Loughnane’s Munster plea

FORMER Clare All-Ireland-winning manager Ger Loughnane last night launched an impassioned defence of the Munster championships and warned that any plans to abolish the competition would result in the GAA “losing part of its soul”.

Speaking at the official launch of this year’s Munster senior championships in Mallow, Loughnane urged county representatives present to resist plans to introduce a Champions League-style system to the inter-county senior scene.

“There is a big move within the GAA from certain sections to go for a Champions League-style system. I don’t agree with it. I wouldn’t like to see that happening and losing what we have. I’m telling you, if you go to any other system, you will never ever repeat the feeling the players and supporters get from that rivalry that exists between counties in the Munster championship. We cannot downgrade it in any way. Other provincial championships are not as important as the Munster championship. In respect of all the great figures that have gone before, fight with all your might to hold on to the greatest provincial championship in the country.