Spreaders looking forward to Steeno's big day!

The man charged with overseeing Gareth Steenson’s  testimonial game at Sandy Park this Saturday (AUGUST 12), Tony ‘Spreaders’ Spreadbury has heaped praise on the Exeter Chiefs.

The former international referee has since retired but is now head of RFU officials.

And he said he was relishing the chance to pull on his boots again.

Steenson is celebrating 10 years as an Exeter Chief and as part of his celebratory year is staging a game featuring an Exeter select side who will take on a Classic Lions team featuring Mike Tindall.

Spreaders said: “I remember the days when I used to referee Exeter games and had to get the greyhounds off the pitch before we could kick off.

“In another cup game between Exeter and Wasps, there was so much mud I’m sure I picked up two carrots and a turnip!”

But Spreaders has watched with admiration the club’s rise to glory.

He said: “I grew up with them and I’m delighted to be helping out for this game.

“It’s a great rugby story and they are deservedly champions of the Premiership.

“Sandy Park is becoming the sort of venue that people would pay to watch being painted. It’s a great family club and with the Baxters, it has a great family heritage.”

Steenson said he couldn’t wait to be reunited with his former team-mates.

“It is going to be a very special, and emotional, day,” he said.
“These guys helped to get the Chiefs to where they are today and it will be an honour for me, and the club, to welcome them back.

“I’m also flattered that the Classic Lions have agreed to be our opposition.  We floated the idea at our first testimonial committee meeting just a few weeks ago and now it is a reality. I can’t wait!”

Tickets are available at the ground on the day. Kick off is 2pm.