Anthony Daly: Why is the GAA's disciplinary system hogging the headlines?

Like in anything controversial, there is always a reaction after a reaction. The disciplinary bodies need to get their houses in order but is some player going to pay a heavy price for this mess?

The coolest cut: Peter Duggan of Clare takes a sideline cut during the Munster GAA Hurling Senior Championship Final match between Limerick and Clare at FBD Semple Stadium in Thurles, Tipperary. Pic: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

I was behind the counter holding court in the pub on Wednesday evening with five locals, all either knowledgeable hurling men or just fanatical Clare supporters, before the news broke that Peter Duggan and Rory Hayes had their suspensions lifted for today’s match.

The discussion before the news arrived was forensic and invasive. Was it fair? Did the boys go over the top? Can you really be that selective around two or three incidents when all hell was breaking loose around the pitch everywhere else?