Man jailed for red card ref attack

A 20-year-old soccer player who punched a referee after receiving a red card has been sent to prison.

Shane Brennan of Cromcastle Drive, Kilmore was playing for an under-18 side in a North Dublin League when he hit Mr Mark Davidson in the mouth. Mr Davidson said since the incident he had spent over €3000 on dental work and expected to spend another €60,000.

Judge Katherine Delahunt dismissed this figure as excessive, but sentenced Brennan to two years, suspending the final 12 months on condition he engage with the probation service and seek treatment for his bipolar depression.

She noted he showed a "lack of empathy" with the victim because he tried to justify his assault by saying: "I had never been sent off in my life."

Brennan had pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm at Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Centre on May 15, 2007.

Mr Davidson was refereeing a game between Portmarnock F.C. and Donaghmede Celtic. Brennan was number twelve for Portmarnock.