Shannon RFC’s appeal against a fine and a suspended points deduction imposed after an AIB League Division One game against Cork Constitution on December 5th last year has been declined by the IRFU.
On December 17th, an IRFU disciplinary panel comprising Hugh Logan (chair), Philip Orr and Michael Coghlan found Shannon guilty of “verbal abuse of the match referee (George Clancy) and officials following the game” Cork Con won 9-8 with a late penalty awarded in front of the posts.
It imposed a fine of €25,000, to be paid to the union’s charitable trust before March 31st, 2010. They also imposed a six-point deduction, suspended on condition there was no further finding of misconduct against Shannon prior to the end of May 2010.
On Wednesday, the appeals panel “reviewed the case and submissions by Shannon RFC” but found that “any mitigating factors submitted on behalf” of the club could not excuse the “very serious nature” of the charges.
In a statement released this afternoon, Shannon said they were “extremely disappointed at the decision” after presenting a “strong case” in a bid to refute the initial findings.
“Shannon’s representation at the appeal hearing presented information that was not available to the initial disciplinary panel pertaining to the clubs ongoing efforts to ensure match officials are afforded respect at all levels for the last number of years.
“Shannon RFC feels that the imposition of such sanctions will have severe consequences on all rugby, at all levels within the club.
It added: “The executive committee will meet early next week to discuss the findings and outcome of the appeal and will be issuing a full and thorough statement soon after.”
In his referee’s report, Clancy alleged he was verbally abused after the game by Shannon legend and Labour councillor Gerry McLoughlin and Shannon RFC president Martin Clancy.
The latter, it was claimed, had to be restrained and ejected from the referee’s changing room by Clancy’s assistants Olly Hodges and Tommy O’Donoghue
His account was supported in submissions by Hodges and O'Donoghue.