2009 ACFL farce reaches conclusion

The drawn-out saga concerning the 2009 ACFL Division One final has finally come to a conclusion, with county board PRO Declan Woods confirming that "the matter is now closed". The ACFL Division One title was originally awarded to Cavan Gaels by the CCC some weeks ago. However, Castlerahan - who, it is understood, had stated in writing that they were conceding the tie which was fixed for Wednesday April 14 - then appealed the decision to the Ulster Council. In a further twist, the provincial body threw out the case on a technicality only for Castlerahan and Cavan Gaels to reach an agreement to play the match at a meeting attended by two officials of each club and members of the CCC and county executive on Wednesday May 19 in the Hotel Kilmore. The CCC agreed to accomodate a request to re-fix the final and brought forward Round 14 of the ACFL so that the clubs could meet. However, for reasons which are not clear, Cavan Gaels had a change of heart and informed the CCC last Monday night week (May 14) that they were unwilling to play the tie. "Cavan county board did their level best to accomodate both clubs but the matter is now closed," stated Woods.