Ganson refs European Cup opener

Super League referee Steve Ganson has arrived in Padova to take charge of tonight’s opening European Cup game.

Hosts Italy will take on Scotland at the Stadio Del Plebiscito with Ganson in the middle, fresh from officiating last Saturday’s Super League Grand Final between St Helens and Leeds.

Ganson said: “It is as important for match officials as it is the players to be able to experience this great sport in new and different locations.

“Coming from the intense atmosphere of fully trained elite athletes to nations who are attempting to further the sport but have equally as much passion to represent their country is an exciting prospect, I am very much looking forward to the whole occasion.”

Match commissioner for the clash is former Super League referee’s supremo and highly respected Australian official Greg McCallum.