Irish Cup final can still be season’s showpiece says Ballymena United chairman John Taggart

Ballymena United chairman John Taggart views any option to finish the Danske Bank Premiership season on the pitch as unrealistic - but stands hopeful an Irish Cup final can still serve as a 2020 showpiece fixture.
Ballymena United chairman John Taggart , with the League Cup in 2017. Pic by PressEye Ltd.Ballymena United chairman John Taggart , with the League Cup in 2017. Pic by PressEye Ltd.
Ballymena United chairman John Taggart , with the League Cup in 2017. Pic by PressEye Ltd.

Clubs are expected to face a vote this week on options to complete the current campaign following NIFL Steering Group proposals.

Ballymena sit 10th in the senior standings following a March fixture freeze - but have an Irish Cup semi-final tie with Coleraine as a key outstanding game.

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“I’m not aware of a meeting scheduled with clubs and have not seen any official proposals, but based on those speculated options, I cannot see any practical way we can return to finish the season,” said Taggart. “We have not had the green light from the NI Executive regarding any return schedule and health and safety is the priority.

“Options suggested include playing two games so every side has faced each other three times but for the majority of clubs the league is no longer a concern.

“The costs of implementing the protocols required to prepare grounds and pay players would be damaging to some clubs, for games of little significance bar the suggestion it adheres to a sense of sporting integrity.

“I think time is running out to put anything in place for a finish to this season within the suggested timescale and any of the significant steps towards health-and-safety protocols and return to training must be viewed as preparations for next season.

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“But I still feel we can give everyone the traditional Irish Cup final day out by postponing until later in the year at a point crowds might return.

“Everyone loves the Irish Cup final and I’m sure it’s possible to hold off to until a time we can complete the competition in the right way for the fans.

“In terms of European football, my concern is not about ending Ballymena’s potential qualification route as Irish Cup winners by delaying - this is bigger than the interests of any one club.

“As I cannot see it possible to play out this league season, I’m happy for the standings to determine our three European qualifiers to access the financial rewards, which can then be distributed across clubs.

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“This is an opportunity to help protect the future of our clubs and the game by making responsible decisions, I’m sure we can find a way in these unprecedented times to make adjustments that will ultimately help everyone.”

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