Shamrock Rovers' protest against Dawson Devoy's eligibility rejected

After returning to Bohs from MK Dons, Devoy made his second debut for the club in the 1-0 victory over Rovers.

July 19: Dawson Devoy of Bohemians in action against Trevor Clarke of Shamrock Rovers during the Sports Direct Men’s FAI Cup second round match. Pic: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Shamrock Rovers' appeal against Bohemians midfielder Dawson Devoy's eligibility for their Sports Direct Men's FAI Cup clash on July 19 has been rejected.

After returning to Bohs from English outfit MK Dons, Devoy made his second debut for the club in the 1-0 victory over Rovers.

Devoy had been sent off in the EFL Trophy during his time across the water, with the FAI deeming the suspension should be carried out for Bohs' Premier Division fixture against Dundalk.

An FAI statement on the matter read: "Following the conclusion of a disciplinary hearing, an Independent Disciplinary Committee has rejected Shamrock Rovers FC's protest relating to Dawson Devoy's eligibility in their fixture versus Bohemian FC in the Sports Direct Men's FAI Cup on 19 July 2024.

"In accordance with the FAI Disciplinary Regulations, this decision may be appealed."

Bohemians welcomed the decision. 

"In rejecting Shamrock Rovers’ appeal, Bohemian FC’s adherence to the correct process of establishing the eligibility of our player with the FAI has been vindicated.

"We now look forward to travelling to Tralee on Sunday, August 18 to face Kerry FC in the third round for the first-ever meeting between the clubs."

Elsewhere, Rovers have announced the signing of Scottish frontman Marc McNulty, subject to international clearance.

The 31-year-old former Livingston, Sheffield United, Coventry City, Reading, Hibernian and Dundee United striker has won two senior caps for his country.