Waterford GAA launch investigation after club fields player awaiting Covid-19 test result

Waterford are to carry out an investigation into the circumstances which saw a footballer play in a county final while awaiting a Covid-19 test result.

The Dungarvan club has already apologised for the fact that the player lined out in last Saturday’s intermediate football final, in which they beat Kill, before receiving his positive test result the following day.

Dungarvan said that “errors were made by the club in the interpretation of the Covid-19 guidelines” but that hasn’t been enough to bring the affair to a close, with the county’s management executive meeting to discuss the matter tonight following consultation with Croke Park.

An investigation will now be launched which could result in a punishment dished out to Dungarvan for their handling of the matter.

A Waterford statement read: “The Management Executive of Waterford County Board at an online meeting tonight Wednesday, October 7th agreed to carry out an investigation into the matter from the Intermediate Football Final of the positive Covid-19 case.

“Waterford GAA will not be in a position to make any further comment on the matter until the process has concluded.”

On Monday, the GAA shelved all club fixtures until further notice, largely due to post-match celebrations, though it has since been confirmed that the situation will be reviewed after two weeks. There are 11 senior county finals still to be played along with many more at other grades.

Offaly have had a special request to stage their hurling finals under stringent conditions this weekend turned down by the GAA hierarchy. The Irish Government’s Level 3 restrictions allow county finals to be played, albeit with no fans present, and the Club Players’ Association has also called on the GAA to relax its stance.

“We have been contacted by a lot of clubs over the last 24/48 hours, distressed and disappointed that their season has been brought to an abrupt and unsatisfactory end,” said CPA chairman Micheal Briody.

“They all understand the need to tighten restrictions, but are appealing to have the chance to finish out their campaign.”