Probe into South Tipp underage melee

South Tipperary Bord na nÓg are expected to investigate an U16 hurling semi-final, which was abandoned due to violence over the weekend.

Tipperary’s Mid West Radio yesterday reported there were unruly scenes during the second half of the game between Ballingarry and St Mary’s, Clonmel in Kilsheelan on Sunday.

St Mary’s had been leading when the game descended into chaos. As well as players and mentors, some of the crowd are believed to have become embroiled in a mass melee, prompting the referee to call a halt to the match.

The underage divisional board are awaiting the referee’s report but it is already anticipated both clubs will be hit with significant fines while suspensions could also be issued. This year has seen the further development of the Respect initiative at under-age level with players now expected to shake hands with all their starting opponents prior to throw-in.

The episode is a disappointment for the South Tipperary Bord na nÓg. Only last month they received a letter from the mother of a nine-year-old Moyle Rovers players commending a 12-year-old Carrick Davins opponent on showing sensitivity towards him during a game.

The letter was published on the GAA website.