Funding for League of Ireland teams to pay for astro turf pitches has been suspended until the sports minister receives "assurances" they will not be damaged by flares. Patrick O’Donovan, who was at the match, said he was to meet with representatives of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) and the League of Ireland this week about the issue. "I think it's best dealt with now by the gardaí, to make sure that those criminals are brought to justice and brought before the courts," Mr O'Donovan said. Asked if he believes that games in the league will have to be played behind closed doors, Mr O'Donovan said that he is keeping an open mind. These are two small towns in the same county," Mr O'Donovan said.

Source: Irish Examiner February 23, 2026 23:17 UTC