Mullane should not escape censure

I READ with interest Jim O’Sullivan’s article (Irish Examiner Tuesday July 1), titled — Mullane: two fingers bad, three goals good.

The article is largely based on the comments of Christy Cooney, Munster Council Chairman, and Waterford manager, Justin McCarthy.

All who were privileged to witness the magnificent spectacle at Thurles, on Sunday 29 June, would unreservedly agree that John Mullane’s performance enhanced the occasion.

However, all would not agree that Mullane’s two-fingered gesture to the Cork supporters should go totally unpunished.

If indeed it does, then a precedent has been set. For over half-a-century I have witnessed individual players excel on Munster, Ulster and All-Ireland hurling final days.

Until last Sunday, fortunately, I was saved the indignity of an obscene gesture being directed at spectators.

I can’t understand how a man of Justin McCarthy’s standing in hurling could under any circumstances attempt to justify such offensive behaviour.

With reference to John Mullane, Justin is quoted as saying: “He got three goals and two points and I would have to give him the highest praise.”

Fair enough, but does that entitle him to bring such an auspicious GAA occasion into disrepute?

I think not, and I disagree with Mr Cooney who it seems would like to brush the obscenity under the carpet.

Pat Nolan,

16 Dunamallaght Road,

Ballycastle,

Co Antrim