Rookie Saints coach Kellen Moore takes fire for questionable fourth-down decisions

The New Orleans Saints entered their third game of the season winless but came out with an aggressive attitude against the Seattle Seahawks. However, some might say they were too aggressive, making questionable decisions far too early in the game.

One example came in the second quarter, roughly three and a half minutes into the contest, when the Saints attempted a fourth-down play from two yards out. Quarterback Spencer Rattler tried to connect with running back Alvin Kamara on a deep pass, but it fell incomplete. This gave Seattle the ball near midfield. The decision was particularly baffling since the game was still scoreless at that point.

On the very next fourth-down attempt, with just one yard to go, Rattler tried to pick up the first down himself. Unfortunately, a penalty pushed the Saints back, turning it into fourth and six, forcing them to punt.

Things went from bad to worse when Seahawks special teams ace Tory Horton returned the punt 95 yards for a touchdown, putting Seattle on the board in a big way.

Saints fans took to social media to express their frustration over the series of events, with many suggesting that New Orleans is making a strong case for being one of the worst teams in the NFL this season.
https://saintswire.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/saints/2025/09/21/saints-kellen-moore-fourth-down-spencer-rattler-seahawks/86282653007/

Andy Sheppard & Michael Arbenz – jazz opposites attract

Swiss pianist Michael Arbenz and living jazz legend, British saxophonist Andy Sheppard, are set to mesmerize audiences at the Clarence Jazz Club with their innovative new project, *From Bach to Ellington*. This concert promises a captivating dialogue between the timeless elegance of J.S. Bach and the lyrical beauty of Duke Ellington, blending Baroque counterpoint with jazz improvisation in a performance that is both unique and deeply emotional.

The duo’s collaboration draws on a rich history of shared musical exploration, rooted in years of mutual respect for each other’s work. Their new album, also titled *From Bach to Ellington*, merges original compositions inspired by Bach’s works with reimagined Ellington classics. This creates a soundscape that balances historical reverence with contemporary reinvention, characterized by subtle rhythms, chamber-like textures, and striking melodic clarity.

Michael Arbenz is a hugely eccentric, classically trained pianist with a passion for jazz, shaped by his studies in Basel. His exploration of jazz improvisation, combined with a rigorous classical background, has fueled a successful career, including performances with international jazz stars such as Greg Osby and Ron Carter.

Andy Sheppard, one of the most influential British jazz artists and a long-time ECM record label collaborator, is renowned for his imaginative yet tradition-grounded sound. As one of the few soloists to perform with the postwar big bands of Carla Bley, Gil Evans, and George Russell, Sheppard’s singular voice on the tenor saxophone perfectly complements Arbenz’s inventiveness.

Together, Arbenz and Sheppard offer a mesmerizing musical journey that bridges centuries and genres, inviting audiences to experience the fusion of Baroque sophistication and jazz artistry like never before. Don’t miss this exceptional performance at the Clarence Jazz Club.
https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/09/21/andy-sheppard-michael-arbenz-jazz-opposites-attract/

Hits and misses: Arsenal ‘finishers’ bail out Arteta as Pep ‘parks the bus’

Arsenal’s ‘Finishers’ Step Up Again

Mikel Arteta used the word “finishers” when talking up the importance of Arsenal’s substitutes following their Champions League win over Athletic Club on Tuesday. They came through again five days later in the 1-1 draw against Manchester City, helping the Gunners out of a tricky spot.

There did not seem to be much on when Eberechi Eze picked up the ball in his own half during the third of seven minutes of stoppage time after a largely listless Arsenal display. However, his perfectly weighted ball over the top found fellow “finisher” Martinelli, who did the rest.

The pass and looping finish that followed were rare moments of individual quality in an Arsenal performance that lacked attacking inspiration. For Martinelli, fresh from his goal and assist from the bench in midweek, it was further proof of his impact.

