England’s men secured a convincing 4-1 win against Germany in the FIH Pro League in Dublin.
James Gall opened the scoring for England when he turned in a Thomas Sorsby cross just after half-time.
England, who had been beaten 4-1 by Germany in their opening game on Wednesday before a shootout win against Belgium on Thursday, controlled proceedings as they held their opponents at bay.
They extended their lead when Henry Croft controlled a Ben Fox cross and powered home a fierce shot, before Sam Hooper drove a low effort into the net from a penalty corner.
Nick Bandurak added England’s fourth when he collected a Zachary Wallace pass with his back to goal before turning and chipping the Germany keeper.
Germany, who have lost three of their four games of the campaign in Dublin, managed a late consolation goal through Benedikt Schwarzhaupt’s powerful shot.
Natalie Cassidy opened up about her home life and whether she plans to have more children or get married to partner Marc Humphreys.
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Natalie Cassidy says many still expect her to have another child(Image: BBC)
Natalie Cassidy has addressed ongoing speculation about whether she plans to have another child, admitting that the questions have followed her for years.
In a new interview with Candis magazine, the EastEnders star revealed that while people often ask if she might have a “late baby,” that isn’t on her agenda for now.
“People keep asking,” said Natalie. “Probably because mum had me late. But I’ve got two healthy girls, and, to be honest, I’m looking forward to when Marc and I can have some time on our own—the honeymoon period we’ve never had.”
Natalie, best known for her role as Sonia Fowler on the BBC soap, is a mother to two daughters. Eliza, 15, is from her relationship with transport manager Adam Cottrell, while her youngest, Joanie, 9, is with her partner Marc Humphreys.
When asked about family life, Natalie spoke candidly about balancing motherhood with her long-running career in the public eye.
She joked about Eliza’s teenage years: “No, we went through that when she was 12 and 13. Horrendous. But she’s come out the other side. I think she’s quite proud of me now.”
Meanwhile, Joanie isn’t a fan of having a famous mum. “If we’re out and someone recognises me, she gets a bit grumpy. But it’s part of the job. I’ve never understood actors being rude to the public.”
Natalie has been engaged to cameraman Marc Humphreys since 2014 and credits him with helping her feel grounded and happy: “We’re friends and we laugh all the time. When he’s off working, I miss him. We like being together. He’s made me find who I am, the real me.”
The couple have postponed wedding plans for years, but she says the event will happen “sooner or later.”
“We met ten years ago. In October, when Marc turned 40, it would have been the perfect time,” she said. “But I’ve been too busy with the book. It’ll happen sooner or later. Marc’s the one I want to grow old with.”
Cross-border fighting between Thailand and Cambodia has shown no signs of easing, after US President Donald Trump announced the two sides would halt attacks. The violence has killed dozens and forced mass displacement.
Social media star, Brielle ‘Brie’ Bird, has tragically lost her battle with cancer, aged nine, after her favourite pop star, Ariana Grande, sent her a message
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Social media sensation, Brielle ‘Brie’ Bird, has tragically died, aged nine(Image: Instagram/ @briestrongerthancancer)
Social media sensation, Brielle ‘Brie’ Bird, has tragically died, aged nine, following her long battle with cancer.
The young influencer, whose Instagram handle was @briestrongerthancancer, documented her life online for her thousands of fans around the world as she courageously fought against a recurring form of neuroblastoma cancer – which predominantly affects children under five – for five years.
Brie was initially diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in 2020 before going into remission two years later. However, sadly, it returned in January 2024 and the much-loved star was moved into a hospice in July to receive end-of-life care where she was surrounded by her adoring family.
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Despite their heartbreak, Brie’s loved ones did everything they could to make her last days special. In August, the little girl, who had amassed a huge fan base with her candid cancer journey, was overwhelmed to receive a surprise package from one of her favourite singers, Ariana Grande, who sent Brie several presents.
The delighted influencer posted a video of herself unboxing the gifts, many of which were inspired by Wickedand Glinda, Ariana’s character in the smash-hit film.
The Eternal Sunshine star singer sent her young fan a collection of plush Squishmallows, nail polish, perfume, two Wicked dolls and other treats.
Thanking the star for her kindness, a tearful Brie said: “Thank you so, so, so, so much, Ariana Grande. I love everything in the package that you got, especially the Squishmallows and everything else.”
The video concluded with a surprise message from Ariana, who said that she heard about Brie’s love of Wicked from her mum. Telling Brie how inspirational she was, she said: “I’ve seen your videos and I think you are the most amazing, most inspiring little light beam in this universe. You’re just so incredible, so thank you for being you.
“I’m sending you so much love and many, many, many virtual hugs. I hope this makes you smile, and I’ll speak to you soon. Love you.”
Tragically, Brie died just weeks later as her mum, Kendra, shared with her daughter’s 650,000 followers: “You are the miracle! Your purpose on earth was fulfilled, and it was the most sacred privilege to escort you home,” she wrote on Friday.
“You brought people to Christ, you showed the world that God is good, and your light shined to all corners of the earth. We love you for eternity!”
