GAA President Christy Cooney
The historic “Tom Semple‘s Field” (Semple Stadium) here in Thurles, is expected to host both the Division 1 and Division 2 Allianz National Hurling league finals on May 2nd next, after GAA President Christy Cooney confirmed that Division 1 table toppers would not be gifted a home advantage.
Last year’s final was observed by many commentators to be a ‘home venue’ for Tipperary after their high-scoring Division 1 league decider against Kilkenny was played in front of a Semple Stadium capacity crowd.
However, much like Dublin footballers being afforded a ‘home venue’ at Croke Park, the decision to fix the game in Thurles was in line with current thinking.
The last five league finals have been hosted at this historic stadium here in Thurles, together with 22 of the 39 finals (including replays), which have taken place since 1975.
GAA President Christy Cooney confirmed that a home venue for either Cork or Galway for the final has not as yet been suggested within GAA headquarters.
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