And we did have rain last week, and after that rain, we had a couple of very beautiful days.

NPR: Beijing Preps For Opening Of Olympics

Somewhat ironically, U2's "Beautiful Day" came blaring through the tannoy as heavy rain pounded down on the Ravenhill pitch and the sea of flags, scarves and hats in all corners of the ground created a colourful backdrop for what everyone hoped was going to be a very special European Friday night occasion.

BBC: Ulster restore pride in white jersey

Driving rain and a swirling wind had ensured that this was no example of the beautiful game, but Rangers manager Walter Smith will like the look of the way they managed to grind out the three points needed to maintain their challenge at the top of the Scottish Premier League.

BBC: Hamilton Accies 1-3 Rangers

Back home now in the beautiful village of Childrey, part of the Lambourn "valley of the racehorse", Fitzgerald bemoans heavy summer rain which last July led to his home being flooded - the sand bags are out again.

BBC: Fitzgerald feels lucky after fall