Calls for free tickets for supporters attending repeat of Blarney and Bride Rovers game

As Blarney and Bride Rovers ready themselves for their rematch in Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday, Cork North Central Sinn Féin TD Thomas Gould has appealed to the Cork GAA board to allow supporters of both clubs who attended the first match free access to this weekend fixture.

However, Cork County Board have poured cold water on the idea.

The clubs were involved a titanic tussle in their Co-op Superstores Cork Senior A Hurling Championship Semi-final on September 30. The game ended in a draw after 60 minutes, extra time was played and then it went to penalties.

Bride Rovers won the shootout but Blarney appealed the result as they had been ahead as the second half drew to a close but Bride Rovers sought to make a substitution at that time and had 16 players on the pitch in the play that led to them winning an equalizing free.

Blarney raised an objection with the Cork County Board and there was a full enquiry by the Competitions Control Committee last week. The committee’s decision that the game be played again was communicated to the clubs involved on Friday.

The Cork North Central TD told The Echo that it would be a ‘good faith’ decision by the County Board if it offered a complimentary ticket to supporters who attended the original match.

“The reality is that many of those who attended would be staunch supporters who will have watched their team throughout the season so far,” said Deputy Gould.

“The cost of this does add up and an additional game may be beyond their means.

“This is a very rare and unusual replay of a match. It was a great game and I’ve no doubt Saturday’s game will also be brilliant. It would be really lovely to see the GAA extend an offer of complimentary tickets to those who attended the original match.

“I fully understand that there are financial constraints within the Cork County Board however the fans are at the core of the GAA.

“It would be nice to see them acknowledged with this gesture. For one set of fans, this will be their last chance to see their team in Championship this season.

“ It would be great to ensure as many people as possible can attend.

“I want to wish both teams the best for what I’m sure will be another really enjoyable match.” 

 When the question was put to Cork County Board’s PRO, whether this was something the body was considering, the response was short. 

“No, not at all,” said Francis Kenneally.