Tuesday night takes us to Southend for another National League clash and our match official is, Abigail Byrne.
Which in itself, is not a particularly interesting thing.
But, what is interesting is the only Yeovil game she’s ever taken charge of is this exact fixture from back in November 2024. A 1-0 Yeovil Town win at Southend – the one where James Plant scored from a very deliberate shot, not a cross, honestly.
What’s even MORE interesting is that she made a few headlines that afternoon, sending off Shrimpers’ goal keeper Zak Jeacock early on in the game – a red card that would go on to be rescinded.
She then sent off Southend boss, Kevin Maher. After the game he said;
“I appealed for a penalty and the fourth official said you can’t do that because my arms were up.
“I thought the referee lost control of the game after 10 minutes and the rest of it was a consequence of that. Both benches were appealing for things, no one swore at anyone.”
For what it’s worth, four Yeovil players also saw yellow; namely Charlie Cooper, Finn Cousin-Dawson, Jake Wannell and Alex Whittle.
Oh to be a fly on the wall when the team sheets are exchanged.
Byrne is actually a very highly thought of official, she’s taken charge of many, many top level matches in the women’s game and international fixtures too, and has even refereed Soccer Aid. If she can keep up with Usain Bolt, the pace of play in this one will be no trouble.
This season, 29 games have seen 103 yellows issued, four reds and eight penalties.
She’ll be assisted by Chris Myatt and Michael Haydown with Andrew Aylott on fourth official duties… he’ll be the one copping the grief from the managers!
Southend United FC (First Team) v Yeovil Town FC (First Team)
National League – Premier
Referee: Byrne, Abigail
Assistant Referee: Myatt, Christopher
Assistant Referee: Hayden, Michael
Fourth Official: Aylott, Andrew