Davy Fitzgerald has created a persona that puts him at odds with opposing fans

Sir,

But I ask where are the roots of the problem?

Yahoos, langers and the demon drink have all been targeted as the problem, and the cause of the abuse suffered by the Clare goalkeeper, Davy Fitzgerald in the recent Munster Hurling Championship game against Cork. Tanked up yahoos picking on the easy target, the goalkeeper, suggests Mr Kelly.

But what about poor Davy? This is the guy that sprints onto the pitch, breaks a hurley off the crossbar and then proceeds to jump around the place screaming and shouting and beating his chest in some tribal effort to motivate his team mates and, presumably, the Clare supporters.

This type of behaviour does not go unnoticed by the opposing fans, and from their point of view could be construed as being intimidatory.

In the recent All-Ireland Hurling qualifier between Clare and Limerick we were again treated to a display of Davy’s so called “passion”.

Davy goaded and taunted the Limerick forwards with his constant screaming and roaring. Passionate and admirable behaviour indeed.

Last year’s All-star award is another case in point. Many people, myself included, felt that Donal Óg Cusack deserved the award, however the selection panel didn’t agree and chose Davy.

It’s a game of opinions and we have to accept the panel were entitled to their opinion.

But Davy felt he had to speak out and justify his selection instead of gracefully accepting his award and let his performances speak for themselves.

Davy Fitz is a great goalkeeper, with a mighty puck out and wonderful shot stopping ability.

No one can doubt his ability or his immense contribution to Clare hurling, in fact hurling in general.

However, I believe Davy has created a persona for himself that puts him at odds with opposing fans.

I don’t condone abusive behaviour, and I don’t condone the abuse of any player in any sporting arena.

I do feel that Davy has contributed to creating this atmosphere for himself.

Pádraig Power,

Castleredmond,

Midleton,

Co Cork