Monaghan Called Off

If it’s a long, long way to Tipperary it’s a great deal further to Monaghan. Especially when, like Wexford Youths, you make the trek only to discover the game has been called off.

A controversial decision by referee Rob Rogers was disputed by both managers amidst allegations that Rogers did not carry out a proper pitch inspection.   It was alleged that the referee went on to the pitch before the floodlights had been switched on although he subsequently denied this when reporting to referee supremo Pat Kelly by phone.

I rarely comment on referee’s decisions but had I been interviewed by Anto Russell I would have had to say that I witnessed Mr Rogers car driving out of the ground as the lights came on.

When it was visible the condition of the pitch was better than it has been for some matches I have seen at Century Homes Park in the past.   There was a little surface water near the half way line and a waterlogged section immediately at the entrance to the playing area that may have unduly influenced Mr Rogers decision.  Since he did not stick around to talk to the press I am as much in the dark as he apparently was when he made it.

The postponement has thrown Youths’ already crowded schedule into further chaos.   With next Wednesday being the only credible date on which to re-schedule it means five games in eight days for Wexford with the trip to Monaghan likely to be sandwiched in two days after the visit of Wolves and two before the final League of Ireland game at home to Mervue United next Saturday.  

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