FAI increase player ban to seven years after assault on referee

A player from Cavan soccer club Sporting BJD has had his ban from all football-related activity extended to seven years by the FAI after his assault on a referee during a North Eastern Football League encounter against Bay United FC last month.

Gardaí launched an investigation into the incident, which was recorded and widely circulated online. The match was abandoned after 85 minutes.

A five-year ban was initially handed down to the player, however, following a disciplinary hearing held on Monday, an independent appeal committee increased the sanction.

An FAI statement read: "The player had initially been given a five-year ban from all football-related activities by an Independent Disciplinary Committee. However, on appeal, this ban has been increased to a seven-year ban from all football-related activities.

"The FAI acknowledges the decision by the Independent Appeal Committee and wishes to reiterate our zero tolerance approach towards any abuse or threat or act of violence against match officials."

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