Players seek better communication with refs

THE Professional Footballers’ Association of Ireland (PFAI) is to set up a referees’ seminar as calls for more communication between players and match officials arose following Sunday’s FAI Ford Cup final.

Referee Richie Winter came in for strong criticism for his decision to send off Shelbourne’s Barry Clancy as Sligo Rovers went on to retain the trophy in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Aviva Stadium. The course, in conjunction with the referees association, bids to create a better understanding between players and officials.

“We made an application about a month ago to set up a referees course for players,” explained PFAI general secretary Stephen McGuinness.