SAN DIEGO (AP) — Syracuse coach Fran Brown and Washington State acting coach Pete Kaligis shared a heartfelt hug after their Holiday Bowl news conference on Thursday. Kaligis can certainly use all the support he can get, especially an embrace and some encouraging words from the opposing coach. No. 22 Syracuse (9-3, No. 21 CFP), led by national passing leader Kyle McCord, is a 17-point favorite according to BetMGM in Friday night's Holiday Bowl against the depleted Cougars (8-4), whose season has nosedived since mid-November. After beating future Pac-12 opponent San Diego State 29-26 on Oct. 26 at Snapdragon Stadium, coach Jake Dickert, quarterback John Mateer and the rest of the Cougars were 7-1 and about to jump into The Associated Press Top 25. Now the Cougars are barely recognizable as they return to Snapdragon. Dickert was hired away by Wake Forest, Mateer transferred to Oklahoma and running back Wayshawn Parker left for Utah. Numerous coaches, including the offensive and defensive coordinators, are gone, and more than 20 players have entered the transfer portal. The Cougars, who lost their last three games, are a prime example of how college football's rapidly changing landscape can dramatically affect a program. “Going into the ins-and-outs of the game tomorrow doesn’t matter,” Kaligis said. “We are who we are, we have what we have. I know that’s for both of us.” Kaligis said players who entered the portal after Dickert left can suit up Friday night. “I know we came here with 98 guys. That's who we’re going to show up on the field with.” Kaligis said relationships between players and coaches are more important than ever, even if there's less time to develop trust “and coach them the right way.” “When a staff (member) leaves and guys get in the portal, it’s because of the relationships they have garnered with their position coaches. When that position coach isn’t guaranteed he’s going to be there, that’s who that young man trusts,” Kaligis said. “I’ve been doing this for a long time," he added. "What’s been hard for me, I spent 13 years at Wyoming, I saw three graduating classes. I remember I was the longest-tenured coach there. To see them all the way through. When I came to Wazzu, I was their fourth D-line coach." The Cougs improved to 8-1 by beating Utah State 49-28 on Nov. 9 but then lost three straight, including to Oregon State in the de facto championship game between the two teams left in the Pac-12. They also lost to New Mexico and Wyoming, two of the Mountain West teams that weren't invited to join the reconstituted Pac-12 starting in 2026. McCord, who transferred from Ohio State, rewrote the Orange's record book this season with 4,326 yards passing, 29 touchdowns and 367 completions. He's well within range of breaking Deshaun Watson's ACC single-season record of 4,593, which he set in 15 games in 2016. A win will give Syracuse 10 wins for the first time since 2018 and just the third time since 2000. Brown can become the second Syracuse coach since World War II to record 10 wins in his first season, joining Paul Pasqualoni, who did it in 1991. In their final regular-season game, the Orange rallied from a 21-0 deficit for a 42-38 win against then-No. 6 Miami that knocked the Hurricanes out of ACC title contention and ended their College Football Playoff hopes. McCord threw for 380 yards and three touchdowns. “We want to go out and have a good game,” Brown said. “We have an opportunity of winning 10 games, which means you’re starting to become a successful program, right? Our players haven’t had a chance of winning a bowl game. So there’s a lot of things that are on the line for us to really be able to build our program and being able to move forward.” This will be the teams' second meeting. Syracuse beat Washington State 52-25 in 1979. Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here . AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football

Israel strikes Houthi rebels in Yemen's capital while the WHO chief says he was meters away

England vs Japan live stream: How to watch 2024 Autumn Internationals rugbyThe company opens international research contest to strengthen technology leadership; open for entries until January 31, 2025 Selected researchers to receive annual research funding of up to USD 150,000 annually BIC program revamped to enhance two-way collaboration between industry and academia SEOUL, South Korea , Dec. