London, Dec 23 (AP) The Premier League has its first female referee.

Rebecca Welch blew her whistle to start the match between Fulham and Burnley on Saturday in a landmark moment for England's top league.

She was applauded by some fans as she emerged from the tunnel ahead of the match at Craven Cottage.  West Ham 2–0 Manchester United: Red Devils’ Scoring Woes Continue As Erik ten Hag's Men Fall to Eighth Defeat in Premier League 2023-24.

Welch has already worked as the fourth official in the Premier League, for the match between Fulham and Manchester United on November 4. She has handled matches in the second-tier Championship and FA Cup.

Welch has been a referee since 2010, initially balancing the role with her job in the National Health Service before becoming a full-time match official. (AP)

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