Two Cambridgeshire officials became part of history at this year’s Soccer Aid fixture, as they formed part of the event’s first-ever all-female refereeing team.

Nicoleta Bria and Abi Byrne are both referees registered with Cambridgeshire FA. 

Abi was referee for the game between England and World XI at Old Trafford on Sunday 11 June, as former professionals and names from the world of showbiz came together to play a match in aid of Unicef.

Meanwhile, Nicoleta acted as one of two assistant referees, as Georgia Ball (assistant referee) and Jane Sims (fourth official) made up the rest of the officiating team.

All four officials oversaw an entertaining fixture, which saw World XI emerge 4-2 winners thanks to goals from former Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane (2), Love Island contentant Kem Cetinay and sprint legend Usain Bolt.

Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes and actor Asa Butterfield netted England’s goals.

Congratulations to Abi and Nicoleta!

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