Donegal referee Mark Dorrian is unlikely to receive any Christmas cards from Wexford fans after he awarded Leitrim a controversial penalty in the closing stages of last Sunday’s Allianz Football League encounter at Páirc Sean Mac Diarmada.

With the visitors defending a 2-9 to 2-7 lead, Leitrim’s Ryan O’Rourke floated in a high ball which was contested by Gavin Sheehan (Wexford) and Barry McNulty (Leitrim). Wexford wing back Eoin Porter came away with possession, but Dorrian – in what was his first inter-county assignment – awarded a penalty, much to the astonishment of the visitors.

O’Rourke slotted home the penalty to give Leitrim a dramatic 3-7 to 2-9 victory, putting a huge dent in Wexford’s hopes of securing promotion from Division 4 in the process.

Taking to social media, former Wexford ‘keeper Anthony Masterson said: “I thought Liam Spratt (South East Radio commentator) was being biased on the radio when he was complaining about the penalty, but this is tough to watch … Such a crucial time of the game. Surely, a ref has to be 100% certain there’s been a foul.

Another former Wexford player, Adrian Flynn, blasted: “Absolutely shocking decision that cost Wexford today and potentially a shot at promotion,” while even ex-Leitrim sharpshooter Emlyn Mulligan felt the decision was harsh: “Delighted for us obviously to get the win today but on an officiating side of things, this is a shocking call!”

I thought @liam_lspratt was being biased on the radio when he was complaining about the penalty but this is tough to watch … Such a crucial time of the game surely a ref has to be 100% certain there’s been a foul 🤷🏻‍♂️ https://t.co/Pb0SF3ErCo

— Anthony Masterson (@antomasterson1) February 18, 2024

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