Bumper crowd expected for Galway’s league tie with Armagh under lights

Well, guess who thinks it’s a possibility: none other than multiple All-Ireland winning manager and Gaelic Football Rules Review Chairman Jim Gavin.

After the GAA’s Master Fixtures Plan was rubber-stamped last week, Gavin speculated that the repeat of this year’s All-Ireland Final between Galway and Armagh in the opening round of the National League had the potential to pack the Salthill venue.

Of course, Gavin has something of a vested interest as it will mark the first occasion when Gaelic football’s radical shake up will come under the competitive spotlight.

And speaking of lights, the game between Galway and Armagh will also mark the opening fixture to be staged under the newly installed floodlights at Pearse Stadium.

Galway County Chairman Paul Bellew confirmed this week that the floodlights have already been erected and apart from some “wiring” next month will be ready to roll for Galway’s first round league tie on Saturday, January 25, at 5pm.

Bellew revealed that GAA President Jarlath Burns will be performing the official turning on of the lights on that same evening, and that Galway will be embarking on a marketing campaign to entice big numbers to the game.

“It’s timely as well given that the revenue spread is being increased from next year’s leagues. The more supporters you get in, the more money you get back,” said Bellew.

On the following afternoon, Sunday, January 26, Galway hurlers – back under the management of Micheál Donoghue – will host Tipperary in the opening round of the National League. Again, the lights will be in use as the game is scheduled for a 3:45pm start.