A referee has spoken of his pride after being appointed to take charge of an FA Cup tie.
It is believed Rob Slinger is the first locally developed official to referee a game in the world’s oldest cup competition.
Rob, a level four North West Counties referee, will oversee the preliminary round fixture between Wythenshawe Town and Prestwich Heys on 2 August.
Massive
Speaking about the appointment, Rob said: “It’s massive, it’s possibly one of the biggest games in my career as a referee.
“Just to be getting the email from the English FA to say, congratulations, you’ve achieved an appointment to the Emirates FA Cup, it was exciting.”
He added: “I didn’t think I’d get it, but you work hard for it. Normally we’d get either a line on it or maybe a fourth official, but I’m actually refereeing it.”
Support
Rob, who runs the line in the Northern Premier League, also highlighted the growing support for his career, including travel assistance from the Steam Packet.
He said: “They’re assisting with travel through the sports scheme. It’s saved me a lot of money.”
Reflecting on recent experiences, including officiating alongside Premier League referee Sunny Singh Gill, Rob said: “It’s an experience, you’re with a guy that’s a professional. We were on comms, able to listen to how he communicates with players, his decision-making.
“It was unreal and will help me develop faster through this season and push me on.”
He added: “It gives you that buzz to want to step up. It’s achievable for everyone on the Isle of Man to get to my level and above.”
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