Nugent: ‘We need more refs or games face postponement’

ARMAGH secretary Patrick Óg Nugent has warned that a shortage of referees could prevent the Orchard county completing its league programme in 2011.

Writing in his report to Sunday’s annual convention, he warns that a situation which has been getting ‘steadily worse’ in recent years has now reached a critical stage.

He said: “There is a possibility that at some point in 2011 there will not be enough referees to cover all league matches, which will result in postponement of games.”

While he welcomes progress being made in the recruitment drive at youth level, he expresses concern over claims one ‘young whistler’ suffered an assault and had his property damaged after the game by adults.

“Clubs, keep in mind: your members, your responsibility, and your disciplinary action,’’ he said.

Nugent references the introduction of (Northern Ireland) policies dealing with the issuing of licences for sports grounds. He noted: “I have to be careful what I say about this and how I say it as we will be returning to negotiate on Crossmaglen and I need to remember that the Athletic Grounds will also come under these policies from the Armagh Council.

“That stated I cannot let this go without commenting on the attendance figure permitted by Newry & Mourne Council at games to be played in Crossmaglen and the nicest thing I can say is that it is “ludicrous.”