Fan fears over crowd violence at GAA matches: 'It's becoming far too prevalent'
Fans have expressed their concerns over an apparent rise in violent incidents around big GAA Championship games.
The past two weekends have seen rival supporters clash in incidents both inside and outside GAA grounds. A video went viral on social media following the Ulster final earlier this month which showed Armagh and Donegal fans fighting inside a Co Monaghan garage shortly after the game had finished.
A Garda spokesperson said on the incident: "Gardaí received a report of a Public Order incident involving a large group of people outside a premises at Coolshannagh, Monaghan, at approximately 10:15pm on 10th May, 2025.
"On arrival, there was no group at the scene. No arrests were made. Enquiries ongoing."
The following day Louth ended a 68-year wait for provincial success as they defeated their neighbours Meath by 3-14 to 1-18 at Croke Park. Video footage emerged shortly after the game showing rival fans clashing on Hill 16.
And in the weekend gone, a fight broke out between Limerick and Cork fans following the Munster Championship clash between the sides at the TUS Gaelic Grounds in Limerick. Gardaí also confirmed they were looking into an incident of criminal damage
"Gardaí and emergency services attended the scene of an incident of criminal damage that occurred on Thomas Street, Limerick city on Sunday 18th May 2025 at approximately 8pm," Garda statement said.
"A flare was set off at a commercial premises. Enquiries are ongoing."
A number of people have taken to social media to express their concern over the recent incidents. One wrote: "This is becoming far too prevalent in GAA, alcohol the main cause."
Someone else said: "Always a few idiots around who just go to cause trouble with little or no interest in the game."
One other commented: "It's a disgrace. It's only a match. Ban them, only way to stop it. Thugs."
Another post read: "This is unacceptable behaviour in any society...!"
"The fans are becoming soccer hooligans, shame on ye.... turns me off GAA," stated someone else.
Has crowd violence become a problem at GAA matches? Let us know in the comments section below
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