzipped her skintight suit, not realising she had nothing on underneath. Fans and TV viewers worldwide had a glimpse of Graf’s bare torso as she just about avoided a complete strip show. She later said: ‘I totally forgot [I had nothing on underneath]. We have very good suits and they are very tight. You just want to breathe and take off your suit. Only afterwards did I realise that maybe this video will appear on YouTube. But I don’t think it will be so bad.’
Kid rock: Seamus O’Connor uses music to get ‘in the zone’ while on the slopes O’Connor’s eclectic taste in music is echoed by his fellow riders. ‘We all have our unique tastes. Some heavy rock has definitely been of influence in snowboarding culture back in the day, and now it’s hip-hop and rap. A lot of riders like to listen to that sort of stuff.’
ODDbALLs @MetroHSport
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Grin and bare it: Graf
But though O’Connor, whose father was born to Irish parents in Birmingham, missed the Olympic final in slopestyle, he says particpating at the Sochi games and representing his grandparents’ homeland was a dream come true. ‘When Sochi first got the bid for the 2014 games, my dad got this idea that I was to ride for Ireland in my mom’s homeland, and it came together perfectly.’ A fluent Russian speaker thanks to his mother, O’Connor is enjoying his time but says that when he looks at the rest of the field, it’s tough to be among the youngest. However, with youth on his side, he is adamant Sochi won’t be his last Olympic Games. ‘After this I’m going to take a bit of a breather but after a little while I’m going to have my sights set on 2018 and work towards that.’
Torr! He’s a real bit of alright LOVE could be in the air again in the Olympic Village after snowboarder Rebecca Torr admitted she is out to snare a Jamaican bobsledder. Hot on the heels of Russian rider Alexey Sobolev daubing his phone number on his helmet to attract partners, Torr took to dating app Tinder and tweeted: ‘It seems so far that not many Olympians use tinder… Just wanna match with the Jamaican bobsled team.’ However, the New Zealander has since denied she was serious, claiming only Kiwis get the joke.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD
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spORT DigEsT McIlroy aiming to follow Mickelson’s Open double act gOLf Rory McIlroy is aiming to follow in Phil Mickelson’s footsteps after confirming his return to the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open following a fiveyear absence. Mickelson won the event at Castle Stuart last year before going on to triumph in the Open at Muirfield seven days later and McIlroy believes the 2014 event at Royal Aberdeen is perfect preparation for the following week’s major at Hoylake. McIlroy, whose previous Scottish Open experiences came at Loch Lomond, said: ‘I can think of no better preparation for the Open, especially on a respected course like Royal Aberdeen. Phil winning the double last year made me realise that the Scottish Open is more than good preparation for the Open – he showed it was possible to win both weeks. You can play as much golf on links courses as you want, but until that’s in a competitive environment you can never tell how ready your game will be. It really is so important to get some competitive golf on a true, challenging links.’
Test ambition: Morgan
Eoin pulls out of IPL to hunt KP spot cRickET Eoin Morgan will play no
part in this year’s Indian Premier League as he looks to stake a claim to replace Kevin Pietersen in England’s Test team. Dubliner Morgan announced on Twitter he had pulled out of this year’s IPL auction, having played for Kolkata Knight Riders and Bangalore Royal Challengers in the past. While Pietersen is free to go to the highest bidder tomorrow, Morgan is no longer in the mix. He tweeted: ‘I would like to thank @IPL for accepting my request to withdraw from this year’s auction. Good luck with the tournament.’ Morgan’s last Test was in early 2012, when England suffered a 3-0 series defeat by Pakistan.
NFL draft prospect reveals he is gay NfL America’s most popular pro sports
league could soon have its first openly gay player. Michael Sam, a defensive star from the University of Missouri, came out on Sunday night and could soon become the first active openly gay player in any of North America’s four main pro sports leagues. ‘I just want to go to the team who drafts me,’ Sam told ESPN, ‘because that team knows about me, knows I’m gay, and also knows I work hard. That’s the team I want to go to.’
22 METRO HERALD tuesday, February 11, 2014
rugby
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FOOTBALL DigEsT Fulham have given us belief, says Pepe West Brom coach Pepe Mel admits his players will take inspiration from Fulham’s surprise 2-2 draw at Manchester United on sunday when they take on Chelsea tonight. Mel said: ‘that was a good result for Fulham. It was important for us to watch that game, so why not us?’ the 50-year-old (pictured) is still attempting to implement a greater degree of flowing football, which he is convinced is necessary for the club to beat the drop. Asked as to how tough the situation is for him right now, Mel said: ‘Football is a big game. today it’s white, tomorrow it’s black. For me it is very important for my players that they think it is possible to win. Hard work will help us manage that.’
