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Former Ireland captain Joy Neville made European rugby history last night

The Limerick native became the first woman to officiate in either the Challenge Cup or the Champions Cup.

Joy Neville Neville during last night's game. James Crombie / INPHO James Crombie / INPHO / INPHO

BATH BEAT BRISTOL in the European Challenge Cup last night as the two clubs renewed their rivalry for the first time in seven years.

Even more significantly, however, was the fact that former Ireland captain Joy Neville was named as an assistant referee for the game.

In doing so, she became the first woman to ever officiate in a European rugby match.

Limerick-born Neville won the Six Nations Grand Slam and made 70 appearances for her country before moving into refereeing after retirement.

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