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220) has announced its launch of the 'Battery Innovation Contest (BIC) 2025' to identify and support the next groundbreaking battery technologies. Innovators from universities and research institutions worldwide are encouraged to submit proposals until January 31, 2025 , at https://bridge.lgensol.com/ . Since its inaugural competition in 2017, BIC has been LG Energy Solution's flagship research contest. This year's edition has been revamped to foster greater collaboration between academia and industry. Selected researchers will receive annual research funding of up to USD 150,000 annually. Additional funding may be granted to projects making significant achievements through extended contracts. Maximizing Industry–Academia Benefits through Two-way Communication Unlike previous iterations of the competition, 'BIC 2025' allows participants to submit proposals on specific topics pre-announced by LG Energy Solution. "By presenting specific research optics, we aim to go beyond merely supporting academia and maximize the mutual benefits between the industry and academia," said an LG Energy Solution spokesperson. To facilitate active collaboration, LG Energy Solution has introduced the ' BRIDGE ' system, a platform designed to manage open innovation programs like BIC. The system facilitates seamless collaborations with features that help teams working on joint research projects track their objectives and deliverables. LG Energy Solution has unveiled the preselected 18 research topics for collaborative projects on the ' BRIDGE ' platform, such Battery Safety diagnosis algorithm technology and New materials for LFP Batteries topic. At the same time, the contest retains its traditional format to ensure participants are free to propose completely original research ideas. All research proposals must be submitted through the ' BRIDGE ' system. "Providing Differentiated Customer Value via Enhanced Technology Leadership" To protect the original ideas of every participant, LG Energy Solution has split the application process into two stages: initial proposals that provide concise information, followed by detailed proposals from a shortlist of candidates. This change aims to safeguard the ideas of researchers not selected for funding. "The BIC platform serves as a bridge of wisdom between members of academia and industry, driving technological innovation for the all-important battery sector," said Je-Young Kim , CTO of LG Energy Solution. "Through this initiative, we aim to provide differentiated value to our customers by strengthening our technology leadership." As of today, LG Energy Solution has supported 26 battery research projects through the 'BIC' initiative, with some evolving into large-scale projects that have received additional funding and resources. Thanks to the success of this competition, the company continues to establish partnerships with world-leading universities and research institutions, reinforcing its commitment to preparing the battery field for the future. About LG Energy Solution LG Energy Solution (KRX: 373220), a split-off from LG Chem, is a leading global manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles, mobility, IT, and energy storage systems. With 30 years of experience in revolutionary battery technology and extensive research and development (R&D), the company is the top battery-related patent holder in the world with over 58,000 patents. Its robust global network, which spans North America, Europe, and Asia , includes battery manufacturing facilities established through joint ventures with major automakers. Committed to building sustainable battery ecosystem, LG Energy Solution aims to achieve carbon neutrality across its value chain by 2050, while embodying the value of shared growth and promoting diverse and inclusive corporate culture. To learn more about LG Energy Solution's ideas and innovations, visit https://news.lgensol.com . View original content: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/lg-energy-solution-hosts-battery-innovation-contest-bic-2025-to-foster-breakthrough-battery-technologies-302339134.html SOURCE LG Energy SolutionPanthers rookie tight end Ja'Tavion Sanders released from hospital after suffering neck injury

Stock market today: Wall Street edges back from its records as bitcoin briefly pops above $100,000SM approaches 2025 with cautious optimism

Liverpool have a psychological advantage in the title race and can truly stake their claim as favourites by capitalising on their rivals' weaknesses over the coming weeks in the Premier League , Reds expert David Lynch has argued. Following Manchester City 's devastating 4-0 loss against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday , Arne Slot 's Merseysiders have the chance to extend their lead over the champions to eight points when they face Southampton at St Mary's stadium on Sunday . Victory would also see the Reds go nine points ahead of Arsenal , who beat Nottingham Forest 3-0 on Saturday afternoon. Liverpool are set to host Pep Guardiola 's side at Anfield on December 1, and Lynch believes that Slot's team have the opportunity to put significant pressure on their rivals, telling Sports Mole : "[Liverpool will] be thinking that they can extend the lead because City and Arsenal are wobbling. "If you can just keep your noses in front at all times, it gives you that extra confidence and it also puts the scoreboard pressure on your title rivals. "It starts to come to the point where Liverpool can relax. [They've] got this gap, [they're] not playing under massive pressure. [They] can play [their] football and be open and take risks at times, whereas Manchester City and Arsenal, if [they] drop points again, [they're] done, [they're] out of it. There's