Stats don't lie - O'Neill

Disciplinary Task Force Chairman Liam O'Neill has praised referees for their good work in implementing the GAA's experimental rules over the weekend, as the first comprehensive statistics were made available.

The statistics were compiled by freelance journalist Coilin Duffy, following a survey of referees officiating in all four provinces at the weekend.

The statistics reveal that of the 24 senior intercounty games played, not one red card was produced and cynical fouling was dramatically reduced under the new system.

A total of 85 yellow cards were produced, an average of 3.54 per game.

O'Neill has welcomed the sensible approach adopted by the players and officials.

"We got great co-operation from the referees, who attended numerous seminars in great numbers," he said.

"We'd like to back that support, as often some referees are hugely underestimated.

"It went well and was administered in a professional manner in the best sense of that word. It just shows how well they prepare normally.

"It's clear too be seen that there was a definite challenge for them and that they responded 100 percent."

O'Neill also thanked the players and management teams who made the effort to adopt the new system swiftly.

"The players and managers also gave 100 percent and made a great effort to play the game as it's meant to be played - without fouls.

"The weekend proved Gaelic football without fouls is a magnificent game. We want to actively support the skilful player."

One game failed to produce a yellow card - Meath official David Coldrick issued a total of 11 black cards in the O'Byrne Cup game at Newbridge which saw Kildare account for Wexford.

Coldrick was wired up for the game by RTE News, who showed footage in their bulletins later in the evening of the referee chatting to both the Kildare and Wexford players for black card infractions.

Of one concern to many of the referees surveyed was what many perceived as a grey area in the rules.

The number of black books issued per game ranged from one in the Clare v IT Tralee Waterford Crystal Cup clash at Meelick to a maximum of 12, and there was some confusion over whether or not a 'ticking system' still applies for some infractions.

Under the new rules 'pushing an opponent with the hand(s)' and 'charging an opponent' are still punished, but the offences are only noted as a foul written as 'P'.

O'Neill confirming that Referees Co-Ordinator Pierce Freaney is working on a new system for noting infractions.

"There is a ref's card being produced to show how to do that," he said.

"Work is being done at the moment on a referees' card by Pierce Freaney to facilitate the process."

Overall the overriding mood among referees towards the new rules was one of satisfaction with one top-ranking referee issuing a warning to players that, 'it simply doesn't pay to foul.'

Another added that, 'it's a learning curve for everyone.'

The experimental rules will once again be under the microscope next weekend, with 32 inter-county games down for decision.