Derry GAA senior relegation play-offs scrapped despite clubs' appeal failing

The two clubs had appealed against the play-offs taking place, claiming the introduction of a seeded draw for the four ties represented a change of rule midway through an ongoing competition, something which is against current GAA rules. The appeal meant the four play-offs, originally scheduled to take place last weekend involving eight clubs, were postponed pending the two clubs' appeal. However, at an Ulster GAA hearing on Tuesday evening, that appeal was thrown meaning the play-offs could have proceeded.

However, given the uncertainty caused by the delay, the Derry County Board this morning (Wednesday) issued a letter to clubs stating the ties would no longer go ahead in the interests of player welfare and with doubts over the potential scheduling of the re-fixed ties in the calendar. It means discussion will now have to take place with all clubs regarding the league and championship structures for next season.

"Ulster GAA Hearings Committee last night ruled the appeals brought by St Colm's Ballinascreen and Eoghan Rua, Coleraine as out of order," read the statement.

"However, due to the uncertainty that the appeals created and the delay introduced into the fixtures schedule, Derry CCC have decided, in the interests of player welfare, to cancel the planned relegation games for 2022."Derry CCC will engage with all clubs regarding arrangements for the 2023 season and beyond."