A Co Laois Judge has taken aim at the GAA following an assault case arising from a brawl at an underage match came before her in court.

Judge Catherine Staines convicted a man and his son of assaulting a juvenile player during an under-16 hurling match involving the Rosenallis and Clonaslee GAA clubs.

It is alleged that up to 70 people were involved in the incident which occurred on April 20th, 2017. The 55 year-old man and his 15-year-old son had pleaded not guilty to assaulting the youth on the date in question.

A 16-year-old Rosenallis player had to receive hospital treatment after he was struck on the head with a hurl and the youth who committed the offence pleaded guilty and was dealt with by way of a juvenile caution.

However, from the same incident, the father and son were charged with assault after a number of witnesses testified to what allegedly happened.

In convicting both the father and son, the Leinster Express reports Judge Staines as stating: "If this is the level the GAA has deteriorated to, it should just give up.

"There is far too much pressure being put on young people by their parents, the example being set by the parents is absolutely appalling.

"There were 70 people on that pitch roaring and shouting, this does not reflect well on either team and there is clearly no respect for your opponent or sportsmanship."

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