a psychological element that will play on the other title rivals." Interestingly, despite boasting a remarkable 28 points from a possible 33, Liverpool collected the same number of points from the corresponding fixtures in 2023-24. The Reds have scored 19 goals and conceded on six occasions under Slot in their games against the teams Jurgen Klopp 's side faced last season, and though they have conceded four goals fewer, they have also scored seven fewer as well. While some might point to those statistics and suggest that Liverpool could yet slip up in the title race this term, it is important to note that the Reds are performing considerably better in several other underlying metrics. For instance, Liverpool faced 1.2 xG per 90 in 2023-24 but have only faced 0.85 per 90 this campaign, and this figure is the best in the entire division. Lynch expressed his belief to Sports Mole that fans should not necessarily be surprised by the position that the Reds find themselves in, saying: "Liverpool were very good last season. People forget they were top of the table after 30 games. "I think because of the way it panned out in the end people forget they were involved in the title race. It almost gets talked about as if it was just Arsenal and Manchester City. "[Liverpool] were doing a bit of a high wire act at times [in 2023-24]: 'we'll score four, you score three' approach to games, and that was quite tiring for them. So being on par with last season is no bad thing." Should Liverpool defeat Southampton and win against City at Anfield in the following matchweek, then they would be 11 points clear of Guardiola's side after just 13 games. The Merseysiders are the only team to have won a league title other than the Citizens in the past seven seasons, ending the 2019-20 campaign on 99 points, 18 ahead of City. Every time Guardiola's side have participated in a competitive title race, his team have come out on top, and perhaps Slot's best chance of overcoming his Spanish counterpart would be to build an unassailable lead. Arsenal could yet re-enter the race, especially given they have already played several of the league's best away from home, but it would likely take a near-perfect season from now on for the Gunners to finish first. Lynch highlighted his belief that should Liverpool avoid dropping points against opponents that they would normally be expected to beat, then winning the Premier League is a distinct possibility considering the early advantage the Reds have over their rivals. When speaking about the position the club find themselves in, Lynch told Sports Mole : "[Liverpool] have got to avoid [dropping points] towards the end [of the season]. "It's a Liverpool side that's going to pick up an awful lot of points, and again, the upside is that you see a Manchester City and Arsenal that are unable to match what they did last season. "If that theme continues throughout the season, then Liverpool will, I'm not going to say run away with it, but they'll be right up there and should probably win it." Sports Mole editor Barney Corkhill spoke with Liverpool expert David Lynch to discuss Liverpool's next set of fixtures, and the advantages that they hold over Manchester City and Arsenal. Press play on the video at the top of this article to hear the full discussion.Nikki Bella enjoys lunch with twin sister Brie in Napa Valley days after Artem Chigvintsev divorce finalized Have YOU got a story? Email tips@dailymail.com By TERRY ZELLER and DEIRDRE DURKAN-SIMONDS and DIANA COOPER FOR DAILYMAIL.COM Published: 17:45, 24 November 2024 | Updated: 17:54, 24 November 2024 e-mail 2 View comments Nikki Bella was spotted in Napa Valley with her twin sister Brie, just days after her highly publicized divorce from Artem Chigvintzev was finalized . The 41-year-old retired WWE star appeared to be in excellent spirits as she savored a birthday lunch at the renowned wine country destination on Thursday. Accompanying her were Brie, several gal pals, and her four-year-old son Matteo, whom she shares with the 42-year-old Dancing with the Stars pro. Dressed in a chic, neutral-toned ensemble with sleeveless cream coat, Nikki looked effortlessly stunning as she sipped on an iced coffee while enjoying an outdoor outing with her family. Her radiant demeanor made it seem as though she was miles away from the drama that had recently surrounded her personal life. Despite the divorce settlement and legal complexities—like the dismissal of restraining orders between the exes —Nikki appeared unfazed, enjoying the moment with a calm demeanor. Nikki Bella was spotted in Napa Valley with her twin sister Brie, just days after her highly publicized divorce from Artem Chigvintzev was finalized Also on the outing was Nikki's twin sister Brie Garcia The twins were celebrating their 41st birthday in the famed wine country According to court documents obtained by DailyMail.com, the restraining orders filed against each other were dismissed following a settlement. The documents show that a request to dismiss the temporary restraining orders was filed in Napa County on November 19. Read