3 Match ban facing Craig
Bellamy if he accepts an FA charge of violent conduct resulting from a clash with Swansea’s Jonathan de Guzman
Hammers iron out deal for Upton Park West Ham have agreed a deal to sell Upton Park to a developer once the club have completed their move to the Olympic stadium in 2016. the Galliard Group has been named as the successful bidder for the site, with West Ham saying they had chosen a developer with close links to the community. Hammers vice-chairman Karren Brady said: ‘We can see that Galliard are passionate about working with West Ham United to engage their supporters to help deliver a fitting legacy that will honour the tradition of the famous ground.’
Striker crisis gives Phil fourth fears PHIl JAGIelKA admits everton’s lack of striking options could cost Roberto Martinez’s side a Champions league place. the toffees slipped to sixth in the Premier league after sunday’s 1-0 defeat at nearest rivals tottenham, which leaves them five points adrift of fourth-placed liverpool. With on-loan striker Romelu lukaku sidelined by an ankle injury, lacina traore (pictured) still coming up to speed since his arrival in January and Nikica Jelavic now at Hull, everton boss Roberto Martinez was forced to play Kevin Mirallas up front. Jagielka said: ‘We’re struggling a little bit at the moment. It’s difficult because although we played some good stuff, we were perhaps missing that fox in the box or target man to get us the goals we need. It’s frustrating.’
Fly-half: New Aer Lingus ambassador Johnny Sexton kicked off a special offer of up to 20 per cent off fares on selected European routes booked before Sunday, February 16 for travel from May 1 to June 30. For more information visit www.aerlingus.com picture: inpho
‘Munster gig would be a dream for my mate Rog’
Taking over at Munster might be Ronan O’gara’s ‘ideal job’ but Jonathan Sexton hopes the former ireland out-half remains with him at Racing Metro next season. The pair have become close confidantes since both moved to Paris last summer, Sexton on a big-money three-year deal and O’gara to begin his coaching career, and the former Leinster star admits it would be a huge personal loss if O’gara was marked out as part of the team to replace the departing Rob Penney. ‘i could really stir it up and say it’s a done deal, but i honestly don’t know,’ Sexton joked yesterday. ‘i think his contract is one year with the option of one, so potentially he could [go]. i haven’t spoken to him and he hasn’t let me know he’s leaving or anything like that.
by gARETH MAkiM ‘i know from speaking to him that he would love to coach Munster at some stage, that would be his ideal job. That’s the job he’s probably got into coaching for, but when or if he gets it isn’t up to me or him, it’s up to other people. ‘From my point of view i hope he’s in Paris next year. He is still very important to me over there. it would be a big loss for me personally and for the club, in terms of the kicking side but also in terms of having him there as a mate.’ Sexton is still settling in at Racing, who are in the midst of a rocky first season under the new
coaching team led by Laurent Labit and Laurent Travers, and it has provided a major shift in perspective compared to previous years at perennial winners Leinster. ‘You would always like everything to be perfect,’ the 28-year-old said. ‘Sometimes you just have to accept that it is not going to be although it is hard when you are used to winning more often than not. ‘in the Heineken Cup over the last five or six seasons with Leinster i maybe lost five or six games and i have probably lost that many this season for Racing in Europe, so it is worlds apart, but that is the big challenge in front of everyone at the club, to turn the club into one of the big
‘Munster’s the job he got into coaching for’
clubs in France and in Europe.’ a born and bred Leinster fan, one might think it would now be easier to deal with the inevitable disappointments of top-level sport, but it hasn’t worked out that way for the intensely competitive Sexton. ‘i thought that defeats wouldn’t affect me as much over there because defeats were in a way quite personal with Leinster when you lost. it was strange, you would beat yourself up for a while over bad performances or defeats. ‘i thought one of the advantages of going away was i would very much just concentrate on myself, do all i could do and be happy, but i suppose you get into the environment and it doesn’t work like that. ‘You want the same things. it is just the way you are built.’
treviso to exit celtic league English respect to vanish ItalIan club Benetton treviso have decided not to compete in the RaboDirect Pro12 next season, citing the uncertainty of the tournament. the club joined the three Celtic league countries in 2009 and their participation agreement ends this summer. Benetton could join a competition which is expected to be set up by the
Italian Rugby Federation which will involve an eight-team league in the country. a statement from the club read: ‘Benetton Rugby from now on declares itself available to consider, and eventually participate, in future tournaments or games that the Italian Rugby Federation wishes to propose, once the RaboDirect Pro12 competition is defined.’
