Galway reach Connacht final as Sligo withdraw due to Covid cases

Most of us suspected there would be disruptions to this year's championship, but this is a big one.

Galway look set to advance to the Connacht Senior Football Championship final after the Covid-affected Sligo panel withdrew from their semi-final. A statement from Sligo GAA reads:

'Sligo GAA have taken the tough decision to withdraw from this weekend’s Connacht SFC semi-final versus Galway. 'Paul Taylor and his management team along with the panel of 32 players have been working together since September. Due to the unforeseen circumstances of players testing positive for Covid-19 and other players deemed as close contacts, makes it impossible for Sligo to fulfil the fixture. 'The county board executive along with the players and management are extremely upset at having to make this decision. The players themselves are hugely disappointed at not having the option of a re-fixture and feel the outcome has been forced on them, whilst understanding that in these unusual times it is not possible to take part this coming weekend. 'All affected by Covid-19 findings are following the requisite HSE guidelines and we are glad to report doing well at this time. 'Sligo GAA have informed GAA officials at Croke Park and Connacht GAA of this regrettable but correct decision.'

We are awaiting a statement from the GAA on this, but should the withdrawal be confirmed Galway would advance to the final without playing a game. The other semi-final sees Mayo, who defeated Leitrim in the quarter final, play Roscommon this Sunday.

---