Hurling referees must apply the rules consistently

I sympathise greatly with Kilkenny’s Michael Rice on the horrific injury he suffered as a result of downright dangerous play in last Sunday’s All Ireland Hurling Semi-Final.

However, if you sow the wind you will reap the whirlwind, and Kilkenny have been sowing the wind over recent years.

Brian Cody’s and others’ advocation of the “manly game” have led to a palpable increase in undisciplined, rough and reckless play. This is contrary to the GAA rules, but referees have been increasingly conditioned to tolerate it.

It has coarsened the game and if allowed to continue will do serious damage to a great field game in which skill and speed should be the dominant characteristics. With a few exceptions, hurling commentators have failed to face up to this obvious trend. The GAA high command need to take a firm stand and insist on the rules being applied consistently at all levels.

John O’Connor

Youghal

Co Cork