Shelbourne is planning to contest the red card presented to their goalkeeping coach, Paul Skinner, after a skirmish occurred on the pitch’s sideline in the wake of Evan Caffrey’s deciding goal in the 96th minute at Richmond Park. Shelbourne’s manager, Damien Duff, commented after his team’s 2-1 victory over St Patrick’s Athletic that Skinner was merely celebrating and his fall might have led to a misinterpretation of events.
Seasoned referee Rob Hennessy gave ten yellow cards in an intense Dublin derby which has resulted in Shelbourne standing four points ahead of Derry City midway through the season. Two of those yellow cards were issued to Shelbourne’s assistant coaches, Joey O’Brien and Mauro Martins.
Duff expressed confusion at Paul’s expulsion, describing him as a “fantastic” individual and insinuating John O’Sullivan might have contributed to the confusion by jumping on him after his slip. He suggested a scuffle at the bottom of the steps was unrelated to Paul, and stated he was surprised at the turn of events, indicating that he would consult the appropriate authorities to argue the case.
The dressing rooms at Richmond Park can be accessed via stone stairs under the old stand, and the dugouts are in close proximity. He expressed uncertainty around what exactly happened, alluding to noise and confusion at the bottom of the stairs, with Paul at the top.
Irish Premier Division officials are set to review the footage of the Skinner incident before Shelbourne’s face-off with reigning champions Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght stadium. They may potentially scrutinise the fans responsible for tossing flares onto the pitch post-Caffrey’s goal.
In related news, St Pat’s manager, Stephen Kenny, is facing heightened scrutiny with three consecutive losses potentially marking the start of his 5½-year contract unless they clinch a victory against Bohemians at Dalymount Park. Brian Kerr, ex-St Pat’s and Ireland manager, expressed his hope for Stephen to restore the club’s winning ways on Virgin Media.
He appreciated Stephen’s past successes, aside from his tenure at Shamrock Rovers, hoping for a similarly positive outcome at St Pat’s.
Kerr has expressed optimism for Kenny’s current contract, recalling his decade-long tenure without one as the manager of the same club, marked with a mix of successful and challenging games. Kenny has made it clear through his statement last week that he does not intend to take Kerr’s counsel following his criticised stint as Ireland’s manager. Reacting to this, Kerr mentioned that Kenny has refused to even go out for tea or coffee with him. Despite not being a coffee drinker himself, Kerr recalled how they last had tea together 25 years ago in Israel when Kenny was with Longford.
Kerr, who had invited Kenny 25 years ago to gain insight into international games, admitted that they haven’t been out for tea since but have had numerous discussions. He added that he had always supported every manager of the club and would never criticise any. Adding further, he said that he would be open to assisting if he’s approached despite being a staunch supporter of the club and the only one he’s ever managed.
Expressing hope for Kenny’s success at the club, his sixth in the League of Ireland, Kerr mentioned the injury of Anto Breslin. Breslin, the club’s only left-back according to Kenny, is uncertain for the Friday’s trip to Dalymount, given that the St Pat’s are keen to avoid their 10th defeat of the season.
Kenny praised Damien’s third season at Shelbourne, noting an improvement every year and recognising them as a well-bonded team. He expressed this as a contrast to St Patrick’s Athletic., suggesting there is a lack of unity. He acknowledged the situation as a challenge but something that comes with his job.