COURTROOM CONTROVERSY

On the eve of Ulster Championship season, JACK MADDEN says an overhaul of the GAA’s disciplinary system is needed if “a summer of controversy and farce” is to be avoided

Rivalry. What does it mean? There is a fair share of hatred, and an abundance of history. The importance of winning, the pain of losing all magnified with the power of a telescope. Earn your stripes or watch your enemy earn theirs. Stand up and be the hunter or you yourself will be the one that is hunted. You can stand and watch and analyse and talk. Or you can be the one that everyone talks about. This year’s Ulster Championship is being served with an added degree of spice. Last week, Tyrone, Monaghan, Derry, Donegal, and Armagh were all talked up as contenders.

The apple has fallen from the Orchard tree as far as provincial success goes, but now Cavan have a crack at the Tír Chonaill men that will open the door to an escape from the clutches of the Tailteann Cup. The Breffni men will draw on their 2020 title, with Conor Madden’s late goal securing their first Ulster of the millennium. Derry have been talked up as underdogs and dark horses so much it almost eradicates that tag completely, but they are a force and will undoubtedly cause Tyrone issues.

The Red Hand are Ulster and All-Ireland champions. Little more needs to be said to highlight their credentials. Donegal have flattered to deceive in recent years, struggling to kick on from the provincial glory of 2018 and 2019 under current boss Declan Bonner. This year feels like make or break for the man…