More EXCLUSIVE Artem Chigvintsev 'lost out on $100k' following domestic violence arrest Before their two-day hearing on December 5, the estranged couple took part in a mediation on November 8, which led to a settlement on all divorce-related matters. The documents also confirm that both temporary restraining orders—filed by Nikki on September 30 and Artem on October 3—were immediately terminated and are no longer in effect. In addition, DailyMail.com obtained court documents of three deputies being subpoenaed to court earlier this month: Deputy Michael Moore, Deputy Gregory Landry and Deputy Ronnie Galindo of Napa County Sheriff's Office. However, since the December 5th hearing was taken off the calendar, the officers are no longer needed in court. In Garcia's, 40, restraining order against Chigvintsev, she claimed he got cut from Dancing with the Stars season 33 a week before his arrest, and began working a construction job she says he felt 'was beneath him.' However in documents filed by Chigvintsev he claimed that was not the case, and that he enjoys construction work. Ahead of their two-day hearing, beginning on December 6, the estranged couple attended a mediation on November 8, resulting in 'memorializing a global settlement of all issues in this Dissolution of Marriage action' (seen in 2017) Chigvintsev was arrested August 29 in Yountville, California in connection with domestic violence , but prosecutors in Napa County ultimately decided against filing criminal charges in the case. Garcia later filed for divorce and unsuccessfully requested sole custody of their son Matteo, four, with the pair granted temporary restraining orders against each other. In legal documents obtained by DailyMail.com and filed October 31 in Napa Superior Court, DWTS pro Chigvintsev - who was axed from the show's latest season - says the trauma of the arrest and false allegations led to him losing substantial income. The documents read: 'It is not true that I have not been able to find other work as a dancer. I normally start jobs in November and it goes for 20 weekends. After the mug shot and the arrest based on her false allegations, I was taken off the website faculty list resulting in loss of over $100k in income.' 'I also lost the social media promotion revenue, which she continues to benefit from as she was more worried about her career when she lied to the police, than mine.' At the time, he was seeking Nikki to pay his out-of-pocket expenses because the TRO was granted without enough supporting facts. He is asking her to pay for his rent because 'I was kicked out of the home.' The dancer also wants Nikki to pay for some or all of his lawyer's fees and costs. Chigvintsev claims in the documents that Garcia has 'anger issues' and says: 'She is the one with the temper. I try to stay quiet and avoid it. She yells, and on 8/29/24 was yelling, pursuing me, and was the one who attacked me.' 'It is further a lie that I was growing increasingly angry, snapping at her, and yelling.' The former couple share a four-year-old son Matteo Chigvintsev was arrested August 29 in Yountville, California in connection with domestic violence, but prosecutors in Napa County ultimately decided against filing criminal charges in the case (seen in his mugshot) 'I was not violent with her and did not violently grab or yell at her.' He claims the pair had an argument when he was due to to have surgery but she had to go to New York. He claims: 'We had an argument, but it's not how she describes it. We agreed months before my surgery that she would be there with Matteo. I was supposed to fly to have my surgery on 5/19/24, she forgot about it and booked herself for work in New York.' 'She then told me that her work was more important than my medical procedure, so she ended up leaving. Our son was left with nanny. I canceled my ticket and stayed behind. She then started sending me texts for different flight I could take, so I ended up going because she insisted I go. I have texts to prove this.' In response to the request for a Domestic Violence Restraining Order he claimed: 'She abused me, not the other way around. She threw shoes at me, followed me and tried to break her way into the bedroom.' 'I cannot trust her anymore. Not only did she lie to the police so that her career remains intact, ruining mine, but she used the court proceeding to keep our son away from me for almost a month, not letting me see him until this Court issued its 50/50 orders on 10/15/2024, which I am very grateful for,' he wrote. 'Almost a month without Matteo was miserable for me, and I am sure for him as well, and selfish of Wife.' In September, Chigvintsev told People in a statement that he was 'incredibly relieved and grateful that the domestic violence charges against [him] have been dropped.' 'This has been an extremely difficult time for me. I am thankful that the truth has prevailed. My focus has always been and will always be, our son Matteo,' he said. Artem met Nikki on DWTS - they competed together on the show in 2017, and went on to marry in 2022; the pair pictured together in 2017 The ballroom dance expert said that he considers fatherhood 'the greatest blessing' and is focused on caring for his son moving forward. 