The young social media star’s family went on to say they will “never stop” sharing her story, adding, “Please come visit us often. Your bedroom door is always open, and we’ll leave the playroom light on.
“You did it Brielle, you did everything with grace! I can only imagine the incredible reunion, and I’m so jealous; but I know you ran straight to Jesus.” the statement continued, concluding: “Thank you for being an inspiration to so many.”
Almost two decades after auditioning in front of Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Cheryl, an iconic X Factor duo have announced details of a new performance leaving fans stunned
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Contestants queue for X Factor auditions (stock)(Image: Getty Images)
Music lovers have expressed their shock after discovering a former X Factor duo are still performing together – around 17 years since their iconic audition on the ITV show. Back in 2008, Ant and Seb performed Peter Andre’s ‘Mysterious Girl’ in front of judges, Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Cheryl.
Describing themselves as a blend of Usher and Rick Astley at the time, the pair were soon ridiculed by the judges who burst into laughter at their voices. Simon asked them afterwards: “‘Where do I start? I mean, it’s more like Ant and Deaf.” To which a frustrated Seb protested: “We know we’re good enough, Simon. No disrespect, but we feel we’re pretty good.”
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On Friday, the duo took to TikTok to announce they will be performing live once more this afternoon (December 13).
“Ant and Seb performing live at Luton Point, Saturday 13th December at 4pm,” they penned in a caption, adding the concert is free and for charity.
They also said in a video recorded from their Travelodge hotel: “If you have ever wanted to see Ant and Seb perform live, be there at the [Central] Square. Looking forward to seeing you.”
Writing in response, one TikTok user declared: “First it was Oasis. Then Radiohead. Now Ant and Seb are back. 2025 will go down in history as the greatest year in music history.”
A second person added in shock: “No way. I’ve been looking for these two for years.” A third commented: “We have waited so long for their return.” While a fourth TikTok user exclaimed: “OMG how did I miss this?”
Promoting the show on Facebook, Luton Point stated: “Come down to see Ant and Seb, the unforgettable X Factor brothers whose iconic audition has been watched millions of times.
“They will be performing live here at the Luton Point Christmas Concert. The duo behind one of the show’s most memorable moments return with music, fun and their brand new comedy charity Christmas single Sprinkle It. Don’t miss this iconic performance.”
In a separate video this week, Ant and Seb performed a snippet of Backstreet Boys’ ‘Everybody (Backstreet’s Back)’ to confirm their return.
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“Ant and Seb are back so turn your notifications on because something big is about to happen,” Seb declared.
Kerry Katona has revealed her Christmas plans with her Celebs Go Dating partner Paolo Margaglione, who she met on the reality dating show earlier this year, as their romance blossoms
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Kerry Katona gushes over first Christmas with beau Paolo in big step for couple
Kerry Katona couldn’t hide her happiness as she gushed over her plans for a cosy first Christmas with beau Paolo Margaglione. Kerry and Paolo met on Celebs Go Dating earlier this year.
The TV star appeared reluctant before meeting Paolo for a date, but it’s clear she’s glad she took the plunge as she’s fallen head over heels for the businessman and their romance has gone from strength to strength. As the festive period is well and truly upon us, the couple are reaching an important milestone; their first Christmas together as a couple.
Writing in her new! column this week, Kerry gushed over her plans with Paolo as the couple plan to celebrate with all their children around the table. Kerry is mum to Molly, Heidi, Lilly-Sue, Max and Dylan Jorge while Paolo is the proud dad of two daughters.
She said: “This year I just want to be home in my Christmas PJs watching festive films. Normally I’m in a dressing room for panto! Molly and Lilly come home on December 21, so I’ll have all my five children with me – then Paolo’s two children on Christmas Day and night. It’s going to be lovely.
“There’ll be nine of us, plus four dogs – we might as well throw a giraffe in there while we’re at it! Don’t get me wrong, I do like to spoil my kids, but it’s not about what’s under the tree for me, it’s about the memories made.”
While this year will look different in some ways in the Katona household – with the new addition of Paolo and his daughters – some things will remain the same. Kerry spilled on a Christmas tradition in her house which her children, admittedly, hate.
She spilled: “There’s a tradition my kids hate, which is they’re not allowed to open their presents until I’ve got a bin bag in my hand! Otherwise, I’ve got to walk around and get all the wrapping paper in the bin bag – it just annoys me and everything gets lost. So before I’ve even seen what they’ve got the wrapping paper is in the bin bag!
“One of the kids even did a drawing of me once with a bin bag on Christmas morning, picking up the wrapping paper. It looked like I was throwing their presents in the bin – I wasn’t!”
Paolo and Kerry met earlier this year, while taking part in Celebs Go Dating. Their love story unfolded in front of viewers eyes and, off camera since the series wrapped, has continued to blossom. Earlier this year, Kerry gushed over their blended family in her new! column.
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She said: “This week I’ve been super busy touring, but I did have a day with Paolo and the kids – my lot and his two girls – which was lovely. I love spending time with his girls; it’s such a nice feeling to have little ones around again. We’ve blended our families together seamlessly and everything fits into place perfectly.”
