Griffin calls time on Banner career

TONY GRIFFIN has shocked Clare GAA by announcing his retirement from intercounty hurling at 28 years of age.

The Ballyea clubman has cited work commitments as part of the reason for his decision but significantly, the former All Star forward also voiced his dissatisfaction with team manager Mike McNamara.

“Based on this year’s experiences, I do not have sufficient confidence in the current management structure and I cannot dedicate myself to something I do not fully believe in,” said Griffin.

Meanwhile, Athenry set up an All-Ireland senior club camogie final with Cashel in two weeks following their respective semi-final victories yesterday.

It is over 30 years since the Galway club claimed the Bill Carroll trophy and they will be meeting a Tipperary outfit who picked up their only All-Ireland in 2007.

The Galway women had little difficulty overcoming Loughgiel in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe, by 1-15 to 0-3 as captain Thérèse Maher grabbed 1-3. Cashel had to come from behind before pulling off a memorable 1-14 to 2-7 win over first time semi-finalists Oulart-the- Ballagh in Wexford.