'All along, my main concern has been for him,' Chigvintsev said. 'I am committed to continuing to provide him with the love, support, and care he needs as we move forward.' He said to the publication that he was 'hopeful that securing an equal custody arrangement will help us move on' in life. 'I want to express my deepest gratitude to my family, friends, and legal team for standing by me during this challenging time,' Chigvintsev said. 'Your support has been invaluable, and I am thankful to everyone who believed in me and saw the truth for what it was. 'I look forward to moving past this chapter and focusing on what truly matters - continue being the best father I can be.' On October 16 the judge ruled that the pair will share custody of their son Matteo, TMZ reported citing court docs, more than a month after Garcia filed for divorce. Garcia had petitioned the court for sole custody of their son; asked for the court to appoint a supervisor for Matteo's visits with the Izhevsk, Russia native; and asked that Chigvintsev be ordered to attend anger management courses; all requests were denied by the court, according to the outlet. Both Chigvintsev and Garcia were ordered by the court to enroll in parenting classes to help them remain cordial as they raise their child following their split. Nikki Bella WWE Share or comment on this article: Nikki Bella enjoys lunch with twin sister Brie in Napa Valley days after Artem Chigvintsev divorce finalized e-mail Add comment

Rushdie's Satanic Verses Selling in India After 36 YearsCHANTILLY, Va., Dec. 05, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Parsons Corporation (NYSE: PSN) announced today that the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) has selected the Tutor/O&G joint venture (JV) team, with Parsons as the lead designer, for the Newark AirTrain Replacement Program – Guideway and Stations project. The $1.18 billion project is a critical component of the modernization of Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and will replace the existing, aging AirTrain system with a state-of-the-art automated people mover (APM) to better serve the airport's growing passenger needs. The new AirTrain system will enhance passenger experience and improve operational efficiency at one of the region's busiest airports. The replacement system will improve reliability, offer modern amenities, and accommodate increasing passenger demand. As the lead designer, Parsons will be responsible for designing 2.5 miles of elevated guideway, along with three new stations—Station 1, Station 3, and the Rail Link Station. “Parsons is proud to apply our deep aviation expertise to this large-scale infrastructure project,” said Mark Fialkowski, president of Infrastructure North America for Parsons. “The AirTrain is a natural extension of our work on the EWR Terminal A project and will provide a world-class transportation system to support the future of Newark Liberty International Airport.” The award of the AirTrain contract marks a significant step in enhancing Newark Liberty International Airport's connectivity, with Parsons playing a key role in the project. The new system will directly link the state-of-the-art Terminal A, which was also designed by Parsons in partnership with Tutor Perini. Parsons contributed significant design work to the airport’s broader transit network, addressing the long-standing need for direct access. The team provided key foundational work on the project, ensuring a robust and efficient solution for travelers. With the addition of this new project, Parsons continues to strengthen its leadership in delivering complex, mission-critical infrastructure solutions across the New York Metropolitan Area. The company’s proven expertise in alternative delivery methods and role as a trusted partner has enabled it to successfully complete a range of high-profile, large-scale projects for PANYNJ. Parsons has decades of experience designing, delivering, and protecting the infrastructure that connects our communities around the world, including roads and highways; bridges; passenger and freight rail; public transit; airports; and ports and waterways. Our experience includes more than 10,000 miles of roadways, 4,500 bridges, and more than 50 advanced traffic management system deployments that help cities and states improve safety and travel efficiency while also reducing emissions and energy costs to enhance the quality of life in the communities we serve. To learn more about Parsons’ aviation expertise, visit www.Parsons.com/aviation/ . To learn more about Parsons’ rail and transit expertise, visit https://www.parsons.com/rail-transit/ . About Parsons Parsons (NYSE: PSN) is a leading disruptive technology provider in the national security and global infrastructure markets, with capabilities across cyber and intelligence, space and missile defense, transportation, environmental remediation, urban development, and critical infrastructure protection. Please visit parsons.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Facebook to learn how we're making an impact. Media Contact: Lexus K. White +1 470.510.6690 Lexus.White@parsons.com Investor Relations Contact: Dave Spille + 1 703.775.6191 Dave.Spille@parsons.us

