Tipp chairman slams ‘unfounded rumours’

TIPPERARY chairman Donal Shanahan last night criticised those responsible for spreading “unfounded rumours” about members of the county senior hurling side.

Mr Shanahan was angered by comments and suggestions which have been circulating in the Premier County after the All-Ireland SHC quarter-final loss to Galway.

He told delegates at last night’s County Board meeting that such: “rumours have no basis of foundation, are absolutely untrue and it seems their only purpose is to damage the reputation of some of our players.”

He admitted that there had been much comment and debate within the county about the game and the performance of players and selectors and noted that “many of these comments are genuine and expressed for the overall good of hurling in Tipperary.”

However, he warned of a more sinister undercurrent which had developed over the past fortnight.

“Are the people that spread these rumours, genuine Tipperary supporters?,” he questioned.

“I wonder what their agenda is by making personalised allegations about the role of certain players in the week prior to the Galway game.

“I am asking here tonight and appealing to those who are spreading these unfounded rumours to stop and think of the damage, hurt and pain they maybe causing to the families of these players.

“All members of the panel and management made a huge effort during the past eight months on behalf of the county to bring an All-Ireland to Tipperary.

“Their commitment and dedication to training and preparation for the championship was thorough and pain-staking and no effort was spared to achieve their goal. It is most disappointing that some people should embrace such low standards to cause damage and unrest to Tipperary hurling.”