Kearney quits Coldrick’s team after umpiring controversy

THE umpire at the centre of Kildare’s controversially disallowed goal in the All-Ireland SFC quarter-final against Donegal has decided to leave Meath referee David Coldrick’s back-up team.

Tony Kearney raised the green flag when Tomás O’Connor finished to the net after Johnny Doyle’s point attempt came down off an upright early in the second half. However, Coldrick over-ruled the original decision and Kildare lost by the minimum margin at the end of extra-time.

Some analysts suggested the goal should have been allowed stand and Kildare manager Kieran McGeeney was among those expressing annoyance.

Kearney is a clubmate of Coldrick with Blackhall Gaels.