The standard of League of Ireland refereeing has improved a lot since 1988, thankfully

To say that the penalty which decided that year’s FAI Cup final was soft is an understatement.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wPKKpU5gNeE

YouTube Credit: Doleary1

WAS THIS THE softest penalty ever awarded in the League of Ireland?

In the 72nd minute of the 1988 FAI Cup final, Dundalk were inexplicably awarded this penalty after veteran referee John Spillane somehow judged Martin Bayly to have fouled Larry Wyse.

John Cleary stepped up to slot the spotter for the Lilywhites who went on to win 1-0 and seal a league and cup double.

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Niall Kelly

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