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- GAME-DAY GRIND: March 21, 2025
GAME-DAY GRIND: March 21, 2025
Farewell to a Motorsport Legend, McIlroy's Magic and The Might of the Magpies
Tom Hillary
March 21, 2025
👋 Happy Friday Sports Fans.
It's that time of the week! It's time to take a breather, grind those beans and fire up the coffeemaker (or just pop the kettle on).
This week we are paying tribute to the one and only Eddie Jordan.
Grab your mug and settle in.
Table of Contents
1. The Perfect Pour
☕ Coffee of the Week: Non-Alcoholic Irish Coffee
Why This Brew Is A Winner
In memory of the legendary Eddie Jordan and his proud Dublin roots, this week we're featuring a classic from his homeland. Our non-alcoholic Irish coffee delivers all the bold warmth and creamy indulgence that the charismatic Irishman brought to motorsport – minus the whiskey! It's the perfect way to toast EJ's remarkable legacy while still keeping your head clear for that 7am kickoff. Perfect for early morning matches, late-night rugby marathons, or when you're bleary-eyed watching F1 action from the other side of the globe.
The Flavour Playbook
A velvety coffee base gets a subtle sweetness boost from maple syrup, then crowned with a pillowy layer of whipped cream that slowly melts into the drink with each sip. Bold, smooth, and utterly indulgent – without the guilt or groggy aftermath.
Perfect Match-Day Pairings
Those cold, grey Sunday mornings catching up on yesterday's Premier League highlights
Rewatching Rory McIlroy clinch that thrilling Players Championship playoff against J.J. Spaun
Newcastle fans still riding high on EFL Cup glory (70 years in the making deserves a proper celebration brew!)
Brew It Like a Pro
What You’ll Need:
1 cup strong brewed coffee (or 1–2 shots of espresso topped with hot water)
1 tsp brown sugar or maple syrup
Dash of vanilla extract for the substitutes' bench
Thick cream (whipped to soft peaks – aim for that perfect float)
The Method:
Brew your coffee strong and dark, pouring it into a pre-warmed mug
Stir in the maple syrup or brown sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
Feeling fancy? Add that touch of vanilla for extra depth
The championship move: gently float your whipped cream on top by pouring it over the back of a spoon
Don't stir – true fans know you sip through the cream for the full experience
For maximum impact, use a deep, dark roast with chocolatey undertones. Want that authentic "pub-in-a-mug" feeling? Try a smoky-flavoured coffee bean like Bewley’s Odyssey Blend No.08 it is the perfect companion for those mornings when you need all the comfort of an Irish coffee but all the clarity of match day analysis.
2. 🏆Grounds for Celebration - Brew-Castle: Magpies Serve Up Cup Final Victory
Newcastle End 70-Year Trophy Drought with EFL Cup Triumph
Newcastle United's incredible EFL Cup victory on March 16th has sent shockwaves through the sporting world. The Magpies overcame Liverpool 2-1 at Wembley Stadium to secure their first major domestic trophy since 1955, ending seven decades of heartbreak for the Toon Army.
Match Highlights
The tension at Wembley was palpable as Newcastle fans dared to dream. Their patience was rewarded when local lad Dan Burn rose highest in the 44th minute to power home Kieran Trippier's corner, sending the Geordie fans into raptures just before half-time.
The Magpies didn't rest on their laurels, with Swedish star Alexander Isak doubling their advantage early in the second half with a sublime half-volley that gave Liverpool's keeper no chance.
Federico Chiesa pulled one back for Liverpool deep into stoppage time, but it was too little too late as Newcastle held firm to secure their historic triumph.
Howe's Magic Touch
What Eddie Howe has achieved since taking the helm in November 2021 borders on miraculous. The transformation from relegation strugglers to Champions League participants and now trophy winners speaks volumes about his managerial prowess.
When Howe arrived, Newcastle were fighting for survival. Less than four years later, they've secured a top-four Premier League finish and ended their trophy drought. The EFL Cup victory isn't just a single achievement – it's the culmination of a remarkable journey under Howe's stewardship.
