Paddy Tally didn't want to mention the elephant in the room but after winning a game that could have massive consequences for Down's summer, he could let his guard down.

A battling 14-man Tipperary were fully deserving of a share of the spoils with Down in their opening game of the Allianz Football League Division 3 at Clonmel Sportsfield.

John Fogarty previews Division 3 of the Allianz Football League.

Holders Tyrone reached yet another Dr McKenna Cup final with a nine points win over Down at the Athletic Grounds.

It took a mere 11 minutes of the 2020 inter-county season to throw up the first controversial incident of the new playing rules.