Losing some ‘Star’ quality

IF Kieran Donaghy were to leave Armagh to join up with Jack O’Connor in Kerry, then that would be a massive blow to the Orchard county. Reports from the Armagh players are that ‘Star’ has brought something different to training with his background in basketball adding a new dimension to movement and handling. It seemed like he would continue in the role in 2022, but the call of your own county – if O’Connor gets over the line – may prove too good to turn down. Armagh’s attack has really been taking shape in recent years, and Donaghy added to that in 2021. If he goes, they will feel it.
NIALL MCCOY

Adams to assist Antrim

THERE will, of course, be a bit of uncertainty about Gearoid Adams’ role with Antrim GAA after he was recently appointed the county’s first director of football. It’s one of those jobs that people maybe won’t get a feel for until the man himself kicks into action. However, on the face of it, I think it’s a great move by the Saffron county and one that should be applauded. One of his main briefs is to help with the transition of players from minor to senior, and if Antrim are stronger for it then all the better. It’s no secret that Antrim’s structures require a lot of work to catch up on other counties, and this seems like a good move to address some of the issues. Basically Neal Peden (hurling) and Gearoid Adams (football) are now tasked with improving their codes in the county – and the more of those people involved the better. It seems a no-brainer.
NIALL MCCOY

Formats for success

WE ARE in week two of the Tyrone celebrations so God help all of the Red Hand neighbours who have to continue to grit our teeth and smile to hide our inner jealousy.
Would it be sour grapes to point out that the Red Hands won the All-Ireland in a straight knockout season? Or is there an argument to say that more underdog counties would have a shot at getting to the All-Ireland final if the competition remained a four to five game event?
The GAA is currently awaiting the returns on a survey about potential changes to the GAA championship. There is a chance that a champions league style format to come in so that more meaningful games could happen. Any debate or conversation about championship format comes down to two things: straight knockout gets your more excitement, league formats are for deciding which team is consistently the best.
RONAN SCOTT