EngLand number eight Billy Vunipola respects ireland greats Brian O’driscoll and Paul O’Connell, but that admiration will disappear at Twickenham. The trio will lock horns a week on Saturday when the unbeaten irish put their grand Slam dream on the line against Stuart Lancaster’s men. However, reputations will mean little to
Vunipola once they’ve crossed that white line. ‘it’s a massive honour to play against them,’ said the 21year-old England back row. ‘But there’s only so much respect you can give them, because once you’re on the pitch you’re trying to win. ‘ireland are a great team and they’re unbeaten but hopefully we can be the ones to beat them.’
football premier league
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Tuesday, February 11, 2014 METRO HERALD 23
Dan gets Burn-ed after United ‘Conference’ jibe by JAMEs BOYLAn
picture: reuters
YOung Fulham star Dan Burn insists he did not mean to insult Manchester united by likening them to a Conference team. The 6ft 6in former Darlington player was superb on Sunday as he and his fellow Fulham defenders dealt with 81 crosses in a famous 2-2 draw at Old Trafford. united’s reliance on the tactic has been heavily criticised, and Burn (pictured) also appeared to be deriding David Moyes’ gameplan when he said: ‘I was just saying to the lads that I’ve
‘It was not meant to sound disrespectful’ never headed that many balls since the Conference! ‘I’m happy for them to play like that. We knew we were going to defend our box well.’ However, the 21-year-old was later forced to clarify his comments insisting they were not meant to be interpreted as disparaging. He said: ‘I didn’t mean that quote to sound as disrespectful as it’s been reported. There were a lot of crosses, statistically more than any game since [Opta] stats started, so I just joked that I hadn’t headed as many balls since the Conference. ‘It was a deluge of pressure, and I was just glad I could get on the end of some of them and we were all relieved to get a point. ‘united have world-class players, and we’re up against more world-class players, and arguably the best striker in the league [Liverpool’s Luis Suarez] tomorrow night.’
DaVID GInOLa says Manchester united are highly unlikely to qualify for the Champions League and should write off this season, writes Matthew Nash. the reigning Premier League champions slipped nine points off the top four with Sunday’s dismal draw against rock-bottom Fulham at Old trafford. and David Moyes’ men now face the very real possibility of missing out on a spot in Europe’s premier club competition. Former tottenham and newcastle winger Ginola, 47, believes this campaign should merely serve as preparation for 2014-15, which could define Moyes’ reign. He said: ‘the only thing that matters for Moyes is to build for the future. He has to forget this season and prepare for next season.
Patience: Moyes should already be planning for next season, says Ginola
nO UnREsT HERE, insisTs MATA
Juan Mata has dismissed talk of dressing-room problems at Manchester united as the champions look to put Sunday’s embarrassing draw with Fulham behind them and bounce back at arsenal tomorrow night. Questions have been raised about united’s spirit
but Mata (pictured) claims he has discovered a happy squad since arriving from Chelsea. ‘I feel a great atmosphere in the dressing room,’ he said. ‘I hope we can show that at arsenal. Honestly, I think football is being cruel with us. It seems luck is not on our side.’
‘If united want some stability, they have to be patient. this season is too early for them to do anything, next season is the most important for Moyes. Obviously it will be better for him if they make the top four but that’s probably not going to happen now and Moyes needs to make some changes. united are a club in a transition phase.’ Ginola, though, thinks united could cause a shock in Europe this term, adding: ‘they are underdogs in this season’s Champions League and who knows? they can create a surprise.’ David Ginola was speaking on behalf of BT Sport
We’re not ready to win the title yet, insists Reds boss Rodgers
Gunners needs a big Per-formance DefenDeR Per Mertesacker has challenged his team-mates to show pride in wearing the Arsenal shirt by responding to their 5-1 Anfield horror show with a matchwinning outing tomorrow against Manchester United. He said: ‘Our performance ... was just not good enough to compete at that level. We have the opportunity to respond quickly. [We must] show that responsibility for ourselves and for the pride of our club.’
Moyes must four-get this term, says Ginola
Playing it cool: Rodgers
LIVERPOOL manager Brendan Rodgers admits he has titles in his sights – but is adamant top spot is beyond the Reds this season. The thumping 5-1 victory over Arsenal on Saturday leaves the Reds just six points behind new leaders Chelsea but the Reds boss refuses publicly to consider a charge for a first title since 1990 – this season at least. ‘I came here to challenge for
titles, so there is no limit on our ambitions,’ he said. ‘I came to this great club hopefully to be here for
14 Points from a possible 18 in the league so far for Liverpool this year
a number of years in order to bring back the success and continue on some of the great
work the likes of Kenny [Dalglish] was doing before I arrived. ‘The momentum has been building but I just think it’s unprecedented to go from being seventh position [to first]. ‘I think it’s something that might be too much for us this season. But that doesn’t stop us fighting or wanting to be the best we can be, and at some point in my time here we will be ready.’
