Football Trade Directory

Armed Forces officials to take charge of League 1 match

All 4 officials for Saturday's League 1 match between Cambridge United and Bolton Wanderers will be from the armed forces. 

The League One fixture will take place during Remembrance Weekend and it is the first time officials from all three services have been represented.

RAF Sergeant Darren Drysdale will referee the match, assisted by Army Corporal Declan O'Shea and Captain Steve Finch.

The Royal Navy's Chief Petty Officer Scott Jackson will be fourth official.

A poppy wreath will be laid at the edge of the centre circle in a ceremony before kick-off, to be followed by a minute's silence and the playing of the Last Post.

Assistant referee O'Shea said: "We are all indebted to the Army, RAF and Royal Navy for the amount of support we have all received to allow us to reach the professional level on the football pyramid, whilst also being on rotations for deployments and operations.

"There will be something quite moving stood shoulder to shoulder during the pre-match ceremonies with guys that have lived through and felt the emotion of sacrifice on operations.

"It will be a special moment. But shortly after, when the first whistle goes, it's business as usual."

Posted in Club news on