Soccer – Harps to appeal points docking and fine

Finn Harps have confirmed today that they are appealing the decision of the Airtricity League to award Monaghan United the points from last Saturday’s Division One game between the two clubs. It centres on the fielding of an illegible player by Harps in the game which ended in a nil all draw. Defender Aaron O’Hagan had picked up four yellow cards in the now defunct A League. That competition has since been replaced by the U-19 League – but because O’Hagan is overage for that league, he was supposed to serve his one game ban with the senior team. Harps Chairman Joey O’Leary suggested O’Hagan’s inclusion in the team was a simple oversight and the club informed the League of their mistake on Monday. It was confirmed on Wednesday night that Monaghan have been awarded a 3-0 victory and therefore the three points while Harps have been docked a point and now face a fine. Given Harps position in the First Division table, the points docking won’t make or break the season but a heavy fine would have more serious implications.