Cooney 'extremely disappointed' by pitch invasion

GAA President Christy Cooney has expressed his disappointment over the mass pitch invasion which prevented the trophy presentation for yesterday's All-Ireland SHC final at Croke Park taking place on the pitch, as planned.

Just as the final preparations were being made for the pitch presentation, thousands of spectators broke past stewards and streamed onto the pitch leaving officials with little option but to move the presentation to its regular spot in the Hogan Stand, where victorious Kilkenny captain Michael Fennelly received the Liam MacCarthy Cup.

Indeed, Cooney and Fennelly both asked for spectators to 'stop pushing' as the pitch quickly became thronged.

In a statement released this afternoon, the GAA said that they had planned 'a spectacular on field post-match trophy presentation to entertain all 82,106 people present at the game.'

It continued: "The GAA worked closely with Gardaí in devising plans in an effort to ensure the safety of our players, supporters and match officials and attempting to allow everyone, young and old, to enjoy the post-match celebrations in a risk free environment. But following the pitch invasion yesterday, these celebrations could not take place."

Giving his take on yesterday's events, Cooney said: "Despite all pre-match communications, press publicity and big-screen appeals, it was extremely disappointing to see our plans were not realised.

"Even allowing for all the exuberance and joy of supporters on the day, it was disappointing to see the disregard for the safety of others amongst fans intent on getting on the pitch and ignoring safety appeals.

"Sincere thanks to Gardaí, stewards and all who played a crucial role in ensuring the contingency plan worked successfully."

The GAA reaffirmed its intention to stop pitch invasions due to health and safety concerns and yesterday "highlighted even stronger the need for this".

The Association will be working closely with Gardaí this week to review plans before the All-Ireland Football final on September 20.