To those who think, or perhaps wish, that America will suffer an ignominious defeat in Afghanistan: pull up a chair, sit back and watch us avenge the loss of our countrymen.

BBC: The war on terror: A key turning point?

That left India 277-6 at lunch and staring down the barrel of an ignominious defeat, before captain Dhoni joined Tendulkar at the crease and set about sparing some of his team's blushes.

BBC: South Africa move to brink of Test win over India

Dupuy's conversion made it 14-0 and left Bath staring at an ignominious defeat, but coach Steve Meehan must have found some inspirational words at half-time because his side was transformed after the break.

BBC: Leicester 24-10 Bath

It may still end in an ignominious defeat for Mr Obama, as it did for Bill Clinton's efforts in the mid-1990s, though that could be a blessing in disguise for those genuinely concerned about the need to control costs.

ECONOMIST: The Senate starts to debate health reform, at long last

"I'm sad to be leaving, " said Bradford-bound Potter, as he bids to avoid a Grand Final defeat for the second successive year - and an ignominious exit at the hands of Saints' great rivals Wigan.

BBC: Saints' Mick Potter keen to exit with Grand Final win