The Referee

Uriah Rennie made his way to the Premiership through the Northern League.  He made history when he became the first black referee to officiate in the top flight when he took charge of the Crystal Palace vs Leeds game in 1997.  He gained FIFA Status in 2000. In 2001 he refereed the play off final between Bolton & Preston North End.In November 2005, he was mentioned in a remark by a stadium announcer at a Football League Championship match between Preston North End and Crystal Palace. It was announced over the tannoy as the teams came back onto the pitch after half time; “Welcome to the second half of the Uriah Rennie show” in response to Rennie not giving two penalty decisions in favour of Preston.  His refereeing came under criticism yet again on 16 December 2006 after Southampton’s 2-0 victory over Norwich, with Norwich manager Peter Grant claiming: “It’s scandalous the way he talks to players. He shows them no respect, and yet expects respect back. With this referee it’s all about him. People come to watch the players and be entertained, not to watch the referee.”When Rennie first burst on to the scene he was known for his fitness and is practices Akido & Kick Boxing.  Unfortunately though he has at times not be far from controversy and has been criticised from within the game.  I am led to belive he is currently injured and will not be officiating in the opening weekend of the season.Last season he issued 123 cautions & 5 red cards in 39 games.Interview with Uriah from the PFA siteSome of you may remeber last seaosn when Uriah lost his cards.   I was told he didnt lose them but the lining of the pocket went and it was his cards that he had “eaten”