David Gough was targeted by some Kerry fans as he left the field after the All-Ireland semi-final, according to reports from those in Croke Park, writes Stephen Barry.
Irish Examiner reporters at the game noted the behaviour of fans as the referee of Dublin’s two-point win over Kerry exited via the Cusack Stand tunnel, saying he had various objects, including match programmes, thrown at him.
“Kerry fans throwing objects at David Gough as he leaves the field,” reported John Fogarty.
Kerry fans throwing objects at David Gough as he leaves the field. #GAA
— John Fogarty (@JohnFogartyIrl) August 28, 2016
“Some fans appear to be flinging objects at referee David Gough as he walks off. One more talking point from a fascinating game,” wrote Brendan O’Brien.
Some fans appear to be flinging objects at referee David Gough as he walks off. One more talking point from a fascinating game#DUBvKER
— Brendan O'Brien (@Rackob) August 28, 2016
@MartinCostell16 @jk20142014 Far side of the pitch at Cusack tunnel so can't say for sure. I doubt they were Dublin fans though
— Brendan O'Brien (@Rackob) August 28, 2016
“David Gough being pelted with match programmes and various other assorted items as he leaves the pitch via the Cusack Stand tunnel,” said Jackie Cahill.
David Gough being pelted with match programmes and various other assorted items as he leaves the pitch via the Cusack Stand tunnel #DUBvKER
— Jackie Cahill (@cahilljackie) August 28, 2016
When asked about the referee’s performance after the game, Kerry manager Éamonn Fitzmaurice told RTÉ: “I think you’ve to give credit to Dublin now. I’ll bite my lip on that one. Other people can be looking at it and see what they think.”
The most hotly contested decision is this challenge on Peter Crowley by Kevin McManamon, which Gough ruled a fair shoulder. The incident occurred in injury time with Dublin ahead by one point.
“There were 40 gladiators out there playing football the way it should be played,” commented Pat Spillane after the game. “Physical, skilful, fitness levels, pace, and, might I also add, excellently refereed by David Gough.”
