The branch has written to each club to remind them of the consequences of failing to fulfill their fixtures, noting that what it describes as “a disturbing pattern” has re-emerged this season, particularly with reference to Cork-based teams travelling to Limerick.

Terming such instances as “unfair” and “inconsiderate behaviour”, MBIHA fixtures committee chairman Dermot Judge noted that such instances are a turn-off for players, volunteers and supporters, and that club officials’ time and pitch time is being wasted.

“The MBIHA expect all clubs to ensure that all their fixtures are fulfilled, especially those involving travel. These rules (dealing with forefits) are being enforced in the hope that in future clubs will fulfill their fixtures instead of facing these penalties and so the host clubs losses are reduced,” he said.

“We understand that clubs and officials in the traveling teams are in many cases let down by their members, but ultimately we expect that the clubs instill in their players the responsibility of all teams fulfilling all fixtures using what methods they can (such as) rearranging matches well in advance if there are issues with a particular date.”

“We would hope to make forfeited matches a thing of the past – primarily so that all players an volunteers in Munster are treated fairly and get to play their matches. If clubs enter teams in a division then they should complete their fixtures in that division.”

While welcoming further suggestions as to how matters could be improved, Mr Judge reminded clubs of the penalties incurred if matches are forfeited.

These include the opposition being awarded a win, while the offending team is deducted one points for the first offence in a season, two for the second and three for the third.

They also lose home advantage for their next league or cup tie against the opposition in question – a sanction that can carry over to the next season if necessary, are fined €50 are shall be liable for justifiable rent for the reverse fixture.