Cooney: we must stop pitch invasion

LEINSTER’S celebrations in Croke Park on Saturday following their landmark Heineken Cup victory served as a further reminder to the GAA about the requirement to keep the playing area free of spectators.

The GAA is considering an approach to the Government to introduce legislation that would outlaw the practice, according to new President Christy Cooney.

“We need to educate our fan base about not coming on to the field after a match – that it’s really a protection for themselves, to ensure that there are no serious accidents of any nature,’’ he commented. “We’re going to consider talking to the Government about legislation stopping people from coming on to the field. We’re probably one of the few countries that hasn’t it in law, but it’s something we will consider over time.”

Cooney was impressed by the razzmatazz which preceded the start of the rugby game – the musical build-up and the strategic placing of team flags in areas where the respective groups of supporters were allocated tickets. “It’s something we always look at – as to how we best put on our games – and it’s something we will continue to look at into the future.”

Closer to home, he delighted in the hurling extravaganza which was the Allianz National Hurling League final in Thurles on Sunday, which saw Kilkenny overcome Tipperary after extra time. “I thought the game was absolutely outstanding, played with great passion and pride by both counties and with abandon in some respects. It brought out the true value of what our game of hurling is all about. It’s about wanting to win, wanting to ‘achieve’ and playing for the pride of their county irrespective of the competition.’’

The closeness – and quality – of the game was a complete contrast to the third round meeting of the counties in Nowlan Park, but that didn’t surprise Cooney. “The one thing we always know about Tipperary is that they have fierce pride in their county jersey. And, particularly playing in front of their home supporters in Semple Stadium, they were always going to be up for it.

“Kilkenny want to win every game they play, so it had the ingredients to be an outstanding game. I was absolutely thrilled and it augurs well for the hurling championship.’’

Responding to comments about the attendance (17,087) being lower than anticipated – especially with Tipperary playing at home – he said while they would have preferred a bigger crowd, overall they were ‘pleased.’ “Our attendances in general for the National League have been up, so we have nothing to complain about. There were probably championship games on in a lot of counties, so all in all we would have been pleased.’’

Looking to the future, Cooney didn’t rule out the possibility of the format being changed, saying: “If we believe there is a need for change we will come forward with some proposals that we will put to Central Council. But it’s not something we will do overnight.”