THE FAI HAS revealed that they are extending their investigation into the irregular betting patterns on matches involving Athlone Town.

On Wednesday, the association publicly launched a probe into last weekend’s SSE Airtricity League First Division meeting of Athlone and Longford Town after Uefa learned of suspicious betting on international markets.

A report was being submitted to An Garda Siochana, while players, coaches and officials of the club were due to be interviewed.

The Irish Times reported last night that it had seen Uefa documents which stated “there is clear and overwhelming betting evidence that the course or result of this match was unduly influenced with a view to gaining corrupt betting profits”.

And this evening, a statement released by the FAI has confirmed they are broadening the investigation to two additional Athlone games.

“The Football Association of Ireland can confirm that the investigation into Athlone Town AFC regarding potential breaches of FAI rules has now been widened,” it reads.

“On 3 May, the FAI announced that it had launched an investigation into Athlone Town AFC following a detailed report received from Uefa highlighting irregular betting patterns around their SSE Airtricity League First Division game with Longford Town on Saturday, 29 April.

The FAI has since learned – via confidential information received on Friday, 5 May – that two other games involving the club warrant further investigation.

“The FAI have contacted the club about this new information and will commence its investigation on Monday, 8 May when meeting with players, staff and officials.”

Athlone, currently second from bottom in the First Division, are at home to league leaders Cobh Ramblers this evening.

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