Reds call on IFA to change process after Burrows case

Cliftonville have called on the Irish Football Association (IFA) to review its process of how suspensions are communicated after Reds captain Kelsie Burrows was cleared of assaulting a match official.

On the IFA's website, Burrows' ban was listed as 16 matches for "assault on a match official (whether or not causing bodily harm)" after Cliftonville's Women's Premiership win over Glentoran on 25 July.

The Northern Ireland defender was shown a red card by referee Simon Bickerstaff after the incident involving one of his assistants.

However, she was cleared of the initial charge after Cliftonville's successful 'obvious error challenge' to the County Antrim FA disciplinary committee.

As a result, Burrows' red card still stands and she now faces a shorter two-match ban on a reclassified offence.

On Tuesday, Burrows said "the stress of being accused of something I knew I didn't do was incredibly emotionally difficult".

While Cliftonville said the club were "pleased" that their 'obvious error challenge' was successful, they asked the IFA to review "how such matters are communicated on their website".

"We believe that only the final outcomes of the disciplinary process, once exhausted, should be reported," added the club's statement.

"Issuing lists of offences and associated sanctions while a process is under way gives a misleading impression, particularly when such serious offences are stated, as was the case in this instance.

"Publishing what appears to be a final position can lead to issues beyond football for the person concerned, both in their personal life and work environment. We ask the IFA to give this due consideration."

The IFA has been approached for comment.

Burrows, who represented Northern Ireland at the 2022 Euros, said she was "relieved and appreciative" that Cliftonville's challenge was successful.

"The original sanction was not only going to affect my ability to play the sport I love, but it also took a significant toll on my mental and social well-being," added the former Blackburn and Linfield player.

"The stress of being accused of something I knew I didn't do was incredibly emotionally difficult, and it placed strain on my relationships both on and off the pitch.

"I'm proud to represent both Cliftonville and Northern Ireland, and I've always tried to conduct myself with professionalism and respect for the game.

"I'm thankful the challenge process acknowledged the full context of the incident, and I now look forward to moving on and continuing to give everything for my club and country."