Late date a ‘turn off for Cork’

LIVE television coverage was a key factor in influencing the GAA’s decision to fix next Saturday’s All-Ireland SFC round four qualifier between Cork and Down in Croke Park for a 6pm throw-in — but the decision has been criticised by Cork County Board chairman Jerry O’Sullivan, who believes it will be a deterrent for their supporters to travel to the game.

The repeat of last year’s All-Ireland final is set to be a double-header at the GAA’s headquarters with the meeting of Kildare and Derry taking place beforehand at 4pm.

The clash between Cork and Down is to be broadcast live on TV3 and it is believed that the 6pm throw-in time was a compromise between GAA fixture-makers and officials from the television station.