More broadly, though, it again reflected the increased depth available to Arteta. While it was clear the Arsenal boss got his starting line-up wrong, he is right in thinking matches can be changed from the bench—even if this time it was only enough for a draw.

Martinelli, in particular, will hope his latest contribution is enough to win him a place in the starting line-up against Newcastle next weekend. Alongside Eze, he provided another reminder that Arsenal have the quality and tools to turn games with their substitutes.

Nick Wright

Did Pep ‘Park the Bus’?

Pep Guardiola smiled when asked if he had “parked the bus” during his post-match press conference at the Emirates Stadium. “One time in 10 years isn’t bad,” joked the Manchester City boss.

City recorded just 32.8% possession in their draw with Arsenal—the lowest share of the ball by a Guardiola team in any league game throughout his 601-game top-flight career.

Guardiola attributed this not to a deliberate defensive tactic but to Arsenal’s quality. There may be some truth to that, especially considering the second-lowest possession percentage of his managerial career also came against Arsenal two years ago.

He also highlighted the context of a gruelling week for his players. Arsenal had two more days’ rest than City, who had faced Napoli in the Champions League on Thursday, following their Manchester derby win the previous Sunday.

There was an acceptance, too, that his new-look team is still finding its way. Changes in personnel over recent months require certain adjustments in their style. Erling Haaland’s goal reflected an increased emphasis on direct attacks, but the lack of possession was something different altogether.

Nick Wright

Newcastle’s Away-Goal Drought Continues

A combined expected goals total of just 0.69 summed up what was a dull affair between Newcastle and Bournemouth. The goalless draw was far from exciting but is not unfamiliar territory for Newcastle away from St James’ Park this season.

The Magpies have now failed to score in their last four away games, extending a winless run on the road to six matches.

Eddie Howe fielded a heavily changed Newcastle side, making seven alterations from the team that had been beaten by Barcelona. One of those changes included their club-record signing, Nick Woltemade. Despite some impressive moments on the ball, Woltemade failed to register a single shot, which will be a concern for Howe.

Having lost one of the league’s leading goalscorers in Alexander Isak, Newcastle now face a troubling goalscoring problem. This issue adds to the narrative about the impact of Isak’s departure.

The good news for Newcastle is they will have time to address their toothless away goalscoring run, as their next away match is against Brighton after the upcoming international break.

William Bitibiri

Sunderland’s ‘Captain Fantastic’ Xhaka Delivers Again

Few expected Granit Xhaka’s move from Bayer Leverkusen to newly-promoted Sunderland in the summer, but the decision has already been justified for both club and player.

The 32-year-old has played every minute of Sunderland’s first Premier League campaign since the 2016/17 season, helping Regis Le Bris’ side to eight points from their opening five games.

Xhaka is not only a calming presence in front of a defence with limited top-flight experience but also provides valuable attacking support. He assisted Wilson Isidor in the 2-1 win over Brentford last month and repeated the feat in the 1-1 draw against Aston Villa, cleverly cushioning a header to set up Isidor to score and earn a point.

In his post-match press conference, Le Bris revealed that Xhaka had addressed the squad following Reinildo’s needless red card, underlining his leadership qualities as captain.

William Bitibiri

https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/13435587/arsenal-finishers-eberechi-eze-and-gabriel-martinelli-bail-out-mikel-arteta-as-pep-guardiolas-man-city-parks-the-bus-premier-league-hits-and-misses

New six-part murder mystery starring Harry Potter actor based on best-selling book

**New Six-Part Murder Mystery Starring Harry Potter Actor Based on Best-Selling Book**

The first-look trailer for the new dramatic thriller *Murder Before Evensong* has been released, with Harry Potter star Matthew Lewis leading the cast of this six-part murder mystery series.

Adapted from Reverend Richard Coles’ best-selling novel of the same name, *Murder Before Evensong* is a fresh crime drama set to broadcast on Channel 5 later this year. The preview introduces Matthew Lewis in the role of Canon Daniel Clement, the Rector of the English village of Champton. Daniel finds himself at the heart of a homicide investigation when a corpse is discovered in the church.

