Covert operation

Stewards to go undercover on Sunday

Mike Finnerty

UNDERCOVER stewards will be deployed around McHale Park, Castlebar next Sunday as the Mayo GAA Board attempt to prevent any repeat of the incidents that marred Mayo’s recent National League match against Kerry.
The County Board were fined €5,000 last week after a number of objects (including a wooden spoon and coins) were thrown at Kerry players by unidentified Mayo supporters.
“We’ve decided to enlist a number of undercover stewards whose job it will be to mix in with the crowd, mingle, observe, and report back if they see anything untoward,” Mayo GAA Secretary, Sean Feeney, told The Mayo News. “We’re not expecting a crowd in excess of 5,000 people next Sunday so we should be well covered.
“The Mayo supporters were always good supporters and always showed great respect to the opposition. It’s a minority who seem intent on causing trouble.”
Feeney also called on genuine Mayo fans to help stamp out any unruly behaviour.
“I would say that it’s every Mayo supporter’s civic duty to report any misbehaviour to stewards or to tell whoever is out of line to stop. The GAA authorities view this matter very seriously and it could have serious implications for us if it continues.”