Forward-looking GAA hit red mist

Proposals for the future shape of the GAA's intercounty football competitions are set to be officially launched this evening, but yet more scars were added to the association's image over the weekend when a number of club championship matches were marred by a series of red cards, brawls and off-the-ball incidents.

Derry champions Bellaghy had three men sent off in their Ulster football semi-final loss to Enniskillen Gaels at Clones - a game which at times resembled a fight club.

The elbow, the boot and the head butt all became methods of play and resulted in the ultimate sanctions being handed out to Bellaghy right wing forward Paul Diamond (53rd minute), his brother and left-corner back Peter Diamond two minutes later, and substitute Cathal Scullion during injury time.

There were reportedly no serious injuries, but the Ulster Council is expected to carry out a full investigation on the evidence of the referee's report before Enniskillen take on champions Crossmaglen in the final.

Down in Aughrim, Na Fianna were unfortunate to lose Senan Connell during their defeat of Wicklow champions Rathnew, but they can't be excused for the involvement in a mindless brawl which broke out amongst the majority of those on the field shortly before the end. In this case a few players got off the bench to join in.

Mayo champions Crossmolina also lost their county forward Kieran McDonald deep into added time in the first half of the Connacht club football semi-final win over Killererin in Tuam. He was named the culprit for an offthe-ball incident some three minutes into injury-time of the first period which left his marker, Ollie Wilson, on his back.