Words: Phillip Cummins

When Laois take on Carlow in Dr. Cullen Park on Friday 28th June, they will do so in the first Friday fixture arranged by the organization in 10 years. In the past, the GAA had been reluctant to stage games on weekdays as not only did it take away from the amateur character organization, but it then had presented obstacles, in terms of players arranging for time off work for traveling to matches and any pre match training warm ups.

Another exciting development will be the first match at Derry’s excellent new facilities at Owenbeg, which is a huge boost to the county.

There’s no doubt that the GAA have made courageous decisions in the past without shying away from the inevitable ensuing storm: Drink sponsorship, drink served in Croke Park, Rule 42 (the changing of which allowed soccer and rugby to be played in Croke Park).

Could regular Friday fixtures, on straight after work, be the next development?

All-Ireland SFC Qualifiers, Round One
Friday 28th June: Carlow v Laois, Dr Cullen Park, 19.45
Saturday 29th June: Longford v Limerick, Pearse Park; Galway v Tipperary, Pearse Stadium, both 19.00
Sunday 30th June: Armagh v Wicklow, Athletic Grounds, 15.00, Derry v Sligo, Owenbeg, 17.00.
To be confirmed: Offaly v Tyrone, Tullamore, Westmeath v Fermanagh, Cusack Park, Louth v Antrim, Drogheda.