Making excuses for hurler’s action

How dare Diarmuid O’Flynn make excuses for the outrageous action of a Tipperary hurler In the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Semi-Final between Kilkenny and Tipperary last Sunday (Irish Examiner, Aug 21).

The player in question could and should have been red-carded on at least two occasions for foul strokes that have no place on the hurling field. Quite obviously, you did not read John Bannon’s comments on Monday.

I just cannot understand the thinking behind his comments, particularly as he says himself, he is a committed hurling man.

I suspect that his comments would be quite different if he had to spend a night in hospital with a hand so badly broken up, it might have gone through a turnip pulper.

I see that the Tipperary player in question has apologised to the Tipperary supporters for the Munster champions’ rather woeful display on Sunday.

He should also apologise for his own carry-on and, of course, to Michael Rice who will now not be able to play in the All Ireland final.

I hope that Tipperary will concentrate more on hurling in the future and then they might not have to wait for another ten years for their next “one-in-a-row” Senior Hurling All-Ireland victory.

Liam Burke

Ballyfoyle

Co Kilkenny