Semifinal venue change came as a shock, says Ward from Galway



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The decision to change the venue for Sunday’s Irish women’s soccer semifinal between Cork and Galway came as a shock to Galway defense Nicola Ward, but insists it will not negatively affect the team that day.

It was revealed on Monday that the semi-final will be played at Parnell Park, rather than the LIT Gaelic Grounds because Limerick’s senior pitchers, in preparation for the Ireland pitching final, have a training session scheduled on the field on Sunday.

The women’s soccer semifinal was originally set for Semple Stadium on November 28, but moved forward a week to accommodate several dual players from Cork, with the LIT Gaelic Grounds identified as an alternate venue.

According to a statement from the Ladies Gaelic Football Association, the Limerick County Board informed them last Thursday that it would no longer be in a position to facilitate play if Limerick defeated Galway in their All-Ireland SHC semi-final, a game that Los Treaty men won 0-27 to 0-24.

Limerick County Board Chairman John Cregan told RTÉ Sport this morning that the decision to host the ladies’ match at the LIT Gaelic Grounds was made “on the basis that it would not be required by the senior pitching team. of Limerick “.

Speaking at the launch of Lidl’s ‘Game Day’ video, Ward insisted that while logistical changes are made, players are continuing their business as usual.

“We were ready to drive to Limerick, now we have to plan and go in a different direction. We have played there in league finals before so we are very used to it,” the 23-year-old told RTÉ Sport.

It’s an all-Ireland semi-final and I’d be happy to play anywhere

“I know at first it’s a bit shocking that it has to be changed, but we have to move on.

“This year, the championship is like no other.

“At the end of the day, the Limerick pitchers are also in an all-Ireland final. That’s their field. From my perspective, I’m happy enough to play at Parnell Park. It’s an all-Ireland semi-final and I would be happy to play. anywhere.

“We are certainly not going to let them affect us that day.”

The LGFA statement added that the association wishes to “categorically state that we fully understand Limerick’s desire to use its own venue for training purposes next Sunday.”

“Additionally, we have enjoyed an excellent relationship with Limerick GAA in the past, and our 2019 All-Ireland Senior Club final was played at the LIT Gaelic Grounds, and we were warmly welcomed there and treated very well.

“Also, we are looking forward to traveling to the LIT Gaelic Grounds for future games.

“We are grateful to the Dublin County Board for making Parnell Park available for the semi-final next Sunday on short notice, and this is not the first time a semi-final of the TG4 All-Ireland Senior Championship has been played in Dublin.”



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