IRFU under fire over fixture fiasco

THE IRFU yesterday came under fire from second division clubs embroiled in controversy over a fixture abandoned due to rain and snow which then failed to take place yesterday despite perfect weather conditions.

The Ballynahinch-Highfield tie was abandoned before Christmas with Highfield leading 5-0, and called off on a subsequent date with the Ballymacarn pitch deemed unplayable. The IRFU re-fixed the game for yesterday despite vigorous protests from both clubs that to expect them to play two games inside 48 hours was unreasonable. Ballynahinch played Instonians, while Highfield took on Old Crescent on Saturday.

Ballynahinch lodged an official objection to the IRFU, citing health and safety issues, but the objection was thrown out and the club forfeited €500, the cost of holding an appeal.