Shamrock Rovers will be able to play their opening league game in front of a large crowd at Tallaght Stadium after the FAI "set aside" the decision to play the game behind closed doors.
The Hoops were punished for the actions of a member of their travelling support away at Waterford last season when fireworks disrupted the end-of-season encounter, resulting in the first home game being set to be played behind closed doors.
However, a statement released by the FAI today confirmed that Rovers will be able to welcome fans to their clash with UCD on 18 February, although the fine imposed on the Dublin club has been increased to €5,000.
The FAI statement read: "The Football Association of Ireland can confirm the conclusion to the investigation around a fireworks incident at the Waterford FC v Shamrock Rovers FC fixture on November 5th last.
"This matter has progressed through the Association's judicial process and an independent Appeal Committee has now ruled that the original decision to play the Shamrock Rovers FC v UCD AFC game on February 18th behind closed doors be set aside and the fine imposed on Shamrock Rovers FC be increased to €5,000."
With just over a week to go to our return to the Premier Division we are delighted that supporters will now be permitted for our game vs @ShamrockRovers with the decision to play the game in Tallaght behind closed doors overturned! Ticket details to be confirmed! 🔵⚽️ #COYBIB pic.twitter.com/w68KtBMwM2
— UCD AFC (@UCDAFC) February 9, 2022
Both Shamrock Rovers and UCD have welcomed the FAI's decision ahead of the start of the new SSE Airtricity League Premier Division season.
"Shamrock Rovers FC. welcomes the decision announced today by the FAI that Shamrock Rovers will kick off the new season at Tallaght Stadium against UCD on Friday February 18th with fans in attendance," said a club statement.
Speaking at the launch of this season's Airtricity League, Hoops boss Stephen Bradley told RTÉ Sport: "Credit goes to the club because they've appealed and won the case.
"I'm delighted for the fans who've waited so long to see live football again. We can have a big crowd against UCD now.
"I understand there had to be punishment because of the incident, but I felt the ban was a bit severe. Are we delighted with the fine? Obviously not. But we have to pay it.
"Hopefully we don't have any incidents like that going forward."
UCD, via their social media channels said: "We are delighted that supporters will now be permitted for our game vs Shamrock Rovers".