Toon Army Celebrations
The scenes of jubilation following the final whistle were nothing short of spectacular. St James' Park, where thousands gathered to watch on big screens, erupted as the referee blew for full-time. Meanwhile, London's Covent Garden was transformed into a Geordie outpost as travelling fans celebrated long into the night.
The raw emotion on display told the story of what this victory means to Newcastle supporters. Generations of fans have waited for this moment, with many never having seen their beloved club lift a major trophy.
Memorable Moments
The TV cameras couldn't get enough of famous Geordie duo Ant & Dec, who received almost as much screen time as some players. Their genuine reactions captured the rollercoaster of emotions experienced by every Newcastle fan.
In a bizarre twist, Ant was spotted sporting a scarf featuring the face of assistant manager Jason Tindall – perhaps the most unexpected piece of memorabilia from a day full of surprises.
Looking Ahead
Rather than opting for the traditional open-top bus parade, Newcastle are considering a massive celebration event at the Town Moor. This innovative approach would allow even more fans to join in the festivities and create yet another unforgettable chapter in the club's history.
But what do fans actually think? Game-Day Grind stirred the pot with our rather controversial poll asking whether an open-top bus parade would be "over the top" for what some might dismissively call a "minor" trophy. The results were crystal clear - a massive 75% of hundreds of voters said NO, it's absolutely NOT over the top to have a proper parade for this historic achievement. The fans have spoken loud and clear - Newcastle City Council, you know what to do!
This victory isn't just about ending a trophy drought – it's about announcing Newcastle's return to the top table of English football. With their passionate fanbase, shrewd management, and ambitious ownership, the Magpies are soaring once again.
3. 🔥☕ Espresso Express – A quick, bold shot of sports headlines, served hot and fast!
🤼 Kabaddi World Cup 2025 Arrives on British Soil
For the first time ever, the Kabaddi World Cup has landed in the UK. The 2025 tournament kicked off yesterday in the West Midlands, making history as the first tournament held outside of Asia. Both men's and women's teams are battling it out on the mat, with home nations England, Scotland, and Wales all fielding squads. The action is spread across Wolverhampton, Coventry, Birmingham, and Walsall – a testament to how this thrilling contact sport has captured British imaginations.
⚽ Chelsea Claim Women's League Cup in Thriller Against City
Chelsea edged Manchester City 2-1 at Pride Park to lift the Women's League Cup on March 15th. Mayra Ramírez gave Chelsea an early lead before Aoba Fujino equalized for City. The decisive moment came in the 77th minute when Yui Hasegawa's unfortunate own goal handed Chelsea the trophy. This victory gives Sonia Bompastor her first silverware as Chelsea boss and extends their impressive unbeaten run to 28 games this season.
🏌️♂️ McIlroy Claims Second Players Championship in Dramatic Playoff
Rory McIlroy has captured his second Players Championship title after defeating J.J. Spaun in a thrilling three-hole aggregate playoff at TPC Sawgrass on March 17th. The Northern Irishman's victory marks his 28th triumph on the PGA Tour and his second win of 2025, having already lifted the trophy at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am earlier this year. McIlroy showed remarkable composure throughout the playoff, securing what many consider golf's unofficial "fifth major" to add another prestigious title to his impressive collection.
