Tipp LGFA receive clarification over quarter final fixture

By Shane Brophy

Tipperary Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) have been provided with an explanation as to the reasoning for their All-Ireland Senior quarter final against Meath being fixed for around the same time as the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship semi-final involving their hurling counterparts at Croke Park on Sunday, 6th July.

When the fixture was first mooted for a 5.15pm start on Sunday week with the hurling at 4.00pm, Tipperary LGFA sought an immediate review of the fixture, aware of the clash with the hurlers at Croke Park, and possibly the senior camogie team who could also be on that bill earlier in the day.

A response from the LGFA stated: "After the draw was completed, to determine the fixtures, we consider many factors which would include if we have received a request from any of the Counties involved, or any camogie fixtures which are also scheduled for that weekend if any county has dual players involved.

“As Meath have dual players, and as Meath Camogie were already scheduled to play in the All-Ireland Intermediate Camogie Quarter-final on Saturday 5th July (v Down), our Meath v Tipperary game was scheduled for Sunday to facilitate dual players.

“As you can appreciate, we are all moving toward 2027 and the amalgamation of the codes, the explanation above gives a very fair response compared to much of what has happened in the past with dual players.

“The second factor is the contract the LGFA have with TG4. There is an obligation on TG4 to broadcast live, all 4 of the All-Ireland Quarter Finals. They also have a contract for the All-Ireland Minor Championship. The Minor All Ireland Championship is scheduled for 1.30pm on Sunday 6th.”

The first three quarter finals are scheduled for Saturday, 5th July, live on TG4, with Dublin v Cork at 1.15pm; Galway v Waterford at 3.15pm, and Kerry v Kildare at 7.30pm.

Tipperary LGFA admitted they were “disappointed there is a fixture clash) but the management and players are focused on the task of taking on Meath in an Senior All Ireland Quarter final, a place we have not seen since 1980 and proud day for everyone associated with Tipperary Ladies Football.