Westport United manager banned from all football activity for twelve months
Kevin McNamara receives twelve-month ban and other Westport United officials sanctioned for incident following Mayo Super League clash with Crossmolina
WESTPORT UNITED manager, Kevin McNamara, has been banned from all football activity for twelve months, by the Mayo Football League, for incidents alleged to have occurred at the end of the Elverys Mayo Super League game between Crossmolina and Westport United, at Kilmurry, Crossmolina, on August 10.
Following a disciplinary meeting held last Wednesday night, August 21, the Mayo League, acting on a report from the match referee, Eric Eaton, issued the lengthy ban to McNamara, with club member Padraig Burns banned for 12 matches, and fines being imposed on the Westport club relating to the behaviour of coach, Tony Pierce, and club member, Donal Fahy.
McNamara was issued with a yellow card in the 88th minute of the game and a second yellow after the match, which automatically means a red card. The Mayo News understands that the referee’s report on the match, claimed that McNamara made physical contact with him on more than one occasion after the game, and there were some exchanges at the entrance to the changing rooms. Westport United sources deny this, and The Mayo News understands that the club will appeal the suspensions.
The match, which ended in a 0-0 draw, passed off largely without incident according to supporters of both clubs.
The Mayo League and The Referees Society, were not available for comment.
Notice of the suspensions were received just 24 hours after the club had celebrated the opening of new pitches at their United Park grounds.
In a statement - which has since been removed from social media - Westport United acknowledged the recent ruling.
“Westport United acknowledges the recent disciplinary rulings related to our senior men’s team management. The club is actively exploring all possible options, including an appeal, and will ensure that due process is fully respected.
“Until the proceedings are concluded, we will not be making any further comment.
“We thank our supporters for their understanding and continued support.”