Anthony Daly: Has loved his time in charge of hurlers.

DUBLIN GAA chiefs have expressed disappointment that the county’s All-Ireland U21 hurling championship semi-final against Antrim has been fixed for Newry on Saturday and not Semple Stadium.

Dublin chairman Andy Kettle last night confirmed that the board wrote to Croke Park requesting that both — or neither — semi-finals be fixed for the Thurles venue, which will now host the other semi-final between Galway and Limerick as well as next month’s final.

He explained: “We wrote to the Central Competitions Control Committee (CCCC) asking that either both semi-finals be played at Semple Stadium — or at a different venue.

“Our feeling was that by playing one of the semis at Semple the winners would have an unfair advantage in the final.

“If you look at the semi-finals of other major competitions like the minors and seniors, both semis are played on the same pitch — Croke Park. We are disappointed that the game isn’t in Thurles at it gives both teams an even shot when they get to the final. However, we fully accept the CCCC’s decision.”

Meanwhile, Anthony Daly has intimated he is set to take charge of Dublin senior hurlers for a fourth season. But Daly who has one year left in his agreement, explained he needs to iron out a couple of issues before giving the green light.

“I would be lying if I said I wasn’t awful tempted to keep going now and to build on it.

“But there are just a few things that I need to look at.

“But I have to say, I love it. Nothing would entice you to stay on if it was a labour, but for me, it’s a labour of love.”