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Michael Cussen attempts to field a high ball. Cathal Noonan/INPHO

GAA Congress has voted to introduce the 'mark' in Gaelic football

The motion just received the two-thirds majority required.

GAELIC FOOTBALLERS WILL be able to call a ‘mark’ when catching a ball cleanly from a kick out after Congress voted to approve the motion this afternoon.

The new rule means that players will have the option of taking a free kick (within five seconds) or playing on immediately when a “player catches the ball cleanly from a kick-out — without it touching the ground — on or past the 45m line nearest the kick-out point.”

The new rule will be introduced without a trial and was supported by 68% of attendees, just above the two-thirds majority required.

If a player indicates he wishes to take a mark, he will be allowed up to five seconds to take the kick. If the player delays for longer than five seconds, the referee will cancel the mark and play will restart with a throw-ball.

Once a mark is called, the opposing team must retreat 10m and, if they impede the player who called the mark, the referee will move the ball forward 13m.

If a player chooses to play on, they cannot be challenged until they carry the ball four consecutive steps or holds the ball for longer than the time needed to make four step and makes “one act of kicking, hand passing, bouncing or toe-tapping the ball.”

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25 Comments
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    Mute Tom Feehan
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    Jan 28th 2014, 7:45 AM

    Get rid of lukaku, he ain’t doin nothin for ya!

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    Mute Jonny Murphy
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    Jan 28th 2014, 7:51 AM

    Well there’s a jynx if ever I seen one

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    Mute Bad Ass Baracus
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    Jan 28th 2014, 11:58 AM

    I swapped lukaku for adebyor…… Seems to be getting the goals lately.

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    Mute Dub Cell
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    Jan 28th 2014, 8:07 AM

    There’s no point having 2 arsenal players in your defence. 1 player is always sufficient cover.

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    Mute Jonathan Murray
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    Jan 28th 2014, 10:25 AM

    Mata straight in there – captain

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    Mute Patrick
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    Jan 28th 2014, 10:33 AM

    Did the exact same thing Jonathan

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    Mute Brian Guilfoyle
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    Jan 28th 2014, 11:16 AM

    I’d be shocked if he starts! Match fitness will be shocking

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    Mute Jonathan Murray
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    Jan 28th 2014, 11:47 AM

    If he’s not starting, it dosnt Mata

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    Mute Chris Mansfield
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    Jan 28th 2014, 2:01 PM

    Assuming Cabaye goes to PSG anyone have any ideas about a replacement.

    Henderson seems the best bet in the price range, but I wonder if anyone joining in the transfer window might present a greater opportunity.

    Zaha now he’s on loan at Cardiff?

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    Mute Steven Shine
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    Jan 28th 2014, 11:57 AM

    What premiership are you watching Tom feehan??, lukaku is in the top 6 point scoring strikers this year with 9 goals and he’s good value.

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    Mute Tom Feehan
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    Jan 28th 2014, 5:54 PM

    He’s not good value at all. He had a great run for a while and he will come good again but he’s just hanging in there getting the odd assist every week. There are far better options to have than him for the time being, adaboyer, wellbeck , Rodriguez ?

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    Mute Tom Feehan
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    Jan 28th 2014, 9:46 PM

    What was that????

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