Kelly defends sin-binning

The President of the GAA, Sean Kelly, yesterday defended the introduction of the sin bin as part of the new experimental rules in football.

Mr Kelly warned against "premature conclusions" and backed the new rules, following a wave of criticism from players and managers after a weekend of football that saw a steady flow of 10-minute dismissals.

The Association chief reiterated that the sin bin would punish players who engaged in persistent fouling.

He added that the rules would be reviewed before the National Football League, beginning on the first weekend of next month, but stressed they would not be dumped.

He said: "There will always be teething problems, but I am convinced the new rules are forcing players who got used to fouling to adapt their style of play."