Clare star Tony Kelly admits he could’ve been given his marching orders before half-time in yesterday’s crunch Division 1A clash against Limerick.

The All-Ireland champions were leading 0-12 to 0-8 in the 34th minute when Kelly’s hurley appeared to make contact with opponent Adam English’s face guard and cut the Limerick midfielder.

Kelly was cautioned by referee Thomas Walsh for the incident and Clare would go on to secure their first win of the league campaign on a 1-21 to 0-21 scoreline, with many having felt the Banner talisman was lucky to be on the field for the second-half.

Tony Kelly VERY Lucky that wasn't Red. pic.twitter.com/Je7D1VHxBi

— Buff Egan (@buff_egan) March 2, 2025

“Yeah, he sold me a dummy, and I committed to it,” Kelly told TG4 afterwards.

“Look, on another day, another referee could have sent you off for it. I committed to trying to get to the ball.

“In fairness, I got the benefit of the doubt from the referee on other days they could go against.”

‘A mature performance in the second half..’ @GaaClare #LIMvCLA

Smaointe Tony Kelly, Laoch na hImeartha Allianz inniu agus é tuillte go maith aige 🤩

BEO/LIVE AR @TG4TV 📺@AllianzIreland #AllianzLeagues #GAABEO pic.twitter.com/SRjnBa5KuB

— Spórt TG4 (@SportTG4) March 2, 2025

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