Sam Allison has become the first black referee to take charge of a game in the Premier League for 15 years and only the second ever.
The former firefighter had a dramatic debut, as he oversaw Luton Town’s 3-2 away win over fellow strugglers Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.
The hosts were leading 2-1 but scored two own goals in the last 13 minutes.
Allison, 42, became the first black man to referee a match in England’s top division since Uriah Rennie in 2008.
He mostly stayed away from controversy, apart from a contentious decision to award a corner in the build-up to the first of United’s own goals by Jack Robinson.
Allison booked five players but didn’t send anyone off and was under the microscope for Sheffield United’s second goal which needed a VAR check before his decision was confirmed.
Speaking before the match, BAMRef – which offers guidance, support, mentoring and counselling to black, Asian and mixed heritage referees – said: “We welcome this appointment.
“It is a further step in the right direction towards refereeing reflecting society and the playing contingent within football.
“It is…
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Source: news.sky.com
This notice was published: 2023-12-26 17:00:00
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