Donegal to escape CCCC punishment

Donegal are set to escape punishment as a result of using one player too many in the closing stages of Saturday’s drawn Ulster semi-final.

Indications from the Central Competitions Control Committee (CCCC) yesterday suggested the county have no case to answer even though they had 15 players on the field when they should have had 14, albeit for a short period of time.

Monaghan had raised the issue with the fourth official before Donegal selector Maxi Curran ushered a player from the field. However, resulting from the confusion, Donegal may have only had 13 men on the pitch in additional time.

Monaghan manager Malachy O’Rourke said following the game that they would not be bringing the matter further. His opposite number Rory Gallagher said he was not aware there was an issue until afterwards.

The CCCC has confirmed Laois native Maurice Deegan will take charge of the replay.

Meanwhile, it is believed Donegal could go as far as the Disputes Resolution Authority to free up Neil McGee for Saturday’s match. The defender sat out the drawn game, the first of a two-match ban after being sent off against Fermanagh, his second red card of the season.

Gallagher confirmed in Cavan that Donegal would bring the Gweedore man’s case to the Central Appeals Committee having lodged documents last Friday. However, should they endorse his suspension the county board are understood to be prepared to go to the Disputes Resolution Authority.