Meath soccer teams pay tributes after untimely death of supporter Billy O'Rourke
Billy O'Rourke passed away after attending Oldcastle United vs Trim Town.
The soccer community in Meath have been sending in tributes following the untimely death of Oldcastle United supporter Billy O'Rourke.
Billy was at the MDL Grounds on Friday evening, watching his son Gary, who plays goalkeeper for Oldcastle, in their match against Trim Town in the Gerry Reilly Memorial Cup final.
It is believed that after the match got underway, Billy felt unwell and made his way back to his car where he was then found unconscious.
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He was then taken to hospital in an ambulance after being found, but passed away shortly after.
Oldcastle United FC have released a statement on their Facebook page: “Cup final day is always supposed to be a joyous occasion for everyone involved. And for 90 minutes the occasion lived up to be a great spectacle. But devastation and tragedy struck bringing with it, unbearable sadness. The result does not matter.
“To Gary O'Rourke, our goalkeeper, our teammate, our friend, we are all with you. Heartfelt condolences to you and all your family on the passing of your father Billy O'Rourke last night. His wife Margaret, his sons Mark and of course Gary as well as his partner Vanessa, grandson Jax, Johanna & Alex we are thinking of you all in this desperately sad time.
“Oldcastle United would like to thank everyone for their respect shown following the match, especially the first aiders, first responders, ambulance service and Gardai Siochana for all their professionalism this evening.
“May he rest in peace.”
The Trim Town Academy page posted on Facebook: “Its hard to put into words, how heartbroken we all are today. A great spectacle, ending with unbearable sadness. Its impossible to compute and fully understand what occurred last night.
“To Gary O'Rourke, we as a club, send our heartfelt condolences to you and your family. We are absolutely heartbroken for you all.
“To everyone connected with Oldcastle United Football Club we are so sorry for your loss at this unbelievably difficult time.”
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