A TEEN ref who shot to fame after she was snapped cheering on England has backed Gareth Southgate’s men to go all the way.
Jess Preece, 18, was photographed draped in a St George’s flag celebrating Raheem Sterling’s winning goal against the Czech Republic.
The teenager partied through the match at the 4TheFans Manchester Fan Park on Tuesday night (22/6).
Now the Level 7 children’s referee believes the Three Lions can go all the way after their rousing 1-0 win at Wembley.
Jess, of central Manchester, said: “I think we can go do it this time. The talent we have in this team is world class and we can beat anyone on their day.
“The first two games really didn’t look promising but the last one Southgate changed the team up and it has totally transformed them. He made good use of the subs and with Maguire and Grealish everything looks really promising.
“I think we’ll probably face Portugal next, which is intimidating, but to be the best you’ve got to beat the best.”
West Brom fan Jess, originally from Alsager, Cheshire, has played footballer since she was a kid and got her reffing qualifications two years ago. She is an official for academy games and has looked after big matches for Stoke City and Crewe under-14s.
Jess, now studying to become an engineer in Manchester, said: “My dad’s big into football but never played, and my younger brother plays but none of my girl mates do.
“I just love it. Sam Johnstone is my favourite player for the baggies and I like John Stones for England – I think he’s been very unlucky not to score and has put in some really good shifts.
“I do like Grealish too, despite the fact he’s Villa’s main man.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
