# crunching the numbers

All time

Ahead of the play-offs, what do the numbers tell us about this year's First Division?

With the semi-final first legs being played tonight, Shane Keegan looks at the key statistics from the 2021 season.

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Nov 3rd 2021, 7:00 AM

Exchequer deficit was €7.5 billion in April - more than double this time last year

Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe described it as a ‘sharp deterioration on the public finances”.

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May 5th 2020, 5:34 PM

Are penalty shootouts about to change dramatically?

Two academics are proposing a ‘catch-up’ rule to help eradicate the advantages afforded to the team that kicks first.

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Mar 29th 2016, 3:28 PM

"The government has been sacked": Mary Lou tops poll, says FG/FF deal not inevitable

There were several false dawns, but Mary Lou was eventually elected on the sixth count.

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Feb 27th 2016, 7:50 PM

Counting the cost: Does the Irish Cancer Society's hardship cut add up?

How does the Irish Cancer Society spend its money, and do its explanations make sense?

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Jan 13th 2016, 11:58 PM

The NFL could have a 6-10 playoff team this year - here is what would need to happen

Somebody needs to take a long, hard look at the standard in the NFC East.

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Dec 9th 2015, 12:15 PM

Who's chasing promotion and who's fearing relegation in the Allianz football league?

The last round of league games takes place this weekend.

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Apr 4th 2015, 9:35 AM

Small comforts: Ireland's record without Sean O'Brien is actually not that bad

He will be a big loss, but Ireland have coped with his absence since 2012.

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Oct 2nd 2014, 4:42 PM

A definitive ranking of Irish crisps, from worst to best

What’s the best crisp in Ireland? We have a final answer.

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Jun 14th 2013, 1:03 PM