The Down County board has issued a statement condemning the actions of whoever was responsible for flying a plane with a banner attached during Sunday’s Ulster SFC clash with Donegal at Páirc Esler.
The Mournemen booked their place in the provincial semi-final with a 2-13 to 1-11 win over Donegal, but a bizarre incident diverted attention away from the action during the first half.
The banner in question was directed at Down GAA secretary Seán Óg McAteer.
Read more: Recap as Down clinch Ulster SFC semi-final berth with five-point win over Donegal
The noise from the aircraft was audible for those inside the ground and was also picked up on television with the game being broadcast live on BBC NI.
A number of Down GAA personalities took to social media on Sunday night, including hurling manager Ronan Sheehan and former Down star Mark Poland, to offer their support to McAteer and Down issued their own statement on the matter.
“We hope that all spectators who attended today’s Ulster Senior Football Championship quarter-final in Newry enjoyed their afternoon,” the statement read.
“We congratulate our team and management, and we look forward to the semi-final next weekend and the U20 final on Wednesday.
“We regret that the vindictive actions of an individual, who arranged for a banner to be flown above the ground during the first half of the senior game, was an attempt to tarnish the occasion.
“It is clear to everyone that this was the action of someone who could not be regarded as a true supporter of Down and the GAA.
“We value the trojan work and dedication of our County Secretary Seán Óg McAteer and of all our officers and volunteers, and we would encourage the individual behind this stunt to put their time and resources to better use.”
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