Ringmahon Rangers' FAI Cup ban reduced to three years following arbitration hearing

The FAI disciplinary process against Ringmahon has now concluded. Pic: Larry Cummins

Ringmahon Rangers' Club Orange FAI Cup ban for not fulfilling their second-round fixture against Bohemians has been reduced to three years from the original five following an arbitration hearing.

While the FAI Cup ban has been reduced to three years, the three-year  FAI Intermediate Cup ban has been upheld, as has the €5,000 fine imposed on the club.

Cork outfit Ringmahon - who had an initial appeal against the punishment rejected - couldn’t commit to the July 19 fixture 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.

"Following an arbitration hearing, an independent Arbitrator has issued his decision concerning Ringmahon Rangers AFC’s failure to fulfil their fixture against Bohemian FC in the second-round of the Club Orange Men’s FAI Cup," an FAI statement read. 

"In relation to the sanctions imposed on Ringmahon Rangers AFC, the Arbitrator determined that: the five-year ban from participating in the Club Orange Men’s FAI Cup is reduced to three years; the three-year ban from participating in the FAI Intermediate Cup is upheld; and the fine of €5,000 is upheld.

"The FAI disciplinary process in this matter is now concluded."