The trailer also features a talented supporting cast, including Amanda Redman as Daniel’s mother, Audrey; Amit Shah as DS Neil Vanloo; Adam James as Bernard De Floures; and Tamzin Outhwaite as Stella Harper. Additional notable actors in the series include Meghan Treadway, Alexander Delamain, Marion Bailey, Amanda Hadingue, Francis Magee, and Nina Toussaint-White.

**Series Synopsis**

According to the official description:
“Daniel shares Champton rectory with his widowed mother Audrey and his two dachshunds, Cosmo and Hilda. When Daniel announces a plan to modernise the church, the parish becomes divided. Then, a body is found dead at the back of the church. As the police move in and the bodies start piling up, Daniel is the only one who can try and keep his fractured community together — and catch a killer.”

Following *Murder Before Evensong*, Reverend Richard Coles has written four additional volumes in the Canon Clement series: *A Death in the Parish* (2023), *Murder at the Monastery* (2024), *Murder Under the Mistletoe*, and *A Death on Location* (2025).

**About Matthew Lewis**

Matthew Lewis is best known for his iconic role as Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter film series. More recently, he has appeared in Channel 5’s drama *All Creatures Great and Small* and the BBC sitcom *Avoidance*, starring Romesh Ranganathan.

*Murder Before Evensong* is set to premiere soon on Channel 5. Fans of gripping murder mysteries and character-driven dramas won’t want to miss it.
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/tv/new-six-part-murder-mystery-35932694

Iga Swiatek recovers from slow start to win Korea Open title

Iga Swiatek battled back from a disastrous start to win the Korea Open on Sunday, defeating Russia’s Ekaterina Alexandrova 1-6, 7-6 (7/3), 7-5 in the final.

The world number two dropped the opening set after an error-strewn performance that was drastically out of keeping with her dominating form throughout the week in Seoul.

READ: Iga Swiatek made to
https://sports.inquirer.net/641167/iga-swiatek-recovers-from-slow-start-to-win-korea-open-title

‘Your children could be home tomorrow’: Mediator says Hamas ready for talks

Your Children Could Be Home Tomorrow: Mediator Says Hamas Ready for Talks

“I received indications from Hamas that they are prepared to resume negotiations immediately,” said Bishara Bahbah in a January 2024 interview.

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons / Medyascope TV

By MAARIV ONLINE

https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-868291

Overheard In Bhopal: New Homes, Efforts For Transfer, Efforts For Posting & More

**List of Officers’ Children Given Important Postings**

A recently released list of transfers reveals that children of several senior officers have been assigned important postings. For instance, the son of an IPS officer, despite being junior, has secured a significant position in the state’s commercial capital.

Similarly, an IAS officer who had been posted in a tribal area for a long time was taken out and given an important role. The son-in-law of a senior IAS officer was also posted in the business capital of the state, a decision made by government higher-ups some time ago.

In another case, the son of a late IAS officer has been transferred to another city and given an important post. His father, popular among bureaucrats, had died in an accident. Now, his son, an MP-cadre IAS officer, is following in his footsteps.

This time, the government has assigned young IAS officers to urban bodies, the industries department, and other key places. Against this backdrop, these three officers have been given crucial positions.

**New Homes for Senior Bureaucrats**

A few senior bureaucrats in the state have been allotted new homes by the government. After a long period, the head of the state bureaucracy has chosen a bungalow for himself. He will move into the house formerly occupied by a retired Director General of Police (DGP), which will be vacated during Navratri.

As the head of the state bureaucracy is expected to hold his position for at least one more year, he plans to shift to the new house soon, having spent the past year in a small house.

