Whistle while you work!

PENALTY REF! Tony Philliskirk takes charge

 ATHLETIC’S popular Academy manager Tony Philliskirk was back in the middle on Sunday, when officials were in short supply for the under-16s’ friendly match against Blackpool at Chapel Road.

A qualified and highly-experienced referee, Philliskirk was happy to get out his whistle and cards when County Cup fixtures and other assessments meant many regular officials were unavailable.

Philliskirk said: “I had no hesitation in reffing the game. Both managers were happy for me to officiate, and to be honest I thought I did okay.

“I even gave our team a penalty in the last five minutes, but to be fair to Blackpool there were no complaints. I enjoyed it; I suffered a bit on Monday morning, though!

Athletic won 2-0. Brad Kay scored in the first half, then Lee Knight tucked away the late penalty to wrap up victory.

Philliskirk (49) took up refereeing during his playing days. He officiated at Northern Premier League level when playing for Macclesfield Town in 1998 - shortly after which he gave it up to join Athletic manager Andy Ritchie as a membr of the Boundary Park coaching staff.