Oban Camanachd Statement Following Abandoned Match | |
29 September 2014 Oban Camanachd have this evening issued a statement following the abandonment of the Marine Harvest National Division title decider against Fort William at Mossfield on Saturday 27 September 2014. The outcome of the match would determine who gained promotion to the Orion Group Premiership. The game’s flashpoint came early in the second half when, with Oban Camanachd leading 1-0, referee Robert Baxter was struck by a fast-moving ball and was unable to continue. There were several Camanachd Association referees in attendance but there was confusion over how the rules should be applied in such circumstances the match was eventually abandoned. There were statements from Fort William and the Camanachd Association on Sunday 28 September 2014.
The official statement from Oban Camanachd President Allan Dunnings reads: Oban Camanachd Club wish to make the following statement regarding the abandonment of our recent fixture with Fort William Shinty Club. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of Oban Camanachd and the Camanachd Association to continue the match, it reached a very disappointing ending. Oban Camanachd respect the right of Fort William to seek abandonment of the game; however, the timing of their decision proved problematic for all concerned. In the interests of the sport, Oban Camanachd will not pursue any other avenue open to us, other than replaying the fixture. Oban Camanachd are ready and willing to play on any date allocated by the Camanachd Association. Oban Camanachd wish the referee, Robert Baxter, a full and speedy recovery and hope he shall be fully fit to referee the replay. We would like to acknowledge the efforts of the Camanachd Association and Charles Young and to thank Billy Wotherspoon for stepping up to officiate at short notice. We thank all those attending the match for their support and for their patience. To acknowledge the disappointment of the large crowd and the unsatisfactory ending of the game the replay shall be admission free. We are hopeful everyone can attend the rescheduled fixture. Statement ends |