New rule clarified as helmet issue comes to a head

GAA chiefs yesterday clarified an issue relating to the mandatory wearing of helmets at senior inter-county level which arose in Sunday’s Kehoe Cup match between Roscommon and Wicklow, by insisting helmets have to be worn at all times during games.

The problem was highlighted in the game in Arklow when Wicklow midfielder Jonathan O’Neill removed his helmet when taking frees and 65s, scoring three points in the process, as Wicklow were narrowly defeated 1-10 to 0-12.

Roscommon players protested at O’Neill’s decision, reasoning it contravened the ruling brought in since January 1 that helmets were compulsory for all senior inter-county players. Yet Dublin referee Gearóid McGrath allowed him to continue striking placed balls without his helmet.