Skehan says reworked rule has created dangerous loophole

Hurling’s most decorated goalkeeper has called on GAA chiefs to rectify the glaring rule anomaly which will continue to allow the striking of frees from inside the 20m line.

The reworked rule, passed into law yesterday by Central Council, legislates specifically for penalties and 20m frees. The anomaly allows players taking frees from outside the 20m line to throw the ball forward before making connection. And since the likes of Cork goalkeeper Anthony Nash and Kilkenny’s TJ Reid are hugely proficient in gaining up to seven metres between lifting and striking, frees awarded just outside the 20m line will be struck as close as 14m to goal.

Kilkenny’s nine-time All-Ireland winner (three as a sub) Noel Skehan pleaded with Croke Park to correct the loophole, adding that safety concerns must again override the rule book. GAA officials were yesterday remaining tightlipped on the issue.