THE FOGARTY FORUM: GAA risking elitist tag if mismatches continue

When it comes to making a big decision, the GAA look for a trend first.

Nothing else will do. A one-season anomaly is treated for what it is. But should it be repeated? Well, then an eyebrow is arched.

Three years ago, the four provincial winners all failed to reach the All-Ireland semi-finals. Croke Park’s jets remained cool. They were right. Two years on and the eight champions since have all reached the last four of the championship.