Similarly, new bungalows have been allotted to a senior IPS officer and a senior IAS officer. However, two houses remain unallotted. One bungalow, belonging to a retired officer who may be taking up new responsibilities, has been kept vacant. Another large bungalow, intended for the head of the state bureaucracy, remains empty as it did not meet his approval. Several politicians and officers have shown interest in this property.

**Efforts to Transfer a Principal Secretary**

There are ongoing attempts by certain individuals to remove a Principal Secretary (PS) from his department. These people wish to control the department themselves but have been hindered by the PS’s presence.

An organisation was recently allowed entry into the department for some work. While initial relations were smooth, tensions have since surfaced between the organisation’s members and the PS. The organisation has made demands that the department finds difficult to meet and is applying pressure on higher authorities.

The PS is currently conducting investigations before fulfilling these demands, which has further strained relations and angered the organisation. They are now lobbying the government to remove the PS, who is mentally prepared for the possibility.

Despite the pressure, none of the officers are willing to concede to the organisation’s demands.

**Conflict with Additional Chief Secretary**

Two officers within a department are currently at odds. The additional chief secretary (ACS), known for his quick wit, has caused friction with an IAS officer posted in an important position.

When this IAS officer was posted, another ACS headed the department and enjoyed strong support from senior government officials, often influencing decisions.

However, with the arrival of the new ACS, who has cordial relations with top officials, the officer’s influence has waned. While once his views were widely accepted, they are now frequently opposed. The ACS has even reprimanded him on certain occasions, which has led to the officer’s dissatisfaction.

Recent changes in top leadership have further dampened his enthusiasm. Observers believe the officer may not remain in the department for much longer, with the possibility of his transfer and replacement looming.

**Delhi Deputation Remains Elusive**

For some state officers, a transfer to Delhi remains a distant goal. Two commissioner-rank officers have applied for deputation to the Centre but are yet to receive clearance.

Dissatisfied with their current state postings, these officers are seeking opportunities in the Central Government. Despite one having political connections, both have faced hurdles in obtaining approval.

Under the current system, an officer’s performance is evaluated comprehensively for deputation consideration. Both officers have encountered issues during this 360-degree assessment.

Additionally, another IAS officer has been seeking a deputation to the Centre for one and a half years but has faced obstacles related to the specific post he desires. Meanwhile, the state government is not fully utilizing his talents.

**Efforts to Secure Important Posting**

A promotee IAS officer, who has been in the loop line for over two years, is eager to rejoin an important department. Known for his significant social connections, he has previously held key positions.

During the elections, he was transferred to the loop line and has remained there since. To return to mainstream administration, he has approached influential officers and even met with a powerful politician. However, the politician candidly informed him that his transfer recommendations would not secure a posting.

This officer, a former collector, hopes to serve as a collector again before retirement. He counts on support from senior officers with whom he previously worked, anticipating they may help him return to a prominent role.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/overheard-in-bhopal-new-homes-efforts-for-transfer-efforts-for-posting-more

Bangladesh Cricket Board elections on October 6, Tamim raises concerns

**Bangladesh Cricket Board Elections Scheduled for October 6; Tamim Iqbal Raises Concerns**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 21, 2025, 9:55 PM*

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) elections are set to take place on October 6, as announced today by the country’s Election Commission. In this election, the general members body, known as the councilors, will elect 23 out of the 25 board directors. Following this, a BCB president will be chosen from the 25 directors to serve a four-year term.

**Tamim Iqbal Alleges Interference in Election Process**

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal, who recently declared his intention to run for a position, has raised serious concerns about the election process. During a press conference in Dhaka held alongside other candidates and former BCB directors, Tamim accused the current BCB president, Nazmul Hassan, of “interference” in the elections.

Tamim criticized Nazmul Hassan for unilaterally extending the deadline for nomination submissions twice. He pointed out that a letter dated September 18, signed by Nazmul himself to extend the deadline, was not issued by the BCB’s chief executive. “The election commission has been in charge since their appointment. The BCB president extended the nomination deadline twice,” Tamim stated.

