Cambridge United match to be officiated by serving members of the armed forces

The football club will mark Remembrance Day with an EFL first

Cambridge United are without a win since SeptemberBen Phillips

by Ben Phillips

Wednesday November 9 2022, 2:44pm

The U’s are back in league action this Saturday (12/11), facing Bolton Wanderers at The Abbey in what will be the club's annual Remembrance fixture.

Cambridge United are without a league victory since their 2-1 win at Morecambe in September (24/9). The U’s are still without a couple of key players, including goalkeeper Dimitar Mitov and midfielder Adam May, both out with long-term injuries. The U’s most recent fixture was a disappointing 0-0 draw in the first round of the FA Cup last Sunday (6/11) at National League North side, Curzon Ashton.

Bolton crashed out of the FA Cup last weekend against Barnsley, and are currently sixth in League One. They will be looking to boost their chances of promotion against Cambridge this weekend.

This game is important for other reasons, too. It will be the first time in EFL history that all four officials are serving members of the armed forces. Refereeing the match will be RAF sergeant Darren Drysdale, who was appointed to the national list of referees in 2004. Also making up the team of officials are the corporal Declan O’Shea, captain Steve Finch (both assistant referees), and the Royal Navy’s petty officer Scott Jackson (fourth official).

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Both clubs' players and staff will come together before the match to honour the sacrifices made by service men and women across the United Kingdom. There will be wreaths laid on the edge of the centre circle by representatives of each club before a minute's silence and the playing of the Last Post.

Fans attending the fixture this weekend are also reminded to bring their loose change to contribute to the Royal British Legion's collection on behalf of the Poppy Appeal.

Cambridge United vs Bolton Wanderers kicks off at 3pm on Saturday (12/11). Tickets for the game can be bought here: https://www.cambridgeunited.com/tickets/

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