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22 Oct 2025
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22 Oct 2025
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The incident took place at Meadowbank Sports Arena in 2016.
A 28-year-old man who got involved in a row with his team mate over an impromptu penalty shoot-out at training has been handed a suspended sentence as a result of the incident.
Brian Johnston, of Hillmount Park, Tobermore, entered a guilty plea in relation to the offence, which took place almost five years ago at Meadowbank Sports Arena, Magherafelt.
Johnston had met up with his team mates at the sports facility between 8.30 and 9.00pm on October 26 2016 when the group were preparing for training at the venue.
The defendant had placed the ball on the spot, when a team mate kicked the ball away, and when he placed it for a second time, a different team mate did the same.
On the third occasion, Johnston punched the injured party with a closed fist, fracturing his jaw and was subsequently arrested for causing grievous bodily harm.
Defence for Johnston pointed out he had admitted to the charge during interview and drew attention to the five-year gap between the incident and the sentencing.
They said the defendant had been in a fragile state of mind at the time of the incident, and earlier that day had been receiving bereavement counselling.
He had no record of violence and had simply lashed out, they told the court.
The court heard how Mr Johnston had since given up playing football to avoid the risk of a similar incident, and now led a significantly different life than he had in 2016.
Judge Dunlop said it was clear the defendant had been in a 'bad place' at the time of the offence. He sentenced him to four months' imprisonment, suspended for a period of two years.
Johnston was also ordered to pay compensation of £300 to the injured party.
Lisa pictured with her parents Geraldine and Peter
Derry-born comedian Diona Doherty will host the event in Dungiven this Saturday.
Elaine Doherty (Volunteer Investment Project/Féile), Robert Martin (Derry City FC), Karen Mullan (Foyle Network Foundation/Foyle Foodbank).
Pictured are some of those who participated in the festival.
SLT staff raising awareness in local health centres and hospitals for DLD.
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