Conn Rangers appeal controversial Mayo League ban on officials

Controversial suspensions and fines against officials of Conn Rangers FC have been appealed by the club.

Rangers manager Joe Faughnan has been banned from all football activity for 12 months by the Mayo Football League (MFL). The final three months are suspended. The club has been fined €200.

Mr. Faughnan, who is also chairperson of Mayo FC, was cited for 'falsifying team management information' on the FAI Connect app.

The MFL’s Disciplinary Control Unit (DCU) found the falsification related to the Conn Rangers v Killala Under 18 Quigley Cup match on Sunday, October 18. That game was abandoned.

It is understood Mr. Faughnan was not at the match, as he was unexpectedly held up at work. He had, however, completed the official FAI Connect teamsheet and listed himself as team manager.

The suspended portion applies only if no other disciplinary proceedings are brought against him during the 12 months. The ban took effect on Friday, November 6, and covers all MFL, Connacht FA and FAI activity.

Separately, Conn Rangers official, Nigel Reape, who stood in for Mr. Faugnan at the match, has been banned for 24 months over alleged ‘abuse and threatening behaviour’ at the same fixture.

The club has been fined a further €500 in respect of that sanction, bringing its total fines to €700.

The sanctions were decided at a hearing on October 28 and issued after a Mayo League DCU meeting on November 5.

Conn Rangers have since lodged an appeal with the Connacht FA. The club is seeking a swift resolution.

Mayo FC is a separate entity, having just completed its inaugural season in the FAI National League. Mr. Faughnan has been to the fore as the club's chairman.

He also manages the Conn Rangers Mayo Super League team and is very active in Mayo soccer.