Ringmahon Rangers' appeal against FAI sanctions rejected

Cork outfit Ringmahon can now refer the decision to arbitration.

The FAI has slapped the club with three sanctions, with have now been upheld after an appeal.

Ringmahon Rangers' appeal against the sanctions imposed on them for their decision to hand a walkover to Bohemians in the second round of the Club Orange FAI Cup has been rejected.

An FAI statement in the matter read: "Following an appeal hearing, an Independent Appeal Committee has rejected Ringmahon Rangers AFC’s appeal against the sanctions imposed for its failure to fulfil the fixture against Bohemian FC in the Second Round of the Club Orange Men’s FAI Cup.

"A five-year ban from participating in the Club Orange Men’s FAI Cup; A three-year ban from participating in the FAI Intermediate Cup; A fine of €5,000.

"In accordance with the FAI Disciplinary Regulations, the Club may refer the decision to arbitration."

The Cork outfit couldn’t commit to the second round fixture on July 19 due to a potential clash with the All-Ireland hurling final.

Fears over a low turnout at St Colman’s Park, coupled with the unavailability of several players either attending or watching the decider led to their withdrawal.

It subsequently unfolded that Cork were well beaten by Galway in that semi-final – prompting the Munster Senior League champions to post a black-humoured tweet seeking a pre-season friendly to fill the gap.

The FAI, however, didn't see the funny side, slapping the club with the three aforementioned sanctions.