Eight ways to help ease pressure on referees

A baptism of fire is de rigueur in becoming the GAA’s national match officials manager. Nine years ago, Pat Doherty stepped into the role the day after Martin Sludden awarded Joe Sheridan that goal in the Leinster final.

Yesterday, his successor Donal Smith started the job after a weekend when the majesty of the hurling played rose above the way it was officiated.