4. 📅 What's Brewing – Upcoming Games to Watch
⚽️ Football: UEFA World Cup Qualifiers
England vs. Albania
Friday, March 21, 7:45 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: ITV 1
📻 Listen on: talkSPORTWales vs. Kazakhstan
Saturday, March 22, 7:45 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: BBC One Wales
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio WalesNorth Macedonia vs. Wales
Tuesday, March 25, 7:45 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: BBC One Wales
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio WalesEngland vs. Latvia
Monday, March 24, 7:45 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: ITV 1
📻 Listen on: talkSPORT
⚽️ Football: Women's Super League Fixtures
Everton Women vs. Crystal Palace Women
Saturday, March 22, 2:00 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: Sky Sports Football
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio MerseysideArsenal Women vs. Liverpool FC Women
Saturday, March 22, 5:30 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: BBC 2, BBC iPlayer,
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio LondonWest Ham United Women vs. Tottenham Hotspur Women
Sunday, March 23, 12:00 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: The FA Player
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio LondonManchester City Women vs. Chelsea Women
Sunday, March 23, 2:30 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: Sky Sports Main Event
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio Manchester
Leicester City Women vs. Brighton & Hove Albion Women
Sunday, March 23, 3:00 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: The FA Player
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio Leicester
Aston Villa Women vs. Manchester United Women
Sunday, March 23, 4:30 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: The FA Player
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio WM
🏉 Rugby Union – Gallagher English Premiership
Newcastle Falcons vs. Sale Sharks
Friday, March 21, 7:45 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: TNT Sports 1
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio NewcastleNorthampton Saints vs. Leicester Tigers
Friday, March 21, 7:45 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: TNT Sports 2
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio NorthamptonSaracens vs. Harlequins
Saturday, March 22, 3:05 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: TNT Sports 1
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra
Bristol Bears vs. Exeter Chiefs
Saturday, March 22, 5:30 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: TNT Sports 2
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio Bristol
Bath vs. Gloucester
Sunday, March 23, 3:00 PM GMT
📺 Watch on: TNT Sports 1
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio Gloucestershire
⛳️ Golf: Valspar Championship
📍 Innisbrook Resort (Copperhead Course) – Palm Harbor, FL
📅 Thursday, March 20 – Sunday, March 23, 2025
📺 Watch on: Sky Sports Golf, Sky Sports Main Event
📻 Listen on: PGA Tour Radio, SiriusXM
🏎️ Formula 1: Chinese Grand Prix
📍Shanghai International Circuit, Shanghai, China
Sunday, March 23, 7:00 AM GMT
📺 Watch on: Sky Sports F1
📻 Listen on: BBC Radio 5 Live
5. Eddie Jordan: A Motorsport Legend (1948-2025)🔥
In memory of the Mightiest Man in Motorsport
Eddie Jordan has died at 76. The motorsport team owner, broadcaster and businessman passed away during the early hours of Thursday, 20th March 2025, after being diagnosed with bladder and prostate cancer last year.
The Dubliner, known for his opinionated, mercurial and candid speaking style, leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in Formula 1 and beyond. Jordan was a natural entrepreneur with remarkable deal-making skills who created a championship-winning team from nothing. Here at Game-Day Grind, we raise our coffee mugs in tribute to Eddie as we look back at his remarkable journey through motorsport and beyond.
From Racer to Team Owner
In 1979, Eddie, who was short of money at the time, somehow managed to hustle his way into founding his very first motorsport team - Eddie Jordan Racing. In just a few short years, the team were competing for the British Formula 3 Championship with the help of one of Eddie's first signings - the iconic Martin Brundle. Under Jordan’s mentorship Brundle came close to winning the 1983 driver's championship, finishing second behind Ayrton Senna.
The team finally won the F3 championship in 1987 with Johnny Herbert as their number one driver. The following year, Jordan entered Formula 3000, achieving his first wins in 1988 with Martin Donnelly and Johnny Herbert. The very next year, they dominated the season with Jordan driver Jean Alesi winning the championship.
Formula 1 Success
In 1991, Eddie entered Formula 1 with Jordan Grand Prix. The car they entered that season went down in history with its iconic 7UP sponsorship and Cosworth engine. To this day, it remains arguably one of the best-looking F1 cars to have ever graced the grid. It was during this season that Eddie signed Michael Schumacher.
1998 brought the team their best-ever individual race result, with Damon Hill and Ralf Schumacher finishing first and second. In 1999, Heinz-Harald Frentzen secured second place in the driver's championship.
A decline in the team's performance and Honda pulling their engine deal from Jordan Racing to concentrate on a new partnership with BAR started the team's slow decline. In 2005, due to financial difficulties, Eddie was forced to sell the team to Midland Group, ending his tenure as a Formula 1 team owner.