SPORT
24 METRO HERALD Tuesday, February 11, 2014
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Fancy Dan head of the class after United ‘Conference’ style jibe
«see page 23
Yaya escape a no-no as Jose ups City heat
YaYa TOuRe escaped a three-match ban for violent conduct yesterday – a decision which will enrage Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, who had earlier said the english Fa should suspend the Manchester City star. a three-man panel could not reach a unanimous decision that Toure’s kick on Norwich’s Ricky van Wolfswinkel during Saturday’s goalless draw at Carrow Road was an act of violent conduct. Mourinho had claimed the Fa would be letting football down if Toure wasn’t banned. ‘If he is not suspended the message is clear – you can do what you want,’ said Mourinho before the decision was announced. ‘If the Fa defends football he has to be suspended. If he is let off it must be the same for everyone – if the referee doesn’t see it I can do what I want.’ Mourinho also hit back at City boss Manuel Pellegrini, who insisted it was absurd for the Portuguese to claim Chelsea were the ‘little horses’ of the title race in terms of spending power. ‘We are building a team for the next decade, City have a team to win now. They have experience, potential, power and no worries about Financial Fair Play, because in summer they just spend. We don’t need a calculator for this.’
One goal: The US women’s ice hockey team gathers for a huddle prior to their preliminary round game against Switzerland at the Winter Olympics in Sochi. The Americans won 9-0 Picture: reuters
Sexton desperate for Crowning glory at last IrELAnD head to Twickenham next week in search of a Triple Crown, with Jonathan Sexton eager to finally get his hands on a trophy he assumed he would already have in the bag five years into his international career. The ‘golden generation’ of Irish talent claimed four Triple Crowns in the six seasons leading up to 2009’s Grand Slam triumph, leading out-half Sexton to believe more Irish success was a near certainty when he made his breakthrough the following season. Having beaten England and Wales, Ireland’s 2010 squad did indeed look set to complete the set once again until unfancied Scotland spoiled the party with a stunning 23-20 victory in the final Six nations game at Croke Park. Ireland haven’t come within one game of silverware since, leaving Sexton and a host of decorated provincial stars starved of international glory and eager to end a five-year wait Monthly Certified Distribution Oct 28 - Nov 24, 2013: 60,208
by gARETH MAkiM following wins over Scotland and Wales. ‘I thought it was easy in my first season – straight in – we beat South Africa and won the first two games in the Six nations. We were playing Scotland for a Triple Crown. ‘I just thought it was going to be the first of many, just take on from the generation [before]. It just hasn’t worked out like that for numerous reasons. ‘It would be great to win a piece of silverware and the Triple Crown is one, I suppose, in a weird way. ‘I remember that Scotland game. It was almost like the Triple Crown wasn’t the big deal because the guys had just come off the back of four Triple Crowns in a short space of time. ‘It wasn’t a big deal. now, it would be huge after the last few seasons that we’ve had. ‘I took it for granted. Looking back, I would
have loved it. I haven’t won one. It would be fantastic to do it. It would be another stepping stone to potentially winning the Championship. ‘You can’t do either of them without beating England at Twickenham.’ Despite losing their opening game in France, derailing Ireland’s Grand Slam bid would put Stuart Lancaster’s men right back in the Championship frame but Sexton (pictured) believes Ireland’s current mixture of youth and experience has what it takes to emerge triumphant from the red rose’s London fortress. ‘I hope so. [We’ve] a good mixture anyway. It’s got a few of the really experienced guys that have won the Grand Slam, won in England, won Triple Crowns.
Published by Fortunegreen Ltd, 1st Floor, Independent House, 27-32 Talbot Street, Dublin 1 Printed by The Irish Times at Citywest in Dublin Editorial: (01) 705 5088 Advertising: (01) 705 5077 Distribution: (01) 705 5007
‘Obviously, the other guys underneath have been in the middle, they were on the outskirts of that Grand Slam winning team. They would have learned a lot from then, but haven’t really achieved success. We’re hoping to take that next step. ‘Going to Twickenham, the last three times we’ve played them, they’ve beaten us. That says a lot. We’ll be up against it in Twickenham. It will be a big challenge for us.’ Sexton flew back to Paris last night and could feature in this weekend’s Top 14 clash against Bayonne, while several other members of the Irish squad could be released to play for their provinces in the Pro12. Dan Tuohy will be out of action for some time, however, after it was confirmed the Ulster lock had suffered a fractured right arm during his cameo as a substitute against Wales.
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