Allianz warn of poorer competitions if hurling leagues restructured

THE possibility of four teams from six qualifying for the top-flight hurling division semi-finals could lead to poor leagues, say competition sponsors Allianz.

The insurance company’s Donal Bollard was reacting to reports the Allianz Hurling League could be restructured next season.

The GAA’s Hurling Development Committee (HDC) is expected to include a two-tier Division 1 comprising groups of six among their proposals.

But as semi-finals are to be introduced for Division 1 in both hurling and football next season, just two teams will fail to make the knockout stages.

“It’s not much of a competition that way,” said Bollard about the possibility.

“Mixing the two would be a better idea, grading the top four teams, then the next four and the following four making sure there is an even spread across Division 1A and 1B.

“Like it was before [between 2005 and ‘08], the semi-finals would be played between the top Division 1A and the second one in 1B and the other semi would be vice-versa.”

Bollard appreciates why the GAA have looked at revamping the competition.

“The current Division 2 has been a dead one for the likes of Clare, Limerick and Offaly. Limerick have got the bit of a boost but that division hasn’t done those hurling counties any good.”

Bollard added that Allianz are keen not to lose any momentum as sponsors next season.

“This was a super year for us, the best ever season in our sponsorship,” enthused customer relations manager Bollard. “We’re hoping for more of the same next year.”

The HDC’s proposals will be circulated to county boards over the next few weeks before being debated and voted on by Central Council at the next month’s meeting.