Pep Guardiola admitted that Manchester City's grip on the Premier League will be over if they lose at Anfield next week. Pep Guardiola has conceded that Manchester City's hopes of retaining the Premier League title will be all but over if they lose to Liverpool at Anfield next week. City's recent struggles continued with a 4-0 defeat at home to Tottenham, leaving them trailing Arne Slot's league leaders by eight points if the Reds win at Southampton. Guardiola acknowledged that a defeat at Anfield would be a decisive blow in the title race, saying: "Yes. In terms of Liverpool winning, winning, winning it's true. I don't know what is going to happen, but the reality is here and we have to win games." The City boss also warned that things could get even worse for his team, saying: "People are saying it can't get worse - but it can get worse. The exceptional things we have done over the last eight years are not eternal. I said how difficult it was to do the things we have done - and now people might believe me." Guardiola attributed City's recent struggles to a combination of factors, saying: "We are a bit fragile right now, but we can't run away. We have to face it. I would like to say there is just one reason for losing three Premier League games in a row. There are many details that we have to fix." The defeat to Tottenham was City's heaviest at the Etihad and their worst at home since a 5-1 loss to Arsenal 21 years ago, with James Maddison scoring twice and Pedro Porro and Brennan Johnson also finding the net. Guardiola faced a rare dip in his managerial record with Manchester City after defeat to Spurs marked five losses on the trot - something not endured by the team since Stuart Pearce's management in 2006, reports the Mirror . Spurs' boss Ange Postecoglou demanded consistency from his squad following their triumph in Manchester, proclaiming: "Today was about doubling down on our football principles. It's a significant win. City have got an unbelievable record here at home. "It isn't something you can be blasé about. We have reached these standards before - now it's about not dropping. You don't come to a place like this believing it is going to be as convincing as it was for us. "City test you in every footballing way possible. Defensively, working hard, being disciplined and playing football - and in all four areas we got to a strong level. We got back to our core beliefs as a team. We knew they would really come out because four defeats had all been away from home but we really grew into the game." Leicester's key player Maddison, who sparkled on his birthday, remarked on the milestone victory: "That's a birthday I'll look back on quite fondly. To come here to the champions and perform like that and get the result. You have to cherish these ones, they don't come around often."The Los Angeles Galaxy will aim to complete one of the most remarkable transformations in Major League Soccer history on Saturday when they host the New York Red Bulls chasing a record-extending sixth MLS Cup crown. A year ago, the California franchise had hit rock bottom, plummeting to their worst ever regular season record to finish one place off the bottom of the Western Conference. The team that had once been a home to the likes of David Beckham, Steven Gerrard and Zlatan Ibrahimovic were engulfed in crisis, with fans boycotting fixtures after nearly a decade of failure on the field. Moreover, the Galaxy's status as one of MLS's glamour clubs had been diminished by the arrival of Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, as well as the emergence of city rivals Los Angeles FC, winners of the MLS Cup in 2022. The febrile atmosphere at the Galaxy prompted team ownership to shake up their front office, with Will Kuntz appointed general manager to replace long-time predecessor Chris Klein, who was fired in May 2023. The turnaround since those changes has been dramatic. After winning just eight fixtures in the 2023 season, the Galaxy under head coach Greg Vanney won a record-equalling 19 games this season to finish joint top of the table, second only to leaders LAFC on goal difference. The Galaxy kept up their winning ways in the postseason, swatting aside Colorado 9-1 on aggregate to wrap up their first round series, before thrashing Minnesota United 6-2 and then squeezing past Seattle 1-0 last weekend. Those results have left the club on the threshold of a first MLS Cup title since 2014 and a record sixth championship overall. Victory in Saturday's showpiece in Carson would be especially sweet for Vanney, who appeared in three MLS Cup finals with the Galaxy as a player in 1996, 1999 and 2001 -- and lost all three. Reflecting on his team's journey to this year's final, Vanney said this week his team had thrived under the pressure of being expected to challenge for silverware. "The expectation