Tipp schedule hampered by postponement but schedule takes shape ahead of League
Tipperary will play Laois and Dublin in preparation for the National Hurling League
There was huge frustration in Pairc Shilean, Templemore last Saturday afternoon after a late, late call saw the senior hurling challenge game in aid of Mary’s Meals between Tipperary and Clare postponed.
Both sets of managements, players, and a sizeable chunk of supporters were on site when the call was made, less than an hour before the re-fixed throw-in time of 2.30 pm, and it left many annoyed with the timing of the call; particularly when the game had been pushed forward from the originally fixed time of 6 pm due to an incoming cold snap.
It was decided on the Friday night to play the game earlier and despite Tipperary being happy to play the game on the frosty pitch in Templemore, Clare boss Brian Lohan decided against it and refused after a short inspection.
Liam Cahill and his players were visibly frustrated with the outcome and even though the game was called by Lohan on safety grounds, the Tipperary team went on to complete a full 90-minute training session on the pitch.
While it was an opportunity missed for the players and management to prepare for the forthcoming National League, the biggest loser on the day was the charity - Mary’s Meals - whom the proceeds of the game were in aid, and most of the frustration was because of that factor with the reigning All-Ireland champions coming to town likely to attract a decent crowd.
In fairness to Tipp GAA, they were fast to pick up the pieces and a challenge game against Laois was organised quickly that evening, once again in aid of Mary’s Meals and the game will take place in Pairc Shilean, Templemore on Tuesday, January 14th.
No doubt, Tipperary probably needed the game more than Clare, and with time ticking down to the first round against Galway on January 26th in Salthill, it was a disappointing outcome.
Alas, the efforts will continue with that game against Laois quickly being followed by a challenge game against Dublin that is due to be played on Saturday, January 18th with a time and venue yet to be confirmed.