Following the unfortunate events surrounding last Friday’s McCook Cup Final, all member clubs must note the following basic rules:

Any team drawn to play a home fixture is responsible for ensuring their pitch is match ready.  That means it is lined correctly, nets erected and full access to the changing rooms available in good time for kick off.  If the referee is not satisfied with the park’s condition then he or she has the ability to cancel the game and report the home club to the Association.  It is highly unlikely that such games will be rescheduled, plus the match official’s travel costs must still be paid on the night.

Similarly, clubs hosting cup finals must treat the games as if they were a home fixture, regardless of whether or not they are taking part.  Failure to do so will not be viewed favourable by the Association.

These are in no way draconian rules: merely matters of common sense and basic courtesy.