It is probably fair to say the AIG Fenway Hurling Classic is a bizarre spectacle to behold. The condensed pitch, rolling subs and players eagerness for a shemozzle ensures a highly unique viewer experience.
The players seem to get some enjoyment out of it too, although in the case of Galway and Clare's final match-up, events prior to the game extracted some bemused looks on the their faces.
The national anthem started, and what sounded very much like the ususal Amhrán na bhFiann was actually an 'extended remix' of sorts which caught the players off guard..
Fair play to her, she gave it socks, we'd just never heard that version before and some of the Clare and Galway lads clearly hadn't either.
It wasn't only the players who found the anthem curious, fans too noticed the noteworthy procession, including the flag choice which very, very, very much looked like an Italian flag.
Ladies and gentlemen! The green, white & RED Italian flag making its appearance for the Irish National Anthem at the #FenwayHurlingClassic. #hurling #Galway #FenwayClassic pic.twitter.com/XOH5A6wS9H
— Matt Taylor (@MattyTaylor73) November 19, 2017
Why is the Italy flag 🇮🇹 being flown at the Fenway classic 🤷♀️#gaabeo #TG4 #fenwayclassic #hurling #hurlingisitalian
— Damien O'Connor (@damooco) November 19, 2017
Is anyone watching the hurling in Fenway on TG4. Pretty sure she started singing the National Anthem yesterday 😂
— Green Scouser (@Green_Scouser) November 19, 2017
As for the game itself, Galway saw off Dublin 55-39 and Clare beat Tipperary 50-45. Both sides advanced to the final where Clare won 50-33. The competition has proved controversial as many feel the GAA's resources could be better applied elsewhere. In saying that the concept is to be appreciated, as anything that will develop the reach of the game is to be encouraged.
