January could be ‘mark’ date

GAA’s Central Council will today decide on when the mark will be introduced to Gaelic football after a motion was passed at Congress last month.

Although playing rules committee chairman Jarlath Burns wanted to see the rule implemented immediately, he now accepts it will require a bedding-in time and may now come in on January 1. The GPA endorsed the proposal but several players have already queried Congress’ decision to give the mark the thumbs-up without a trial.

Central Council are also expected to deal with the successful Antrim motion, which from next year will see the Christy Ring Cup winners rewarded with a Leinster quarter-final spot.