As is typically the case when two teams achieve the same score tally in a match, the Christy Ring Cup Final between Meath and Antrim will be replayed.
The CCCC initially recommended that the replay be played this Saturday evening in Newry, however they were said to be amenable to rescheduling.
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In the past few days, Meath had appeared obstinate in their refusal to accommodate a replay, asserting that they had won the match. They said that many of their players had plans to head to America, as indeed did several Antrim players.
Manager Martin Ennis sounded a very uncompromising note in the Meath Chronicle this week.
This really is shambolic and a farce and it is far from over yet. As a management team we are firmly against playing a replay to a game we have already won, collected the cup and celebrated. I will contact each of the players to get their views, but how can the players be in the right frame of mind or be physically right to play a game next Saturday. It's nothing short of a disgrace.
However, tonight, Meath County Board revealed that they had agreed to a replay after a consultation with both the players and the management.
Managemet of Coiste Na Mi in consultation with hurling management and players have agreed to Replay @ChristyRingCup statement to follow
— Meath GAA (@MeathGAA) June 8, 2016
Meath are to request that the replay be played the following week, Saturday 18 June, in order to allow greater preparation time for their players.
In Regard to players welfare and appropriate preparation @MeathGAA v @AontroimGAA Meath management are to request game on Sat 18th June
— Meath GAA (@MeathGAA) June 8, 2016
The great Christy Ring Cup controversy of 2016 has come to an end. All that remains now is the replay.
