Tiernan Kelly and three other players hit with ban following tunnel brawl

Kelly has been given a 24-week ban.

At full time between Armagh and Galway in last weekend's quarter final, a brawl broke out as the players headed towards the tunnel. Rian O'Neill had just completed Armagh's fantastic comeback by kicking a wonder-score at the death, to send the game into extra time. However, the collision between the players quickly got out of control, and even substitutes, backroom staff and members outside of the panel got involved. The main talking point however, was the apparent attempted eye gouging of Damien Comer, by Tiernan Kelly. The Orchard player is currently injured and not in the official panel, but put his hands on the Galway forward's face, which caused the ruckus to escalate. The Central Competitions Control Committee have reviewed the footage and issued a six month ban to Kelly for his involvement in the melee. Three other players have been recommended a one match ban, including Armagh’s Conor Turbitt and Blaine Hughes, and Galway’s Cathal Sweeney.

Armagh also received confirmation that Greg McCabe has seen his one-match ban for his sending off in normal time against Galway doubled as he was dismissed in February’s Division 1 win over Tyrone in the Athletic Grounds.

This is a repeat Category III infraction and should he accept the penalty, he will miss the first two games of next year’s Allianz Football League.

Galway and Armagh captains, Sean Kelly and Aidan Nugent were given red cards following the altercation at full time, however it is expected that these will be appealed by their respective counties.