History beckons for referee Hay

MHAIRI Hay will become the first Scottish woman referee to officiate a full international rugby match when England Women face Italy tomorrow.

Hay will take charge in Noceta a week on from officiating Scotland A Women's defeat by the French A Women (3-26) last Saturday at Lasswade, and will be joined by fellow Scottish female referee Alex Pratt, who will run touch at the same match.

"I am very happy to take part in the game this weekend, and a little apprehensive, too," said Hay. "I know my two assistant referees, they will both do a great job and I'm sure they'll help me out."