The International Rules Series is worth saving As 2005 draws to a close, GAA enthusiasts can reflect on what has been an action packed year. When the debate surrounding on-pitch tussles and controversial suspensions was exhausted, the Disputes Resolution Authority became the subject of much comment. It was somewhat ironic that the DRA was set up in a year when the referees' use of the red card was so common. 'Discipline' appeared to be the key word doing the rounds in the corridors of power in Croke Park during the summer. Ironically the DRA has left us with more problems to resolve than it has produced solutions. To make matters worse, the Australian International Rules players added insult to injury by highlighting once more how they can humiliate and degrade our prize possessions in the GAA without fear of appropriate reprimand or sanction. Part of the thrill in playing for Ireland is facing up to the physical challenge that the Australians present. As professional athletes, they believe that their physical prowess is greatly superior to that of the Irish and they like to illustrate this at every opportunity. This year however I believe they took it one step too far. Trying to use one's physical attributes to dominate one's opponents is understandable but trying to humiliate them is not. I would not like to see the end of the International Rules Series as a result of this upsurge in violence. Nevertheless, it is imperative that major action be taken in order to prevent the recurrence of similar scenes in the future. If suspensions imposed were to carry over and affect appearances in the AFL, then surely this would make the Australian players think twice. In the AFL a suspension is usually accompanied by a fine for the guilty party. Again, if this was to happen, the Aussies may not be so keen to see 'red'. From an Australian point of view, there was absolutely no need to become so preoccupied with the nasty elements of their play. They were by far the superior team playing football - why resort to violence? There are a number of reasons: - The hurt felt by the Aussies and the AFL after the trouncing they received from Ireland last year. They were stung into action. - They felt aggrieved that they were punished unfairly for the tackle made on Tom Kelly in the first test. Kevin Sheedy, I believe was determined to show just how physical they could become if they so desired. - It is part of the Australian 'psyche' that they will go to any lengths to prove their superiority. If the GAA and the AFL can agree to take the appropriate steps necessary and put an end to this thuggish behaviour - then it will set everything up for a cracking contest next October. That should be one series where the PR gurus will not have to go into overdrive to sell tickets. Ireland will have a new manager by then and he will have quite a job on hand if Ireland are to have revenge. We must not ignore the fact that the Australians gave Ireland a lesson on certain aspects of the game in which we expected to be superior - e.g. kick passing, shooting from distance and keeping possession. Sean Boylan appears to be favourite to take charge. Sean has given tremendous service to the GAA and I doubt if many would object to his appointment. I think Sean would relish the challenge and as a proud Meath man, he would not be phased by the prospect of taking on the physical might of the Aussies. Pete McGrath adopted a 'pure football' approach and selected players accordingly. There still needs to be the correct balance between ball winners and ball players. However, if the GAA were serious enough about winning then they may dispense with the idea of giving the job to a new manager and select the best man for the job. It is difficult for someone to take over with no previous experience of the hybrid game. We have a lot of ground to regain, never mind respect - should we not give the job to someone who has already experience of managing the international team. Someone who understands the approach of the Aussies and above all, who knows how to beat them home and away? In my opinion, Colm O'Rourke would be most suited and would command the utmost respect from the players. His man-management skills are excellent, he is very shrewd regarding tactics and his ease to approach when working with the players exudes confidence. Maybe we could see Sean and Colm team up once more - if it meant putting the Aussies in their place then I would like to see it. In the aftermath of the second match, the cries for the abolition of the International Rules Series have never been louder. I think we must learn from it, but to actually abandon the series would be a mistake. Gaelic footballers are no different than sportsmen in any other code - they strive to represent their country and view the donning of an Irish jersey as a major honour. It is unfortunate that we cannot represent our country playing our own game - Gaelic football. If we did, the games against other nations would be too one-sided and reduce it to a shambles. The games against Australia, while not exactly Gaelic are close to it. On top of that taking on and defeating these professional sportsmen demands great speed, skill and determination. Anyone who has tasted success over the Aussies has been imbued with immense satisfaction and pride. The relationship between the AFL and the GAA has been frayed at times but there appears to be a strong bond there at present. The GAA is constantly learning from the professional approach of the AFL, both on and off the field. Coaches and managers can pick up a lot on the training methods and strategies adopted over there. The GPA has also benefited through the Australian link and has been in contact with the players' body in Australia. In terms of administration and PR, Croke Park are on an upward learning curve and they continue to pick ideas from the AFL. After the debacle regarding suspensions this summer, they will want to tidy up that whole mess so that in future there are transparent and consistent procedures in place. Assuming that both associations will 'get to grips' with the problem of indiscipline, I believe next October's clash will be well worth watching. Ireland will not want to suffer the same indignation on their own holy grail - Croke Park. With so many interchanges during these games, I wonder would Brian Mc Gilligan or Mick Lyons fancy five minutes? Tweet

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