Probe under way after F&W Division Two match abandoned

AN INVESTIGATION into the circumstances that led to the abandonment of a Fermanagh and Western League game on Saturday has already begun.

The Division Two game between Lisnarick and Augher Stars at Byrne Park was abandoned on 55 minutes after the referee in question, Colin Murray, allegedly felt threatened following the sending off a home player.

The findings of any probe and subsequent repercussions will depend heavily on the referee’s official report submitted to the league’s disciplinary body.

Augher Stars were leading 3-1 at the time on abandonment.

Meanwhile, six games in reserve divisions two and three were postponed at the weekend due to a lack of referees. According to referee appointment officer Basil Marshall a total of 14 match officials were unavailable for various reasons..

Mr Marshall is hopeful that the lack of available referees was an exception rather than the rule but admitted the failure to cover a full programme of games again highlighted the need for more match officials.

He said, “Having 14 referees unavailable on the same Saturday I am sure is a one off, with many having to work or due to family commitments.

“We have had two years of no recruiting due to Covid but we work hard to cover every game

“The Fermanagh and Western do try to move games if possible with efforts of Malcolm McVitty (fixtures secretary).

“I do believe this was a one off with so many not available for one Saturday but I have no doubt that with all youth games we need more referees. We are looking at running another beginners course.”