**Concerns Over Violation of BCB Constitution**

Tamim further alleged that the BCB’s constitution was breached when board representatives from eight divisions and 64 districts were nominated by an ad-hoc committee. He expressed that this nomination process conflicted with the established constitution, describing the entire procedure as a “selection” rather than a true election.

“If elections are conducted this way, it is no longer an election but a selection. Elections should be open and fair for everyone,” Tamim emphasized.

**Call for Fairness and Integrity**

Tamim appealed to the authorities to respect the original list of councilors. “I hope that those declared as councilors on September 17 remain unchanged. There should be no modifications,” he urged, stressing the need for a transparent and fair election process.

The election schedule includes the publication of a draft voter list on September 22, followed by the final list on September 25.

**Overview of the BCB Election Process**

The upcoming BCB election will proceed in three categories:

1. **Division and District Directors**: 10 directors will be elected from divisions and districts across Bangladesh.

2. **Dhaka Clubs Representatives**: 12 directors will be elected from representatives of Dhaka’s cricket clubs.

3. **Special Category Director**: One director will be elected from former cricketers, national captains, security forces, and councilors nominated by the National Sports Council.

Additionally, the Bangladesh government will appoint two directors to serve on the board.

As election day approaches, all eyes remain on the BCB and the Election Commission to ensure that the process is conducted fairly and transparently for the betterment of Bangladesh cricket.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/tamim-iqbal-raises-concerns-ahead-of-bcb-elections/story

Rory McIlroy fires back at Bryson DeChambeau’s trash talk ahead of Ryder Cup

Rory McIlroy has never shied away from trash talk during a Ryder Cup, and with the tournament at Bethpage Black this week, he has started again. McIlroy, who will star for Team Europe, took aim at one specific Team USA player: Bryson DeChambeau.

Earlier this summer, DeChambeau said he looked forward to talking some smack to McIlroy at the Ryder Cup. However, McIlroy brushed it off.

“I think the only way he gets attention is by mentioning other people,” McIlroy told The Guardian in an interview over the weekend. “That is basically what I think of that. To get attention he will mention me or Scottie [Scheffler] or others.”

The rivalry between McIlroy and DeChambeau has grown since their showdown at the Masters in April, where McIlroy won his first green jacket to complete the career Grand Slam. During that round, McIlroy was paired with DeChambeau, who struggled at Augusta National.

Afterward, DeChambeau told reporters he never spoke to McIlroy during the final round and found it odd. McIlroy, however, saw it differently. “I’m not going to try and be his best mate out there,” he said at the PGA Championship.

The feud reignited at the 2024 U.S. Open, where DeChambeau prevailed after McIlroy’s final-round collapse at Pinehurst No. 2. McIlroy’s outspoken opposition to LIV Golf, where DeChambeau now plays, has also fueled tension between the two stars.

That sets the stage for this week at Bethpage Black, where trash talk is expected both on the course and among the fans. The venue is anticipating about 50,000 spectators per day during the three-day tournament.

For more sports coverage, visit FoxNews.com.
https://www.foxnews.com/sports/rory-mcilroy-fires-back-bryson-dechambeaus-trash-talk-ahead-ryder-cup

MK Ayman Odeh to submit bill to Knesset to recognize Palestinian state

MK Ayman Odeh to Submit Bill to Knesset to Recognize Palestinian State

MK Ayman Odeh has announced his intention to submit a bill to the Knesset aimed at recognizing the Palestinian state. Odeh welcomed the recent trilateral recognition efforts and expressed his views on the Palestinian people, stating, “The Palestinian people are not the best people in the world, but there is no people in the world better than them.”

Odeh was seen attending a Hadash-Ta’al faction meeting at the Knesset, the Israeli parliament in Jerusalem, on June 30, 2025.

(Photo credit: Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/politics-and-diplomacy/article-868288

Exit mobile version