GAA disciplinary chiefs have sought information regarding the fracas that left Dublin footballer Davey Byrne hospitalised with a broken nose 12 days ago.
Utility player Byrne missed last Sunday’s Leinster final win over Westmeath due to injuries sustained in a high profile challenge game against Armagh in Glasnevin on July 2. Dublin manager Jim Gavin confirmed last Thursday evening that Byrne broke his nose, but said a truce had been reached between the Ballymun club man and an Armagh player, who "are now concentrating on their inter-county careers".
That may not be possible just yet, though, with sources indicating the GAA’s Central Competitions Control Committee have requested further information on the matter. It’s understood match referee Fergal Kelly submitted a report on the game, but that the Longford whistler didn’t make any note of the Byrne flashpoint, which he apparently missed.
Gavin was probed on the issue by Newstalk radio reporter Colm Parkinson last Thursday evening and revealed "the match was videoed". It’s understood the CCCC are now in possession of that DVD, though it’s unclear whether footage of the fracas is included, or if Dublin and Armagh have made any other submissions.
A top level GAA source has revealed "the matter remains open" and is currently being considered. The GAA was initially criticised by various pundits for not taking action in light of the shocking incident, which left Byrne hospitalised. Former Mayo manager James Horan put forward a pressing case for a full enquiry, pointing out that "a player has been very badly injured", suggesting "we can’t let something this significant just be brushed aside".
Disciplinary authorities may have felt they had little to act upon until Gavin spoke extensively about the fracas last Thursday.
