Limerick boss John Kiely has launched a staunch defence of Nickie Quaid following last Saturday’s All-Ireland semi-final.
The Limerick goalkeeper was accused of gamesmanship after medical treatment was called for him in the 25th minute of the game, immediately after Galway had taken a six-point lead, though Kiely insisted that Quaid “wasn’t feeling well” and that the umpires brought this to the referee’s attention.
Once play restarted, Limerick outscored their opponents 0-6 to 0-1 up to half-time and went on to win the game comfortably, with Galway boss Henry Shefflin saying that the incident broke his side’s momentum.
But Kiely blasted: “I think it’s absolutely ridiculous that we’re talking about this two days after two All-Ireland semi-finals. I think it’s utterly laughable, to be quite honest with you. It’s unbelievable. I think it’s unbelievable.
“Of course, obviously, it’s a focus that has been driven by a few individuals but I find it absolutely crazy that we’re talking about this two days after an All-Ireland semi-final.”
When questioned as to whether Quaid wears contact lenses and if that was where the issue arose, Kiely replied: “I’m not privy to Nickie’s medical history. Can you imagine me going to Nickie, ‘What’s your sight like, Nickie?’ Would you seriously think I’d be doing such a thing like that? Absolutely not.
“Who called in the doctor to Nickie? James Owens, the referee. So I’d say go and ask James Owens.
“Why did James Owens (do that)? Because his umpire expressed concern to James Owens about Nickie, because Nickie wasn’t feeling well. That’s what happened. Fact.
“Obviously these people that are commenting online don’t know the facts so I think the facts are very important.”
