Tyrone refs’ chief looks to ease black card fears

The secretary of Tyrone’s Referees’ Committee, Raymond Monteith, has urged managers and players to approach the introduction of the black card system in 2014 in the proper spirit.

“The black card will be another new challenge for players, managers and referees, I have every confidence the referees will continue to apply the rules as instructed and I hope players and managers will meet the task with a positive mind-set. The aim of the black card is to remove cynical play,” said Monteith.

“Gaelic football played in the correct spirit will remove any concern over cards.”

The official reported that 38 clubs availed of the opportunity to meet with members of the Referees’ Committee earlier this year during a series of visits aimed at improving relationships between clubs, players and match officials.

“Our aim was to talk to players and club committees and to improve the relationship between clubs, players and match officials. This was a two-way street with feedback invited and encouraged from.

“Two members of the committee attended each venue. Some 38 clubs took up our offer and I thank each one of them for their hospitality and active participation.

“Numbers varied at different venues but overall this engagement was viewed successful and, in the main, welcomed. We gave a small hand-out to everyone with a brief guide to the rules and covered the areas of noting, yellow and red cards.”

Meanwhile, a referee recruitment crisis is threatening the delivery of Tyrone’s programme of club fixtures.

Just three new recruits joined the ranks of the men in black in the past year, and numbers have fallen to a dangerously low level.