Conal Keaney slams GAA for ‘crazy’ throw-in times for All-Ireland SHC quarter-finals

The timing of the two quarter-finals – Clare and Wexford starts at 3.15 in Semple Stadium – has been the subject of much debate this week and Keaney cannot get his head around the GAA’s decision-making.

The Ballyboden St Enda’s clubman insists hurling must be put front and centre in a prime-time slot rather than pandering to other sports.

“No, it’s crazy,” Keaney said when asked if these start times were maximising the promotion of hurling.

“For anyone that has their own kids going to their own games that morning or work or whatever it is, they’re going to miss the game.

“I can’t remember the last time there was a game on that early on a Saturday. They’re obviously trying to adapt to other sports that are happening but we just need to worry about our own game and worry about ourselves.

“If people want to watch other sports, that’s fine. But at least concentrate on what we’re doing and what we do is really, really good.

“So don’t be trying to chop and change all the time to suit rugby, soccer or whatever else is happening.

“Having a throw-in time so early is definitely a problem and it’s a massive problem for supporters. That means that you’re going to have to leave at nine or 10 in the morning to get down, your whole day is gone.

“Why not have one or both of them on Saturday night and allow for that build-up? These are going to be two cracking games, no doubt, but we’re certainly not helping supporters getting to the games at these times.”