FORMER top-level Rugby League referee Karl Kirkpatrick was the man in the middle of Luctonians’ 45-10 National League 2 North win over Hull Ionians at Mortimer Park on Saturday.
Kirkpatrick was in charge of the 2004 Challenge Cup Final, as well as the 2006 Grand Final at Old Trafford.
Luctonians stalwart Dave Thomas said he spoke to Kirkpatrick the previous time the referee had taken charge of a Luctonians match.
“I recognised his name and, the last time we saw him, I actually asked whether he was related to the other Karl Kirkpatrick, who had refereed in the Super League,” said Thomas.
“He told me he was that Karl Kirkpatrick.”
Kirkpatrick was the first referee to switch codes and join union.
He quit rugby league after 14 years’ experience at the top level when he was left off the Super League list.
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