Irish Cup Final 2022

MATCH OFFICIALS

Words Nigel Tilson

Tony Clarke Referee

Refereeing is in Tony’s blood. His father was a referee. He began officiating in the Northern Amateur Football League in 2012 and was promoted to intermediate level after his first season. He remained there for two seasons before being promoted again to NIFL Championship level in 2015. After two seasons officiating in the Championship he was promoted once more, this time to the

experience through exchange programmes with England andMalta. I've also had fourth official opportunities in UEFA Under-21 Euro qualifiers and UEFA Europa League matches.” This season he has been involved in all three senior domestic finals in Northern Ireland. He was the referee for the Country AntrimShield decider between Linfield and Larne, fourth official at the League Cup final between Cliftonville and Coleraine, and now ref for today’s game. “It is an honour, privilege and extremely satisfying to complete the hat-trick in taking charge of the showpiece Irish Cup Final,” he added.

Premiership Elite Match Officials panel. He says his promotion and development over the past 10 years is a result of determination and hard work on and off the pitch. He explained: “Refereeing has givenme the opportunity to represent my association andmy country and has seenme gain a place in the top panel of officials in the country. “Over my career I’ve been involved inmany junior, intermediate and senior finals and I’ve gained

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