O'Sullivan criticises former stars' support of Galvin
Paul Galvin would relish the chance to banish the memories of Fitzgerald Stadium in June by playing a part in Kerry's bid to retain the Sam Maguire
Friday December 12 2008
THE former Kerry stars who rallied to defend Paul Galvin last summer have been rapped on the knuckles by outgoing County Secretary Eamonn O'Sullivan.
O'Sullivan does not name names but, in his report for Kerry's convention next Monday night says: "During the summer everyone seemed to be a spokesman for Paul or for the board, when a small bit of restraint may have been more appropriate."
O'Sullivan stresses that the only "official" statements from Kerry County Board on the matter were issued on June 17 and after the DRA decision.
"What happened on June 15 in Killarney should not have happened -- that was never the issue," O'Sullivan says.
He stresses the board only fought Galvin's case because they thought his original suspension -- later halved on appeal -- far too harsh.
And he alleges that "a careful read" of same (the DRA judgement) will confirm that procedures and decisions in relation to Paul Galvin -- based on the referee's report -- were less than fair to the player."
"While nothing justifies Paul's actions in that game v Clare, it is only fair to point out that on a number of occasions during the game the two linesmen and the fourth official were made aware what was going on."
He says referee Paddy Russell was "fair and accurate" in his match report.
The county's finances are healthy once again, showing a big surplus of €762,466 thanks to the sale of five-year tickets and fundraising by a new supporters group.
Kerry's hurlers will have home advantage to Mayo in the first round of the Christy Ring Cup next summer after the draws for hurling's secondary championships were released yesterday.
Christy Ring Cup Rd 1 -- Down v Derry; Kerry v Mayo; Westmeath v Kildare; Wicklow v Carlow.
Nicky Rackard Cup Rd 1 -- Roscommon v Fingal; Armagh v London; Sligo v Meath; Louth v Monaghan.
Lory Meagher Cup Rd 1 -- Warwickshire v Longford; Fermanagh v Leitrim; Tyrone v Non Ards; Donegal v Cavan.
- Cliona Foley
