Ulster Council to Probe Clones Brawl

The Ulster Council has promised a full investigation into the ugly scenes which marred All-Ireland club champions Crossmaglen’s narrow victory over Clontibret in Sunday’s provincial club quarter-final at Clones.

A mass brawl erupted immediately after the final whistle, and Tyrone referee Martin Sludden required a garda escort as he left the pitch. The game was a niggly affair throughout with two players from Crossmanglen, John Donaldson and Cathal Short, receiving their marching orders.

Confirming that an investigation is likely to be launched this week, Ulster Council PRO Michael Hasson said: "There will be an investigation into the incidents which marred this Ulster club game between Crossmaglen Rangers and Clontibret.

"However, we must first await the match report from the referee. Once we have that report, the Ulster Council will launch an immediate investigation and get to the bottom of this."