Year 11 pupils take charge of cup final

Three Priory pupils will be in control of a cup final on Sunday where they hope they don’t have to show any cards! 

Year 11 Jack is the referee while Ryan and Head Prefect, Taylor, are his assistants for the Under 12 John Harrison Memorial Cup which will be played on Massey’s Playing Fields between Euxton Villa Silver and Myerscough Reds this weekend. 

Central Lancs Junior Football League (CLJFL) Secretary Callum Hayes said: “This is a reward for their high levels of commitment, performance and administration throughout the 2022/23 season, for which the CLJFL Management Committee are incredibly grateful.” 

All have been refereeing in the CLJFL – which goes up to Under 16 level - for around a year. 

Jack, who also plays for Cadley, said: “I got my Level 7 refereeing qualification from the Lancashire Football Association around a year ago. I find refereeing really interesting. I like to think I am strong but fair.” 

Ryan gained his qualification from UCLan. “I like being a leader and it’s good when people listen to you. It tends to be a good role and we get paid!” 

Taylor got his Level 7 qualification via the Liverpool FA. “It’s a different point of view than when you are playing and I would like to carry it on. We all get on together so hopefully it will be a good game!” 

Greig is Ryan’s dad and he coaches at Under 12 level in the CLJFL. He said: “I have had all three of them referee at least one of my games this season. Their attitude, integrity and professionalism towards the game is brilliant. It’s great they have been awarded a cup final by the league.”