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.”