Football NSW Referees set to take part in 2020 A-League Grand Final

Football NSW Referees Kearney Robinson, Scott Edeling and Kris Griffiths-Jones have all won appointments for this Sunday’s Hyundai A-League Grand Final clash between Sydney FC and Melbourne City to be played at Bankwest Stadium.

Both Robinson and Edeling have been confirmed as the game’s Assistant Referees, a first in both their careers, while experienced whistle-blower Griffiths-Jones will take charge of VAR – Chris Beath will be the main man as the official match referee.

Twenty-eight-year-old Robinson, who is also Football NSW’s Community Referees Development Officer and came through the Gladesville-Hornsby now North West Sydney Referees Branch, was thrilled upon receiving the news that he was set to officiate in the big game on Sunday.

“I was super surprised when I received the call.

“It is a massive honour and I am fortunate to be able to have my friends and family that will be present on the big day supporting me as well.

“It’s a quick turnaround between games in this COVID environment but I’m sure I’ll have enough time for it to sink in and get through my usual match preparation.”

While thirty-one-year-old experienced assistant referee Edeling, a former St George Football Referees and now Hills Football Referees Branch member, equally was overjoyed with the appointment.

“I am over the moon!

“I was surprised when I got the call today, after many years of refereeing on the Hyundai A-League, to say I’m going to be part of a Grand Final is a huge honour and I’m fortunate enough to be able to have my family and friends there.

“I just want to get out there and do my very best and make everyone proud.”

Griffiths-Jones, Football NSW’s Referees Manager, was looking forward to the challenge and excitement this Sunday and was pleased with the state receiving these appointments.

“I’m really pleased for our NSW Match Officials.

“I’d like to thank Football NSW for their on-going commitment and investment in refereeing over the past few years and it’s clear that the rewards are now starting to come through.

“On a personal note, it’s great to be part of the day. “