GAA AUTHORITIES in Offaly are investigating a claim that a teenage player was subjected to sectarian abuse during a county football semi-final match.
The incident is alleged to have happened during a minor (under 18s) match which had to be abandoned after a brawl involving players, officials and supporters.
Referee Chris Dwyer called a halt to the game between Edenderry and St Vincent's two minutes from full-time after players got involved in a wrestling match on the pitch.
There were then chaotic scenes involving supporters from both teams who entered the pitch. The St Vincent's team is an amalgamation of four clubs - Ballycommon, Cappincur, Daingean and Kilclonfert.
The Offaly GAA county board has promised a full investigation into the scenes at the ground in Geashill, including an allegation of sectarian abuse directed towards one of the St Vincent's players.
The teenager, a member of the Church of Ireland, was reportedly subjected to the abuse when he soloed the ball during the second half. The player's father complained to officials at the game.
St Vincent's representatives are expected to discuss the incident before deciding whether to make an official complaint about the remark, which is alleged to have been made by a supporter and not by an Edenderry player or official.
Offaly GAA county board chairman Pat Teehan condemned the incidents that overshadowed the match and paid tribute to Protestants who play leading roles in GAA clubs as officials and players.
Edenderry GAA club says it will co-operate with the investigation set up by the Offaly board. The club says it has identified members involved in the brawl.
"A number of Edenderry club members and supporters involved have already been identified and clarification is being sought on the involvement of others," the club said in a statement.
"The club is treating their unwanted behaviour very seriously and will be implementing severe penalties as appropriate," the club said.