Joe Cooney, the greatest Galway hurler of the past 20 years, has retired from the intercounty scene after 15 seasons. He will continue to play with his club Sarsfields whom he inspired to back-to-back All-Ireland titles in the early 1990s.

Thirty-six this year, he had remained on the county panel in recent years to assist in the development of a new team and despite his years, made telling contributions in both of the most recent championships. Galway manager in that period Matt Murphy yesterday paid tribute to Cooney.

"He won everything that could be won and was one of the great stylists in the game. Although he was a class apart, his modesty was an abiding quality. He never put on airs and graces and was as happy presenting medals to under12s as taking part in high-profile events. He was always willing to make a contribution."

Cooney won minor, under-21 and senior All-Irelands. He also won two club titles, National League and Railway Cup medals. Individually he won the Hurler of the Year accolade in 1987 and several All Star awards.

Meanwhile, the All Stars trip to Dubai began with the flight from Dublin yesterday. The 1999 football selection will play last year's counterparts in an exhibition match on Friday.

The playing contingent had shrunk to 28 by the time of travelling. Kerry's Michael Francis Russell had already withdrawn on Monday evening and he was joined just before departure yesterday by Cork half back Ciaran O'Sullivan. Given the visa requirements, there was no time to process applications for replacements.

The exhibition match will feature 14 a side.

Venues for next month's All-Ireland club hurling semi-finals have been announced. Holders and Connacht champions Athenry will face Ulster's Dunloy in Parnell Park, Dublin, whereas Munster and Clare representatives Sixmilebridge play Kilkenny and Leinster champions GraigueBallycallan in Thurles. Both matches will be played on February 25th.