Sligo Rovers contact FAI over 'frustrations' with officiating

Sligo Rovers have confirmed they contacted the FAI over their "frustrations" with the officiating in their loss to St Patrick's Athletic.

The Bit O’ Red were beaten 3-2 in Richmond Park yesterday evening with the winning goal coming courtesy of a controversial penalty that was awarded to the Saints by referee Rob Hennessy.

"Referees and match officials are integral to our game at all levels and as a club we feel it is vital we keep the principle of respect and cooperation," the club said in a statement.

It added: "While we maintain that outlook, the club has expressed our frustrations around decisions made during yesterday’s match and the potential impact of such events on our season.

"We now move on and prepare for our next game with Shelbourne."

Late in added time, a St Pat’s free kick was launched into the Rovers 18-yard box where Sligo’s Ellis Chapman was adjudged to have fouled St Pat’s Luke Turner.

Turner fell to the ground in front of Chapman after what appeared to be minimal contact between the players.

Hennessy’s decision angered the Sligo Rovers staff, leading to manager John Russell getting sent off for dissent.

Brandon Kavanagh slotted the penalty past Sligo goalkeeper Ed McGinty in the 100th minute to win the match for the Saints.