Michael Byrne Cup saga is resolved

The long drawn-out saga of the Michael Byrne Cup looks to be at an end, as Athenry’s appeal to their dismissal from the competition has proved successful, meaning their quarter-final tie with Hibernians will be replayed.

The club had been thrown out of the competition when it emerged they had played an ‘illegal’ player in their quarter-final win over Hibernians in April – the player in question was also playing for a team in the UK where he was in College. Based on this information, Hibernians appealed the result and the outcome was that the Galway FA awarded the tie to the city side and Athenry were also fined €500.

Athenry appealed this decision to the Connacht FA and FAI, but both rejected the appeal. The club then took their appeal to arbitration. Submissions were provided by the FAI Appeals Committee and the Connacht FA and having heard their views, the decision was released on Thursday last which found in favour of Athenry FC.

“From day one, we knew the rule was there but the Galway FA, Connacht FA and FAI all didn’t accept it. I would have hated to leave on a bitter note, but at least the club will get an opportunity to defend their Michael Byrne title,” said Gabriel Glavin, the long-serving Athenry FC manager who has decided to take a break from the game.

At this stage, it is anticipated that the competition will resume at the beginning of next season. St Bernard’s are awaiting the winners of the refixed Athenry/Hibernians in the semi final, while in the other half of the draw, NUI Galway are already in the final

In a separate ruling some time ago, the Galway FA lost their appeal to the FAI regards the withdrawn of points and fining of Corrib Rangers B following the transfer of a player from another club.