FAI launch match-fixing investigation into Bray Wanderers and Waterford friendly
Credit: Peter Fitzpatrick (ETPhotos)
The FAI has launched a fresh investigation into suspected match-fixing in relation to last Friday's club friendly between Bray Wanderers and Waterford at the Carlisle Grounds.
The association announced in a statement issued late on Wednesday evening that an investigation had been opened 'following a complaint' and that An Garda Síochána have been notified.
The match in question finished 5-0 to the visitors Waterford, who led 3-0 at the break and added two further goals, including a penalty, after the break.
It's the latest controversy to engulf the club this season after chairman Denis O'Connor resigned in July following a breakdown in his relationship with majority owner Gerry Mulvey.
Mulvey later released a number of bizarre statements in which he compared the local County Council to North Korea due to their unwillingness to redevelop the stadium commercially.
Bray issued a short statement acknowledging the investigation and stating they would cooperate fully with Gardaí.
The news comes just days after the association concluded its four-month investigation into Athlone Town's Igors Labuts and Dragos Sfrijan, which resulted in 12-month bans for both players.
Those charges related to an April 29th First Division match between Athlone and Longford Town during which UEFA's Betting Fraud Detection System noted serious irregular betting patterns.
The verdict drew heavy criticism from both the club and the Professional Footballers' Association of Ireland, which represents them, and they are believed to have appealed the sanctions.
FAI Statement on Bray Wanderers v Waterford:
The Football Association of Ireland has launched an investigation into alleged match-fixing surrounding the friendly match between Bray Wanderers FC and Waterford FC on Friday, September 8 at the Carlisle Grounds.
Upon receipt of a complaint the FAI notified An Garda Siochanna [sic] and the Association has now launched an investigation into alleged breaches of FAI Rules.
The FAI has a zero tolerance policy to match-fixing.
Bray Wanderers Statement:
Bray Wanderers FC wish to acknowledge that they are aware of an investigation by An Garda Siochana into a recent fixture involving the Club.
We are cooperating fully and will be making no further comment until the investigation is completed and we have been presented with the findings.