Legacy in Formula 1
The team's legacy continued through a series of transformations - from MF1 Racing to Spyker Cars then to Force India in 2008, before becoming Racing Point which finally evolved into Aston Martin in 2021. Eddie's fingerprints remain all over the DNA of Aston Martin F1 - without his initial vision and graft, the team simply wouldn't exist as we know it today. This connection likely played no small part in Adrian Newey's big money move from Red Bull Racing to Aston Martin. After all, Eddie had long served as manager to Newey, who is widely regarded as the greatest F1 car designer of the 21st century.
Beyond Formula 1
Right up until the end, Eddie remained a whirlwind of activity at the intersection of sports and business, juggling multiple ventures with his characteristic entrepreneurial flair. Eddie was part of a consortium including ex-Springbok Bobby Skinstad and former All Black Andrew Mehrtens looking to purchase London Irish.
In February 2025, less than one month before his death, the consortium including Eddie Jordan completed the acquisition of London Irish. It goes without saying that all rugby fans are waiting with bated breath for the return of London Irish to the professional game and, no doubt, to Premiership Rugby.
An Eye for Talent
Jordan had a knack for recognising talent. The list of drivers he signed to race for Jordan or promoted into F1 is remarkable: Damon Hill, Michael Schumacher, Ralf Schumacher, Martin Brundle, Johnny Herbert, Jean Alesi, Giancarlo Fisichella, Eddie Irvine, John Watson, Rubens Barrichello, Jarno Trulli and Heinz-Harald Frentzen.
When releasing the devastating news of Eddie’s passing his family paid tribute to him saying,
"EJ brought an abundance of charisma, energy and Irish charm everywhere he went. We all have a huge hole missing without his presence. He will be missed by so many people, but he leaves us with tons of great memories to keep us smiling through our sorrow."
Eddie touched the hearts of so many - from F1 drivers to motorsport fans, the general public and now to rugby players and rugby fans. On their behalf, we say: Thank You, Eddie.
6. Grounds for Celebration: This Week’s Feel-Good Moment
Heartwarming Moment as Hamilton Sr. Consoles Devastated F1 Rookie
Formula 1 rookie Isack Hadjar endured a nightmare debut at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix when disaster struck before the race even began. The promising 20-year-old, who had qualified an impressive 11th, lost control of his car on the wet track during the formation lap.
The heartbreaking incident left Hadjar's car damaged beyond immediate repair, forcing him to miss his first ever Formula 1 Grand Prix and causing a delay to the race. As cameras caught the young driver visibly distraught in the garage, an unexpected figure stepped in with a gesture that's winning hearts across the motorsport world.
Anthony Hamilton, father of seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, approached the devastated rookie with words of comfort and wisdom. Drawing on decades of experience supporting his own son through the trials of motorsport, Hamilton Sr. reminded Hadjar of the immense sacrifice and dedication it takes to reach Formula 1.
"Keep your head up," Hamilton told the youngster, acknowledging his undeniable talent and assuring him that this setback would merely be a footnote in what promises to be a successful career.
This touching moment of sportsmanship reminds us all that behind the high-octane competition, Formula 1 remains a deeply human sport where experience and compassion still find their place.
7. 🤔 Extra Shot: Your Weekly Dose of Sports Trivia
Before their 2025 EFL Cup victory, Newcastle United last won a domestic trophy in 1955. What was the competition they won, and which team did they defeat in the final? |
The answer and the first person to make the correct choice will be announced in next week’s newsletter!
👏 A big round of applause for Luke Jones who aced last week's brain-teasing multiple choice question! While our tricky clues left most readers puzzled, Luke cut straight through the confusion to bag the correct answer immediately.
Well done Luke - your sports knowledge clearly matches the strength of your morning coffee!
Answer: No Australian has won it
That's full-time on this week's brew! Got a juicy sports story we missed or a coffee blend we need to try? Don't be shy—hit reply and spill the beans!
How did you find this week's Game-Day Grind? |