is to be in games like this, to win trophies and win championships," Vanney said. "This group has come out and attacked it from day one and hasn't been afraid of it or in awe of it -- and that's one of the beauties of this group. "I'm excited for this group and this opportunity and now the objective is to win it and put the stamp on it, rewriting a new group of players and new legacy for this organisation." Vanney's task has become more complicated by an injury to star midfielder Riqui Puig, who suffered torn knee ligaments in last week's Western Conference final win over Seattle and will miss Saturday's game. "He's the ultimate competitor," Vanney said. "He wants to win, compete, and take responsibility on the field. He drives the team in so many ways. "We're going to have to adapt, and we're going to have to adapt in a collective way." The Galaxy meanwhile will be wary of a New York Red Bulls line-up that have ripped up the form book en route to the final. After finishing seventh in the Eastern Conference -- 27 points behind leaders Inter Miami -- the Red Bulls stunned reigning champions Columbus in the first round of the playoffs before wins on the road over rivals New York City FC and Orlando to book their place in their first MLS Cup since 2008. New York's Scotland international midfielder Lewis Morgan says the team is unfazed by Saturday's assignment in Los Angeles. "For me, it doesn't really matter where it is: it's playoff football," Morgan said this week. "It's not the regular season. These games are more cagey. You go 1-0 up, we defend a little bit deeper and we're relying on guys at the back. There have been massive performances." rcw/bbFive days after Bruins firing, Montgomery named NHL Blues coach

NEW BRITAIN — After being projected by the NEC coaches poll to place last in the conference standings for the 2024 season, the Central Connecticut State University Blue Devils football team did the unthinkable, winning the 2024 NEC title after defeating the Duquesne Dukes 21-14 at Arute Field on Saturday. Saturday’s game in New Britain was for all the marbles, as Duquesne (8-3) headed into Saturday’s contest with a perfect 5-0 conference record as the Blue Devils held a 4-1 conference record. With their 21-14 head-to-head win, the Blue Devils won the tie-breaker and earned the 2024 conference title and will earn a trip to the FCS playoffs. With the win, Central earned their seventh NEC title in program history, and picked up their third win against a ranked FCS team while snapping an eight-game win streak that the Dukes carried into Saturday’s game. The Blue Devils also snapped a three-game win streak Duquesne had over them. This is CCSU’s first NEC title since the 2019 season. Following their Saturday win, CCSU coach Adam Lechtenberg spoke about the team’s ability to be resilient to pull off their big win. In a game that was back-and-forth and always in reach, he gave credit to his players being able to make key plays in critical situations to cap off their win. “It shows that we’re resilient,” said Lechtenberg. “We talk about the adversity you face in your life, it’s always going to be different and the only thing you can do is get up, compete, and overcome it. Our kids did that.” “Duquesne is a heck of a football team, they’re well-coached, they’re very talented,” Lechtenberg continued. “We had to play every play, it came down to the wire like we knew it would and we made enough plays to beat them.” Central’s defense had a big game, causing eight total turnovers and an NEC-record seven interceptions. Duquesne quarterback Darius Perrantes had thrown just eight interceptions on the entire season heading into Saturday’s game, bringing his season total to 15. CCSU Freshman defensive back Christopher Jean had a hat-trick on defense, recording three interceptions. This comes a week after he had two fumble recoveries, one of which he returned back for a touchdown in CCSU’s double-overtime win against Robert Morris. Jean said his ability to create turnovers is a result of trusting his teammates to do their jobs, which has set him up in position to come up with multiple turnovers. “My ability to make plays comes from my ability to trust my teammates,” said Jean “I know they’re going to be in the right place for me to just come and do what I do.” Jean also said the success in his last few games is one of the best feelings ever after getting hurt last season. “It’s one of the greatest things ever. My first chance to start, I got hurt, I came back, I finished the season off great, all because my guys believed in me, they gave me a chance, and I capitalized on it.” On offense, CCSU running back Elijah Howard ran for a game-high 110 yards and had two rushing touchdowns including the game-winning touchdown run with 13:44 left in the game. He also had the reception on CCSU’s two-point try the following play, to give Central a 21-14 lead that they would hold on to. Howard said while no one believed that they could become conference champions, the team had no doubts that they would end up at the top of the conference. “It feels great, since