Cooney laments ‘watershed’ moment

GAA President Christy Cooney has broken his silence on the controversial Leinster SFC final between Meath and Louth admitting he would have liked to have seen the game replayed.

He went on to describe the chaotic scenes at the final whistle as a “watershed” for the Association which may have long term implications for the organisations.

The game ended with outraged Louth supporters assaulting referee Martin Sludden on the Croke Park pitch for awarding a late goal to Meath’s Joe Sheridan which earned provincial honours for the Royal County. TV replays showed that Sheridan had thrown the ball over the line. The GAA authorities had attracted criticism for failing to offer leadership on the issue, with the onus falling on the Meath panel and county board to decide whether or not a replay should be given. Last night Cooney defended Croke Park’s handling of the matter and again insisted their hands were tied.