Disciplinary meltdown apparent

Disciplinary meltdown could be an apt description for some of the events which unfolded on the pitches and sidelines at Meath GAA games over the past couple of weeks. The A FL Div 2 encounter between Dunderry and Rathkenny last week was abandoned after the referee, Gerry O'Brien, was allegedly abused by a Dunderry official. Although Dunderry were ahead by 0-9 to 0-8 with only two minutes remaining, it is understood that at last Thursday night's meeting of the Meath Co Committee Controls Competition Committee (CCC), the points were awarded to Rathkenny. Another referee, Patrick Neilis from Kilmainham was allegedly assaulted after the A FL Div 4 encounter between Bective and hosts St Brigid's. Bective won the game by 1-13 to 0-4. It is understood that four St Brigid's players were also red-carded, three during the game, and that the suspensions which were handed out last week may be appealed. St Brigid's have requested a hearing which will take place this week. The problems are not exclusive to the adult teams. The MFC game between Drumconrath / Meath Hill and Dunderry last week was abandoned following a melee and the matter will be dealt with this week. Referee Patrick Coyle was also subjected to abuse in the u-16 Fair Play League game between Gaeil Colmcille and Dunboyne. That matter is also likely to be investigted further this week. The u-12 hurling game between Kildalkey and Trim was also in the melting pot although details on that particular game are not clear. Donaghmore / Ashbourne could also have some questions to answer arising out reports where, allegedly, there were some problems.