featured-image

Damien Duff is ready to challenge the red card shown to goalkeeping coach Paul Skinner in the closing seconds of Shelbourne’s dramatic injury-time win away to Dublin rivals St Patrick’s Athletic. Skinner was sent off by referee Rob Hennessy in the midst of what Duff described as a “melee” - but the Reds boss insisted his coach was innocent of any wrongdoing. The Tolka Park chief desperately wants Skinner to be available for Friday’s clash with Shamrock Rovers - but as it stands he will have to serve a suspension on that night.

“It was just for celebrating,” replied Duff, when asked about the incident. “I think he slipped, so I think there has been a misunderstanding. “It's a really important position because we need him to warm up Conor (Kearns) on Friday and going forward.



“I'm not sure why he was sent off. Paul is a brilliant brilliant guy and he slipped, I think (Shels midfielder) John O'Sullivan jumped on his back. “There was a melee down the bottom of the steps, but it was nothing to do with Paul.

“I'm really surprised. I'll have to speak to the relevant people to see how we fight it because we need Paul and he's done nothing wrong.” Evan Caffrey’s winner in the sixth minute of injury-time led to chaotic scenes, as Shels players celebrated in front of their fans and the Reds bench spilled out onto the pitch.

Duff appeared ready to race down towards the away end, but stopped himself just short of the St Pat’s bench. The game ended moments lat.

Back to Beauty Page