Setanta delay cup decision

SETANTA HAVE said they will make a decision on the future of the Setanta Sports Cup by July 9th. The broadcaster insists it is keen to maintain its support for the cross-Border competition, but that it needs two weeks to assess its own situation in the wake of the crisis with its sister company in Britain.

Representatives of the company were due to meet officials from the two associations and the nine clubs scheduled to compete in this year’s tournament at the FAI’s headquarters yesterday, but in the end the station sent only a written communication requesting the additional time to make its position known.

In a statement issued by the competition’s organising committee, the broadcaster was said to have insisted it remains “positively disposed”, and company officials said they would remain in contact with the parties as they seek to stabilise their situation.

The clubs are said to be keen to take part in the event, but the sense at the meeting was that the associations will not be stepping in to provide the required funding.

The impending start of Uefa’s Europa League has prompted Sligo Rovers and Derry City to switch some of their League of Ireland games from Friday to Sunday. Derry’s game at the Brandywell against Cork City has been pushed back 48 hours from July 10th to 12th, while Sligo’s home matches against Drogheda United, Cork and St Patrick’s Athletic have been similarly changed.