THUGS GET 40YR BANS FOR REFEREE ATTACK 3 players and a fan punished over ‘unjustifiable’ violence
Daniel Sweeney THREE players and a spectator have been hit with 40-year bans from all soccer activity for their part in an attack against a referee.
Daniel Sweeney was brutally assaulted after officiating a match between Mullingar Town and Horseleap United, suffering serious facial injuries including a broken jaw.
The Combined Counties Football League released a statement yesterday condemning the “unjustifiable” attack which took place on November 11.
It read: “The recent assault on CCFL match official Daniel Sweeney resulted in local, national and international headlines.
“The vicious, unprecedented level of violence directed at Daniel was unprovoked, unwarranted and unjustifiable.
“The incidents that occurred at the end and in the aftermath of this football game are not representative of the magnificent work undertaken by the volunteers in the administration, playing and refereeing of association football in our league or across any of the great leagues under the jurisdiction of the FAI.”
The spectator, who was already serving a lifetime ban from playing, also used to turn out for Mullingar Town.
The sanctions will be subject to appeal with the club also ordered to pay a €500 fine and to appoint an independent liaison officer to assist match officials.
Speaking in the wake of the attack earlier this month, the father of two said he forgives his attackers, but warned a safe environment must be created for referees to do the jobs they love.
He said: “I bear no animosity whatsoever for what happened.
“Actually, I would forgive them and that’s my message. I forgive you for what’s happened and hold no grudge.
“It certainly makes you question should I be refereeing when you feel you’re not properly protected, so it makes you question whether refereeing is for you.”
Gardai are still probing the attack.
IN AFTERMATH OF ATTACK
I forgive you for what has happened and bear no grudge
DANIEL SWEENEY