day one, all odds was against us,” said Howard. “Voted last in the NEC. Coach Lech and everyone in the locker room, we were the only ones that believed. Everyday we came out and kept competing, kept trying to get better and look at the scoreboard, we’re the champions.” After a scoreless first quarter, there were 20 points scored in the second quarter. The Blue Devils got on the scoreboard first, as kicker Jack Banrum hit a 47-yard field goal with 10:17 left in the first half. Duquesne quickly responded, using five plays to march down the field for 75 yards to take the lead, scoring the game’s first touchdown. Quarterback Darius Perrantes hit wide receiver Joey Isabella for a 36-yard touchdown pass to give the Dukes a 7-3 lead with 2:19 left in the first half. Duquesne wouldn't hold their lead for that long. The Blue Devils responded on their next drive with a touchdown of their own, using just three plays. Howard gained a first down with an 11-yard run on the first play of the drive, before Olson and wide receiver Paul Marsh hooked up on a 49-yard connection through the air to put the Blue Devils at the four-yard line. On the next play, Howard scored Central’s first touchdown on a four-yard run to give the Blue Devils a 10-7 lead with 6:42 left in the second quarter. A second interception by Jean with 57 seconds left put Central in great position to score before the half, setting up shop at midfield. Before the half ended, CCSU added to their lead as Barnum hit a 24-yard field goal to give the Blue Devils a 13-7 lead. With the field goal, Barnum hit his 15th field goal of the season, breaking the previous school record (14) that he tied last season. Receiving the ball in the second half, Duquesne used one play to retake the lead. Perrantes and Isabella connected for a second touchdown, with Isabella taking a reception over the middle of the field and turning upfield to break free for an 85-yard score. The Dukes took a 14-13 lead. Central had a few chances in the quarter to score, but couldn’t manage to do so. At the beginning of the fourth quarter, Jean came up big yet again for the Blue Devils, getting a third interception, setting up the Blue Devils at Duquesne’s 32-yard line. After a 12-yard run from Howard, a catch to wide receiver Isaac Boston, and a personal foul from the Dukes’ defense, Central got down to the six-yard line. Howard rushed in from six yards out for the go-ahead score to give Central a 21-14 lead with 13:44 remaining. The CCSU defense would force two more key turnovers in the fourth quarter to hold onto their 21-14 lead, becoming conference champions. Following their win, the Blue Devils will gear up for an FCS playoff game next weekend. “We’ll get ready just like we do every other game,” said Lechtenberg. “It’s one day at a time, one play at a time, and that’s what we’ll do, we’ll be ready to play.”"Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum." Section 1.10.32 of "de Finibus Bonorum et Malorum", written by Cicero in 45 BC "Sed ut perspiciatis unde omnis iste natus error sit voluptatem accusantium doloremque laudantium, totam rem aperiam, eaque ipsa quae ab illo inventore veritatis et quasi architecto beatae vitae dicta sunt explicabo. Nemo enim ipsam voluptatem quia voluptas sit aspernatur aut odit aut fugit, sed quia consequuntur magni dolores eos qui ratione voluptatem sequi nesciunt. Neque porro quisquam est, qui dolorem ipsum quia dolor sit amet, consectetur, adipisci velit, sed quia non numquam eius modi tempora incidunt ut labore et dolore magnam aliquam quaerat voluptatem. Ut enim ad minima veniam, quis nostrum exercitationem ullam corporis suscipit laboriosam, nisi ut aliquid ex ea commodi consequatur? Quis autem vel eum iure reprehenderit qui in ea voluptate velit esse quam nihil molestiae consequatur, vel illum qui dolorem eum fugiat quo voluptas nulla pariatur?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" 1914 translation by H. Rackham "But I must explain to you how all this mistaken idea of denouncing pleasure and praising pain was born and I will give you a complete account of the system, and expound the actual teachings of the great explorer of the truth, the master-builder of human happiness. No one rejects, dislikes, or avoids pleasure itself, because it is pleasure, but because those who do not know how to pursue pleasure rationally encounter consequences that are extremely painful. Nor again is there anyone who loves or pursues or desires to obtain pain of itself, because it is pain, but because occasionally circumstances occur in which toil and pain can procure him some great pleasure. To take a trivial example, which of us ever undertakes laborious physical exercise, except to obtain some advantage from it? But who has any right to find fault with a man who chooses to enjoy a pleasure that has no annoying consequences, or one who avoids a pain that produces no resultant pleasure?" Thanks for your interest in Kalkine Media's content! To continue reading, please log in to your account or create your free account with us.

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