Referee Barrett struck by spectator

FORMER intercounty referee Willie Barrett abandoned a club hurling match in Tipperary on Saturday after he was struck twice by a ‘supporter’ wielding a hurley.

Barrett called a halt to the Ballingarry v Carrick Davin South SHC clash at Kilsheelan ten minutes into the second half after a Davin fan rushed from the crowd and struck Barrett first on the back, before aiming a second blow at the referee.

The assailant was then engulfed by a number of people before he could continue his assault on a defenceless Barrett, as the Ardfinnan whistler was protected by a player and linesman Keith O’Brien (Kilsheelan).