Fans believe that the GAA having to put tickets on general sale for Sunday's hurling final is an indictment of the cost of living crisis here. While we're so used to All-Ireland tickets being labelled 'gold dust' in the run-up, it appears that doesn't apply to this weekend's showdown between champions Limerick and Kilkenny.
The cheapest tickets going are in the Nally Stand for €50 but that's only the beginning of the expenses that tot up for fans who come up to Dublin for the big occasion. The cost of fuel is increasing at an evermore alarming rate while accommodation in Dublin has never been pricier.
This is not to mention the price of food and drink at GAA headquarters being far above what you'd typically pay elsewhere. This theme was touched on by many fans who reacted to the association's shock move by pointing out that when you think about it, it's not all that shocking really, reports the Irish Mirror.
Read more: Limerick vs Kilkenny: Cats backed to cause upset in All-Ireland hurling final
One person vented: "It's no wonder it's not a sell-out! €90 is way too much in these times. Plus Croke Park is price gouging on their food and drink. Why can't it be at a price that's competitive with pubs in the area instead of squeezing every last cent from the fans?"
While Liam said: "At the price of tickets, hotel rooms and pints in the hospitality sector in Dublin they'd be better off staying at home rather than rip-off Dublin."
Lastly, someone else asked: "Unprecedented. Are Kilkenny fans not supporting their team?"
Another factor may be this being the first final to take place in July which has led to complaints in some quarters that the inter-county season is now far too rushed rather than allowing anticipation to build over time.
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