GAA re-instate League semi-finals

GAA CHIEFS have re-instated semi-finals in next season’s Division One of the National Hurling and Football Leagues.

In recent seasons the top two counties qualified directly for the NFL and NHL top flight deciders. However concerns were raised the system often made the final series of games in both competitions meaningless. This season, Cork and Galway had qualified for the hurling showpiece before they were scheduled to meet in the last round proper.

The decision to revert to the old format received full backing at a Central Council meeting on Saturday. But the revamp will not apply in the lower divisions.

It was confirmed that agreement between the GPA and the GAA will be finalised in coming weeks. Meanwhile Wicklow GAA officials are investigating ugly scenes which marred a South East League final between Tinahely and Avoca.