GAA Football: Rathnew's Dignam banned for 12 weeks

New Leinster champions Rathnew have been handed a setback ahead of next month's All-Ireland club semi-final with Ballinderry.

Wing-forward Richard Dignam was last night given a 12 week ban by the Leinster Council following a review of video evidence of the fight at the end of their provincial win over Na Fianna on December 23.

The sanction means he will also miss the All-Ireland final should Rathnew progress.

His brawl opponent, Na Fianna centre-back Stephen McGlinchey, was sentenced to a four week suspension, while substitute Philip McEvoy was also given 12 weeks.

Both clubs were also fined €650.