EXCLUSIVE: Moy release statement to express ‘dismay’ after viewing Sean Cavanagh footage

Moy Tir na nOg will appeal the decision of Tyrone GAA.

The county CCC ruled that it would not take any further action on the Sean Cavanagh incident and expressed its satisfaction that the referee had seen and ruled on what had happened. Cavanagh sustained concussion and a number of facial injuries in the Tyrone senior football championship first round clash between Moy and Edendork and was hospitalised during the game but how that came to pass was the subject of much dispute. Edendork, who won the match by a point in the end, released their own statement confirming that they had sought legal advice about the coverage of the game, citing that the reputation of both the club and the player involved in Cavanagh's injury had been defamed. On Tuesday night, however, Moy responded and put on record their disappointment with the outcome of the investigation. In a statement sent to SportsJOE, the club says that the cause of the clash that led to the injuries 'could and should have been avoided'.

'On 24th September 2018, members of the Committee of Moy Tír na nÓg had a first opportunity to view the video footage of the match between Moy and Edendork St. Malachy’s played on 15th September 2018, during which Seán Cavanagh sustained a broken nose and concussion. 'Having considered this video, Moy Tír na nÓg G.A.C expresses its disappointment and dismay with the outcome of the investigation by the Competitions Control Committee of the Tyrone County Board, issued on Saturday 22nd September 2018, that the referee “…adjudicated on the matter appropriately”. The cause of the clash that led to the injuries could and should have been avoided. The mark had been taken by Seán Cavanagh and signalled by the referee directly before the incident. 'Rule 7.2 Category 3 (iv) ‘Behaving in a way that is dangerous to an opponent’ is a red card offence. 'As a first stage in the appeal process, Moy Tír na nÓg G.A.C has requested to Tyrone County Board that the referee and the linesmen who officiated on 15th September 2018 review the footage again to reconsider their opinion. 'Moy Tír na nÓg G.A.C expresses its disapproval of the derogatory online comments made against both clubs and the players involved, and appeals for restraint and moderation in the expression of legitimate views and opinions. 'The health, safety and wellbeing of all our playing members if of the utmost importance to our club. 'We wish Edendork St. Malachy's G.A.C well in their Championship match this Friday, 28th September 2018. 'An Mhaigh Tír na nÓg GAC.'