FORMER Tyrone minor manager Mickey Donnelly has welcomed a statement released by the Tyrone county board on Thursday in connection with allegations of verbal sledging made against Tyrone players in the aftermath of this year’s MFC clash against Donegal.
Donnelly does, however, feel that it has come six months too late.
The Tyrone board statement read: ‘‘Specific allegations were made against two of our minor players following the minor Championship game against Donegal in Ballybofey on May 17 this year.
"The allegations have been fully investigated by the Ulster Council. We welcome the fact that these players have been exonerated."
Donnelly said on Thursday night: "Tyrone minor players were subjected to trial by media without any opportunity to defend themselves.
"The emotional harm and stress that has been caused to the Tyrone players and their families cannot be undone. The allegations were made at an extremely important time in their lives as they were doing their AS level exams.
One player, in particular, received a large number of threatening messages via social media. He is to be admired and commended for his ability to refrain from responding to this barrage of abuse on social media."
At the conclusion of their investigation into the issue, an Ulster Council report said: "It was likely some Tyrone players made unwelcome verbal comments toward a Donegal player during the game.
"Both county committees and the investigation committee accept that any comments made did not refer or relate to the family or personal life of the Donegal player."
