Morgan appeal upheld

Cork football manager Billy Morgan has had his sixth month suspension reduced to eight weeks on appeal.

Cork football manager Billy Morgan has had his sixth month suspension reduced to eight weeks on appeal.

The Nemo Rangers stalwart received the initial ban following an incident with Sligo linesman Marty Duffy during Cork's All-Ireland final defeat to Kerry in September.

A 24-week suspension was confirmed by the Central Hearings Committee at the start of the month despite Morgan appearing  in person to contest the sanction proposed by the Central Competitions Control Committee.

But Morgan - whose term as manager officially ended after the All-Ireland - had his appeal heard by the Central Appeals Committee last night.

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According to a GAA statement, the ban was reduced on the basis that the Central Hearing's Committee "did not quote the appropriate rule".

The eight-week suspension is effective from October 4th, meaning Morgan has five weeks still to serve.

Morgan's three-year term ended with the final defeat to Kerry and it is unlikely he will be re-appointed.

The Cork county board have already set up a special sub-committee to find a management team for the next two-years.

But while a six-month ban would have killed his chances of returning, the reduction to just eight weeks keeps the door ajar for the time being.

Morgan (62) started his second term as Cork manager in late 2003 and was previously in charge from 1986 to 1996.

GAA president Nickey Brennan, meanwhile, has urged supporters to turn out in force for this weekend's Martin Donnelly Interprovincial Finals at Croke Park.

"Both games should prove to be extremely competitive and a treat for lovers of football and hurling," he said.

"It is an appropriate stage for some of our best talent with several current All-Ireland champions and All Stars on show.

"This is also the first time that a hurling game will take place under lights in Croke Park and we are all looking forward to that."

Munster and Ulster meet in the football final at 5.15pm while Munster and Connacht clash in the hurling showpiece at 7pm.

Admission prices are €10 for adults, €5 for juveniles, senior citizens and students.