Irish Cup Final appraisal

Following correspondence with the Irish Football Association regarding the share of the gate receipts from last season’s Irish Cup Final, a meeting was arranged last week with the IFA President, Conrad Kirkwood, the IFA Chief Executive, Patrick Nelson, representatives of Linfield FC and ourselves.

At the meeting, both ourselves and Linfield expressed our extreme disappointment at the share of ticket sales the Clubs received. Both Clubs challenged the level of expenditure by the IFA on several items and costs which the Clubs were in reality having to pay themselves as Finalists. Whilst the IFA acknowledged the contribution both Clubs had in making their Final such an occasion, it is therefore disappointing to report that the IFA made no concession to the minimal amount both Clubs received as their share of the gate receipts.

Cliftonville also raised two other matters at the meeting. Firstly, in regards to the playing of ‘God Save the King’. The IFA were reminded of their 2018 public commitment to review such matters with all stakeholders, something that has not happened, and we were assured by the President that the matter would now be brought to the IFA Board.

Secondly, a number of safety and security matters at the Cup Final had been brought to our attention by many supporters. Cliftonville had previously brought evidence of these to the IFA Disciplinary Committee. Believing these to be of serious concern, we have subsequently raised this matter with both the President and Chief Executive directly. We have received an assurance from both that these will be fully investigated. Once this begins, we will fully engage with the IFA to help ensure not just the safety and security of Cliftonville supporters attending the stadium, but indeed the safety of all football supporters