Ireland’s shock victory over Australia in the International Rules series has left bookies licking their wounds.  Paddy Power have been battered to the tune of over €50,000 by patriotic punters who kept their faith in Sean Boylan’s men. 

Punters couldn’t believe their eyes that the bookie had actually extended Ireland’s odds of winning from 13/8 to 2/1 following their victory in the first test.

Paddy Power said, “Based on the last couple of years we thought that Ireland needed a big lead going to the second test to have any chance of a series victory – shows how much we know about it!  We may have been hammered by our punters but how can you not cheer on an Irish win?”

Despite this year’s result, Australia are 4/6 favourites for the rematch in Croke Park next year.  Ireland are 11/10 to repeat their victory.

Since Cork’s most famous rebel, Roy Keane, walked out in Saipan, the Cork Hurlers have gone on strike three times. 

However, with strike action no longer an option following an ‘all party agreement’, Paddy Power are now offering odds on which of Cork’s rebellious hurlers is first to retire following the threat of action from the County’s finest. 

Donal Og Cusack and Diarmuid O’Sullivan head the betting at 13/8 with Cathal Naughton the least likely at 50/1.

International Rules Series 2009

4/6       Australia
11/10   Ireland

First Cork Hurler to Retire

13/8     Donal Og Cusack

13/8     Diarmuid O’Sullivan

7/2       Ben O’Connor

7/1       Timmy McCarthy

7/1       John Gardiner

12/1     Sean Og O’Hailpin

50/1     Cathal Naughton