U-turn as camogie coin toss abandoned for Dublin decider match

In a U-turn, the Camogie Association, Ard Comhaile, has decided that the two teams can meet in a play-off.

Both counties had been prepared to walk away from the All-Ireland series entirely over the coin-toss issue, but have now accepted the offer of the match to decide which team progresses.

A Camogie Association statement said that the decision to hold the play-off was made to "find a solution to the impasse".

The issue arose after Dublin and Clare finished the group stage of the competition level on points. The Camogie Association has no regulation on points or goal difference and the coin toss was suggested as a solution - to much consternation in both teams.

The play-off match is set to take place this Saturday, August 1 in Semple Stadium, Thurles.

The winning team will then meet Wexford in the quarter final.

Tight

The tight scheduling means that the winners will have to play and win two matches in the space of three days if they are to progress to the semi-finals.

The clash with Wexford is due to take place on Monday, August 3.

Dublin manager Shane O'Brien said he has no idea why the play-off and quarter final have been organised in such close proximity.

"It's a big ask to request a team to play two championship matches with only one rest day in between, but we just have to prepare for the first game and whoever wins that will have to worry about the two-day turnaround," he said.

He told the Herald that there is relief that the "ludicrous coin toss" has been scrapped in favour of a play-off game.

"Whether we win lose or draw, the decision to hold a replay will be for the benefit of the game and the integrity of the game," he said.

Prior to the U-turn, Clare GAA accused the Camogie Association of showing "contempt and disdain" for players in its plan to hold a coin toss.

The county last night also confirmed it will take part in the decider match.