RUGBY UNION

LONDON IRISH look set to be granted a short deadline extension by the Rugby Football Union as they try to complete a takeover deal with an American consortium.

Irish had faced the possibility of suspension from the Gallagher Premiership today as their hopes of meeting an RFU deadline regarding their finances for next season appeared bleak.

The RFU had set a deadline of close of business yesterday for a takeover of the club to be completed and approved by Twickenham chiefs, or the club showing that it will continue to be funded to operate throughout next term.

The RFU’s club financial viability working group had a meeting scheduled for last night before making a recommendation to the RFU board today, which would be followed by an official announcement. It is understood that recommendation is likely to comprise a deadline extension – possibly of a week – although it would be conditional on Irish players’ May salaries being met by the club’s current ownership.

TAEKWONDO

REBECCA McGOWAN won silver at the World Championships in Baku in the -73kgs category.

The Dumbartonshire fighter, who turned 23 last weekend, won bronze at last year’s championships and had vowed to upgrade her medal, which she did in impressive fashion. She cruised through to the semi-finals where she faced the reigning Olympic champion, Matea Jelic of Croatia and the Scot upset the seedings to move into the final with a 7-5, 9-8 victory.

In the gold medal fight, McGowan was up against the European champion and Tokyo 2020 bronze medallist Althea Laurin from France and despite the Scot putting on a brave show, the Frenchwoman prevailed 16-10, 9-5.

McGowan’s second place ensured she picked up valuable ranking points as she aims to qualify for her first Olympic Games in Paris next summer.