DERRY FORWARD DECLAN MULLAN is the answer to a table quiz question that will stump many a GAA fan for years to come. Mullan received the first ever black card in Derry’s 3-11 to 2-10 win over Louth at the Athletic Grounds last night.
Referee Brendan Rice flashed the card at Mullan in the second-half of the Fiaich Cup clash between the Oak Leaf and Wee counties.
Under the new rules, Mullan was forced to leave the pitch for the remainder of the game. Anthony O’Neill was the forward’s replacement and a decent one at that. He scored a goal, to put his side ahead, with his first touch of the game.
Handily, for posterity’s sake, the referee was caught in a perfect pose as he sent Mullan to the sidelines:
Looks more like a black wallet than a card. INPHO/Presseye/Russell Pritchard
Derry were a point to the good at half-time but Louth started the second-half to edge in front. O’Neill’s introduction, and goal, was crucial.
Aaron Kerrigan’s goal in the closing stages decided the tie with O’Neill and Ciaran McFaul adding insurance points.
Thought they were not allowed to play games this time of the year?
I think the rule is no collective training but am open to correction.
It’s different for different teams. If you go out early in the summer you can go back in November/December. Dublin/Mayo aren’t allowed back until January.
Anybody at the game know what it was given for?
I’m hoping this rule will help the game, but only time will tell
It was for some a cynical foul in midfield – his second of the match. No goalscoring opportunity denied though.
Thanks Patrick