What is this 'choke tackle' that has suddenly become a buzz word in the GAA?

The tackle, which is borrowed from rugby, usually occurs when two defenders hold up and wrap tightly an attacker, almost as if choking him in an effort to squeeze the ball out of his grasp. It has become increasingly popular in Gaelic football, especially since the introduction of the black card rule.

Louth manager Aidan O' Rourke claimed earlier this year that All-Ireland champions Dublin have got around the new rule by cynically 'bear hugging' former All Star midfielder Paddy Keenan in an O'Byrne Cup game. Now, it would seem, Donegal have got in on the act after there were instances of it in yesterday's Ulster SFC quarter-final against Derry.

No doubt we'll hear a lot more about this latest form of play in the months ahead. Tweet

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