By David Hunter
Ballymena United have paid tribute to a supporter who took ill at their Irish Cup match yesterday and later passed away.
80-year-old Tommy Matthews, from Glenwherry, had followed the Sky Blues for more than 60 years.
Ballymena say medics provided the highest level of attention to Mr Matthews at the Showgrounds, adding that sadly their hard work was in vain.
Fans and other clubs have also taken to social media to pay their respects.
In a statement online the club said "It is with the heaviest of hearts that we just received news that the gentleman who took unwell at today’s match has since passed away.
"Thanks must go to club doctors Brian Patterson and Steven McCurdy, as well as the two paramedics who happened to be attending the game and the St John Ambulance volunteers who provided the highest level of attention to Mr Matthews but sadly their hard work was in vain."
"The club wishes to pass on deepest and heartfelt sympathies to the family and friends of Mr Matthews."
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