An Armagh GAA club has released a statement in support of a team member at the centre of an alleged eye-gouging incident during the county’s All-Ireland quarter-final defeat to Galway on Sunday.
Clann Eireann and Armagh forward Tiernan Kelly was involved in the controversial brawl which erupted at the end of normal time in Croke Park – an incident which saw two players sent off at the beginning of the re-start.
However, an alleged eye-gouging incident has been heavily debated and criticised across the country since Sunday’s epic encounter.
Social media has been awash with video and public commentary.
And tonight (Tuesday), the Lurgan club – reigning county senior champions – have issued a statement offering their backing to a player who “has been, and always will be, a great ambassador for our club”.
“As a club, the well-being of our playing members is of the utmost importance to us,” the statement read.
“As a club, and a family, we will support and protect Tiernan and his family from those who don’t know him.
“The vilification of Tiernan on social media over the last few days has been both unjust and unfair. Tiernan has been, and always will be, a great ambassador for our club.
“Anyone who knows him, will know the dedication and hard work he puts into both his club and county, along with the time he spends coaching and encouraging our young Gaels.
“His dedication to the GAA, both on the field and behind the scenes, has been nothing short of amazing. One moment does NOT define a man.
“The GAA will have its due process regarding the issue. We would ask people to let this process take place before making judgement.”
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