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Controversy

Jim Gavin: 'I can’t control the referee. I’m sure he did his best'

Controversial Fermanagh goal leaves Dubs boss scratching his head.

Quigley shoves Cluxton into the net for Fermanagh's first goal. Morgan Treacy / INPHO Morgan Treacy / INPHO / INPHO

JIM GAVIN CALLED for greater consistency from GAA officials last night after Dublin fell foul of a refereeing controversy.

The Dubs booked their place in the All-Ireland semis with an eight-point win over Fermanagh.

But there was uproar in Croke Park as they conceded a goal for the first time in this year’s championship.

Keeper Stephen Cluxton was pushed back over the line by Sean Quigley and rather than award a Dublin free, referee Pádraig O’Sullivan allowed the goal to stand after consulting with his umpire.

fermanagh-goal RTÉ.ie RTÉ.ie

“I didn’t realise you could tackle the goalkeeper in Gaelic football,” a frustrated Gavin said after the 2-23 to 2-15 win.

“That’s the interpretation that was made today and you can’t change it in that moment of the game. You’ve just got to roll with it and get on with it.

“Players, managers and supporters only ask for consistency. I’m sure the referee did his best today but all you’re asking for is consistency. And if you get that, most people will be happy.”

The final free count was 21-4 in Fermanagh’s favour and Gavin agreed afterwards that his side struggled to catch a break.

We did, yeah, but once the game is on I can’t control the referee. It’s his interpretation. I’m sure he did his best.

“Whatever frustrations were in the crowd, I thought our players held their composure and tried to be the best they could be. It didn’t happen in the last quarter but over the expanse of the game, we’re happy with the win.”

5 talking points as Dublin book their place in the All-Ireland semis

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