CONDITIONS HALT MATCH

SCOTSTOWN manager David McCague questioned the decision to abandon yesterday's Ulster Club SFC semifinal against Newbridge with his side four points ahead at halftime in Omagh.

- BY PADDY TIERNEY

Referee Joe McQuillan brought both managements out for a pitch inspection ahead of the second half and the Cavan whistler was left with little option but to deem the Healy Park pitch unplayable.

A goal from Mattie Maguire had helped the Monaghan champions to a1-4 to 0-3 lead at the break with both teams struggling to control the ball in the heavy rain and driving wind.

To compound matters, the Tyrone venue had already staged an earlier game with Glenullin of Derry beating Monaghan champions Carrickmacross after extra-time in the Ulster IFC semifinal.

McCague said his players, understandably, wanted to continue, but they respect McQuillan's decision to bring the game to a halt.