Monaghan boss Gabriel Bannigan cut a frustrated figure after the new hooter rule overshadowed his side’s narrow Ulster SFC quarter-final defeat to Donegal.

Having trailed by eight points in the first half, the Farney County had reduced the deficit to two and were pushing for a two-pointer to force extra-time when the final hooter sounded just as Ryan O’Toole was about to take a line ball. Monaghan believed they were entitled to another play, but referee David Coldrick blew his final whistle.

It sparked much anger and confusion among the home supporters in Clones, but it was later clarified that the Meath official was right to blow it up when he did.

"Ryan took the line ball and then the game was blown. Our understanding was that we had that play, but I could be wrong on that and we could all be wrong on that," Bannigan told reporters.

"I know if it's a ‘45 [and the hooter goes] you definitely get to take a ‘45. I thought it was the same for the line ball, but I could be wrong on that. Whether I am or am not, the game is over."

His opposite number Jim McGuinness said: "My understanding is that the hooter went while the ball was in the air so when the ball was punched for the sideline ball, then technically they punched the ball out of play after the hooter, and that was the clarification we got.

"We’re all getting used to all that as well, but you just have to suck it up as I’m sure there are going to be plenty of talking points between now and July."

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