Ref Atkinson chosen for Man City opener
- adamhigginsuk
- Aug 11, 2014
- 2 min read
The decision maker: Atkinson will officiate Manchester City's clash with Newcastle on the opening weekend (Picture from Premier League.com)
MARTIN Atkinson will be the man in the middle for Manchester City's opening Premier League match of the 2014/15 season against Newcastle United.
The 43-year-old will take charge as reigning champions City begin their title defence at St James's Park on Sunday afternoon.
He will be assisted by linesmen Stephen Child and Mike Mullarkey while Neil Swarbrick - who will oversee Saturday's game between West Brom and Sunderland - will be the fourth official.
Atkinson was also the referee for City's 2-0 win over West Ham in May which clinched their second Premier League crown in three years.
It was the last of 39 games in all competitions that the experienced West Yorkshire official oversaw, with 28 coming in the top-flight.
He brandished 118 yellow cards and three red cards while awarding eight penalties.
Atkinson received several high-profile matches throughout the campaign including Liverpool's win over Stoke in the first Premier League match of the season, the 2014 Capital One Cup final and the potential title decider between Liverpool and Chelsea.
The League Cup showpiece - which was won by Manchester City at Wembley - completed the set of domestic appointments for the Bradford whistler.
He has also been entrusted with the 2006 Community Shield, 2008 FA Trophy final, 2011 FA Cup final and 2013 Championship play-off final.
Atkinson has prepared for the new season by overseeing several pre-season friendlies including one game at the annual Emirates Cup tournament.
The Fifa referee, who supports Championship side Leeds United, encountered City three times last term and handled four Newcastle games.
It is the second season running that the two sides meet on the opening weekend after City ran out 4-0 winners over the 10-man Magpies at the Etihad a year ago.
The 16:00 BST kick-off will be screened live on Sky Sports 1/HD1 as part of their Super Sunday double header.
Last updated: 11 August 2014 18:05pm
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