SAM PRENDERGAST has been compared to Johnny Sexton after demonstrating a shared “greatest asset as a threat”.

Writing for the Irish Independent, former Ireland out-half Tony Ward argued that the 21-year-old is showing signs of filling the Sexton void.

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Leinster starlet Prendergast made his senior international debut in Ireland’s narrow 22-19 win over Argentina last Friday in Dublin.

He was introduced for Jack Crowley, who has taken on the role of first choice No10 since Johnny Sexton retired after the 2023 World Cup.

The Munster star had crossed over for a try as Andy Farrell‘s men raced into a 22-9 half-time lead against the Pumas.

However, they went scoreless for the second period and had to cling on for victory as the South Americans rallied in the second-half.

While they did hold on for the win to bounce back from the previous week’s defeat to the All Blacks, Tony Ward was critical of the performance.

However, he did reserve praise for Prendergast and fellow debutant Thomas Clarkson.

The 70-year-old wrote: “The lineout was again iffy, the scrum so so, although in his limited time on the field Thomas Clarkson looked a real possibility going forward.

“As with Jamie Osborne and Sam Prendergast, only with experience swimming at the deep end from the off, in at least one of the final two games, can Andy Farrell, Simon Easterby and Co assess their real worth to the here and now – and more importantly the Six Nations in the new year.

“Neither midfield replacement had time to make their mark but Prendergast, like Clarkson on his debut, looked comfortable in the game-linking slot.”

There is a lot of hype surrounding Prendergast, with Ward feeding into this by comparing an element of his skillset to Johnny Sexton.

He added: “It is that aspect more than anything that draws favourable comparison with Jonathan Sexton.

“Sexton’s greatest asset as a threat to the opposition was his willingness to take the ball where others feared to tread and then by way of timing and quality of pass open gaps close in and wider out.

“It’s very early days yet but certainly signs are of a similar tactical mindset in Prendergast.”

Ireland will conclude their Autumn Nations Series with games against Fiji and Australia – with the former the next visitors to the Aviva Stadium this Saturday.

While praising Sam Prendergast, Ward said that Jack Crowley will remain the man to dislodge at out-half.

However, he expects the Kildare-native to be given the chance to stake his claim for the jersey against the Fijians.

“Crowley had a solid first half and is still the number one No 10 in my book.

“Perhaps the concluding two games will present evidence to the contrary.

“We can expect a balanced mix of youth and experience for the Fijians next up. Putting that line-up together will be no easy task.”

THE HSE has issued an urgent warning over taking antibiotics for viral infections as it can “cause you harm”.

The health warning highlights the risks for European Antibiotic Awareness Day.

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Antibiotics are a type of medication used to treat bacterial infections.

They work by either killing bacteria or inhibiting their growth, which helps the body’s immune system to eliminate the infection.

Antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections but not against viral infections, such as the common cold or flu.

Misuse or overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, making infections harder to treat in the future.

The HSE took to X, formerly known as twitter, to share the warning.

They said: “Today is European Antibiotic Awareness Day.

“Antibiotics are used to treat or prevent some types of bacterial infection.

“Antibiotics do not work for viral infections such as colds and flu, and most coughs.

“Taking antibiotics when you do not need them can cause you harm.”

Taking antibiotics when you have a viral infection can disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in your gut. 

This can lead to digestive issues, such as diarrhea, and increase the risk of infections like Clostridium difficile.

It can also cause other side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and rashes which may even worsen the illness you are already experiencing.

When experiencing a viral infection, there are several steps you can take to help manage your symptoms: 

• Rest: Give your body time to heal by getting plenty of rest
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and broths to stay hydrated
• Over-the-Counter Medications: pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and alleviate aches
• Avoid Spreading the Virus: Practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently to avoid spreading the virus
• Consult a Healthcare Professional: If symptoms worsen, you should seek advice from your GP

This comes after the HSE issued a message about a condition that you might notice in your legs, which “needs to be treated quickly.”

Blood clot alert

A blood clot, also known as thrombosis, is a clump of blood that forms in a blood vessel – and you may not show any symptoms.

The HSE took to X, formerly Twitter, to warn Irish people over the serious condition that can be fatal if the signs aren’t acted upon.

They wrote: “A blood clot (thrombosis) is a clump of blood that forms in a blood vessel.

“Blood clots can be very serious and need to be treated quickly.

“Staying healthy and active can help prevent them.”

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