GAELIC GAMES:AS EXPECTED, the Cork-Kerry replay goes ahead at Croke Park next Sunday at 2pm as part of a triple bill with the other All-Ireland semi-final, Tyrone-Wexford, and preceded by the minor match between Meath and Tyrone.

The fixture had been expected despite some complaints from the counties that a venue in Munster would be more convenient given the distances involved in travelling to Dublin. Speaking on RTÉ radio's News at One, however, GAA president Nickey Brennan defended the decision announced yesterday by the Central Competitions Control Committee.

"It's an All-Ireland semi-final. Its status decrees that it should be played in Croke Park. We appreciate the distance in travelling but clearly from the point of view of the teams they were willing and anxious to play the game in Croke Park because in the latter stages of the championship inter-county teams want to play there.

"We also have to bear in mind the overall picture of the other games on next Sunday and ensure the maximum publicity for our association. We felt that in bringing patrons back they were getting exceptional value for money on a three-game programme."

Brennan declined to be drawn on whether there was a break-even figure for attendances at headquarters but said the association was happy with championship revenues to date.

"This year Croke Park is certainly holding its own and we feel it's the appropriate place to play competitions that are at the concluding stages of the championship."

Meanwhile, a London camogie club recorded the first Gaelic games entry in the Guinness Book of Records at the weekend. Croydon camogie club played a match non-stop for just over 24 hours to set the new standard.

The two teams of 12 players and three substitutes began their attempt at 10am on Saturday morning at the Emerald GAA Club in Ruislip in London. They finished just after 10am on Sunday morning. The club, which celebrated its 22nd birthday this year, came up with the idea as a fund-raiser and to promote the game.

2008 All-Ireland football semi-finals

Saturday

Minor (replay) Mayo v Kerry, Cusack Park, Ennis Throw-in: 3.30pm

Sunday

Minor Tyrone v Meath, Croke Park Throw-in: 12.15pm

Senior (replay) Cork v Kerry, Croke Park Throw-in: 2pm

Senior Wexford v Tyrone, Croke Park Throw-in: 4pm