It’s official: Douglas are the champs

DOUGLAS have been awarded the Munster Club League Championship five days after they ‘drew’ the final against Austin Stacks.

In a statement issued last night, the Munster Club League Committee confirmed that following the receipt of the referee’s report on the game, Douglas were confirmed winners of the game on a 2-9 to 1-11 scoreline.

Originally the official, John M Kelly, had blown the final whistle in the game at Ballyvourney last Sunday and declared the result a draw on the back of a 2-8 to 1-11 scoreline.

He had ruled that Willie Coveney’s 37th minute free to be wide, but in his report to the league committee he changed that view and adjusted the scoreline accordingly.

The statement from the league committee said they “have now received the referee’s report of the Division 1 Football Final between Douglas and Austin Stacks played in Ballyvourney last Sunday. In his report, referee John M Kelly confirmed the final score as Douglas 2-9 Austin Stacks 1-11 and consequently Douglas are declared winners of the competition.

“The Committee sincerely congratulates Douglas on their victory and also regrets the confusion regarding the score at the conclusion of the game. The Committee also wish to acknowledge the part played by Austin Stacks who at all times were prepared to accept the referee’s ruling on the scoreline.”

Arrangements have now been made that the trophy will be formally presented to Douglas in their club premises on tonight (Saturday, December 27) at 8 pm.

The news has been greeted with delight in Douglas.