Louth seek 'clarification' of referee's report

The Louth-Meath saga took another twist today as the Louth County Board released a brief statement following a meeting of its Management Committee.

The GAA confirmed yesterday that referee Martin Sludden, in his report on Sunday's Leinster SFC final, had admitted he made a mistake in allowing Joe Sheridan's controversial late goal to stand.

No further details of the referee's report were made public, but a statement from the GAA explained that 'under GAA rules, a re-fixture cannot be ordered as the referee's report of the full-time score is final.'

With Meath GAA officials and members of the management and senior playing panel meeting tonight to discuss the issue, it seems unlikely now that there will be an offer of a replay.

Speculation is mounting that the Louth County Board will launch an appeal of the result - Meath's last-gasp 1-12 to 1-10 victory - and today's statement would suggest that they may go down that route.

It read: "On Tuesday, July 13, a meeting was held by the Management Committee of the Louth County Board to consider all avenues available in light of events to date in relation to the Leinster SFC final on Sunday, July 11.

"We have received a copy of the referee's report and have considered the contents and are seeking clarification on its contents.

"A further statement will be issued as matters evolve."

The meeting took place at Fairways Hotel in Dundalk, and lasted about an hour and a half. Louth manager Peter Fitzpatrick was present, and it is understood that a legal representative examined the contents of the referee's report.