The latest disciplinary controversy to beset the GAA is likely to come to an abrupt conclusion. Tipperary minor John Boland was shown a red card in a club match two weeks ago but the decision was overturned in the referee's report last Monday after an investigation into the match by the North Tipperary board.

That action, however, runs counter to GAA president Seán McCague's ruling of last week to the effect that a red card can only be rescinded on the basis of video evidence. This reversed the loophole whereby referees' reports could be open to interpretation.

Sources in Croke Park yesterday were adamant that the red card, shown in the minor championship match between Toomevara and Kilruane, will stand.

"The president's ruling applies in this case. The referee's report was discussed six days after the ruling.

"Once the ruling was handed down, the decision is taken. The president's view last week was that this sort of thing is going to have to stop and you can take it that that's certainly the way it's going to be. His record in this context suggests as much."

It is believed that McCague has already communicated this to North Tipperary Board, who were meeting last night to consider the issue.