Clare goalkeeper Davy Fitzgerald says he pulled out of the race for the Galway manager's job because he wants to beat Christy Ring's record of 64 championship appearances. Fitzgerald, one of six candidates nominated for the Galway position, has played 60 senior hurling championship games with Clare since his debut against Limerick in 1990.

The 35-year-old, who withdrew at Tuesday night's meeting of Galway Hurling Board, says he would love to coach an intercounty team in the future but for now he wanted to concentrate on playing.

"The record is a factor. I am four away from Christy Ring's record and feel I have a good chance of reaching it. I have a couple of injury issues which I need to get looked after during the winter, and I am really looking forward to next season.

His former Clare manager, Ger Loughnane, remains the firm favourite for the Galway job after 30 of 35 speakers spoke in favour of Loughnane at Tuesday night's meeting. Matt Murphy and Seán Silke did not withdraw on the night but Portumna coach Seán Treacy has indicated he will withdraw to make way for Loughnane, but that he would stand if there was an election.

Meanwhile, Galway women's football manager PJ Fahy is confident a decision will be taken to replay their TG4 All-Ireland semi-final against Armagh when Central Council meet tonight.

Galway have continued training this week as they hope that the match will be refixed for this Saturday - the rescheduled replay date. Galway have disputed the outcome of Saturday's semi-final as a late shot from Barbara Hannon was signalled wide. Galway say that video footage clearly showed that it was a point. "All we are looking for here is a bit of fair play. A mistake happened, but . . . we hope that it can be replayed," said Fahy.