An interesting congestion of sporting fixtures should have fans eagerly buying in rations of food and drink for Sunday October 10th. According to the European governing body UEFA and the FAI that date has been fixed for Ireland's final Group Eight match in their Euro 2000 qualifying campaign. Depending on how results go against Croatia on Saturday in Zagrab and in Malta next Wednesday, the final game away to Macedonia could decide Ireland's future in the competition.

Croatia's final group match against Yugoslavia is also taking place on that day. No times have yet been fixed for the matches. October 10th is also the date when the Irish rugby team face Australia at Lansdowne Road in their second match of the Rugby World Cup. Again depending on how Ireland perform in their first game against the USA, the match could have enormous significance for the side's chances. The kick-off time is 3.00 p.m.

Given the All-Ireland football finals in 1988 and 1996 each ended in a draw, the GAA have also fixed October 10th as their possible replay day for this year's final. According to Croke Park, the replay time is likely to be the same as the final proper, 3.30 p.m.

For those with pay television, Sky will also beam in the final of golf's Dunhill Cup from St Andrews.

Finally, Sonia O'Sulivan makes her return to athletics following the birth of her daughter on that same Sunday. The former world champion has committed herself to running a road race in Loughrea to kick-off her Olympic campaign.