Footballers from Bucks New University were on their best behaviour when former Premier League referee Howard Webb took charge of their varsity match against University of Roehampton.

Webb, who refereed the 2010 World Cup final between Spain and Holland, was in the middle when the sides went head-to-head at the Bank of England sports centre on March 25.

A good crowd gathered to watch the match in which Bucks New University narrowly lost out 1-0 to their Roehampton opponents.

Mark Sweeney, Vice President Student Involvement at Bucks New University’s Students’ Union, said: “Around 500 players and spectators from Bucks New University took part in the whole day and we were delighted to have ex-Premier League official Howard Webb referee the men’s first team football match.

“It was a fantastic experience for all involved and Howard was a true sport in stopping for photos with everyone and signing plenty of autographs throughout the course of the afternoon.”

As well as losing out over the course of 90 minutes, Bucks came out on the losing side overall in their varsity meeting.

Sweeney said: “Bucks New University lost the annual varsity fixture 15.5-7.5 and the day was crammed with 23 different fixtures in sports ranging from hockey to netball to rowing and rugby, all played at venues near Roehampton’s campus.

“It was a great day filled with lots of team spirit, and we are already gearing up to bring the cup to Bucks New University for the first time when we take on Roehampton again next year.”