Kelly backs curtain-raiser call

GAA President Sean Kelly has defended the Association's decision to play its new competition finals as curtain-raisers to All-Ireland semi-finals.

In the last two weeks, both the second-tier Christy Ring and third-tier Nicky Rackard hurling finals have been staged at Croke Park.

That decision drew criticism, most notably from Galway minor manager Mattie Murphy, as the All-Ireland minor semi-finals were moved from Croke Park out to venues in Portlaoise and Kilkenny.

The second-tier Tommy Murphy Cup football final will also be held at headquarters on Sunday week, with Tipperary and Wexford contesting the final.

Kelly, who helped initiate the new competitions for the lower-ranked counties, feels every county should have its day at Croke Park - whatever their standard.

"I have no apologies to make for bringing the Nicky Rackard, Christy Ring and Tommy Murphy Cups to Croke Park. It was and still is the right thing to do," said the Kerryman.

"Players who were never given a hope before, were never given any reaction and who often weren't given any encouragement in their own counties, now have something to aim for.

"Many people in the country would have said there was no hurling in Louth. Now they are aware of it."