Oisin McGrath final ends in controversy after scoreline confusion

THERE is considerable controversy surrounding the outcome of yesterday’s Oisin McGrath Cup final betweeen Omagh CBS and St Patrick’s Maghera.

Many observers in attendance at the match, including this reporter, adjudged that Omagh CBS had clinched back-to-back titles at Kildress on a scoreline of 3-10 to 3-8, even though the scoreboard read 3-9 apiece at the final whistle.

There was considerable confusion in the direct aftermath of the game when it became apparent that referee Colm McDonald had declared the game a stalemate.

Word came out that a replay had been scheduled for Monday night, but that may not transpire as Omagh CBS have the option of lodging an objection to the result.

The Kevlin Road school played brilliant football on the night with goals coming courtesy of Conor Fyffe, Aodhan Corry and Daniel McGurren, and it looked like they were home and hosted heading into the final minutes, although there was confusion about the accuracy of the scoreboard.

St Pat’s Maghera hit 2-1 without reply in injury time, including two penalty goals from Don Mulholland, and it soon emerged after the final whistle that the game, contrary to this reporter’s belief, had officially ended a draw.