Seagulls cleared after match-fixing investigation completed

BRAY WANDERERS have been cleared of all match-fixing suspicions following an investigation by the Football Association of Ireland and An Garda Siochana.

An investigation was launched following on from their mid-season friendly against Waterford FC last year.

The Seagulls lost 0-5 to the then-First Division side on Friday, September 8, which prompted a Garda investigation days later as a multitude of squad cars arrived at the training ground and interviewed players one-by-one.

Up to five fixtures were said to be under the microscope but the Waterford loss was what prompted the investigation.

Now, five months after the investigation began, the FAI have cleared Bray Wanderers of any match-fixing.

In a statement released on Thursday, the governing body of football said:

“The Football Association of Ireland has concluded its investigation into alleged match-fixing surrounding the friendly match between Bray Wanderers FC and Waterford FC on Friday, September 8 at the Carlisle Grounds.

“The investigation, which was conducted in addition with an investigation run by An Garda Siochana, has found that there was insufficient evidence to bring any charges in relation to any breaches of FAI rules.

Wanderers responded on Monday and spoke of their relief at the FAI’s ruling.

“The Club welcome the FAI’s statement issued on Thursday 8th February .

“The Club fully cooperated with the FAI and An Garda Siochana in the course of their investigations.

“Thursday’s statement is a relief to everyone in the Club and to the fans.

“The Club, the players , the management and coaching staff have had a stressful and difficult five months since these allegations broke,” they said.