Football community unites to pay tribute to Billy O'Rourke

Tributes have poured in from the Meath soccer community after the untimely passing of Oldcastle United supporter Billy O'Rourke at the MDL Grounds last night.

Billy attended the Oldcastle United v Trim Town Gerry Reilly Memorial Cup final where the starting Oldcastle United eleven included his son Gary, the team's goalkeeper.

During the match it is understood Billy felt unwell and returned to his car before he was discovered unconscious.

An ambulance was called and brought Billy to hospital but it was later confirmed he had passed away.

Billy O'Rourke was a committed supporter of Oldcastle United and was a very popular figure among the players.

In a statement Oldcastle United FC said: "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 tonight. His wife Margaret, his sons Mark and of course Gary as well as his partner Vanessa, 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."

A post on the Trim Town facebook page said: "It's 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."

The North East Football League offered its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr Rourke.

"Our immediate thoughts and prayers are with his wife Margaret, sons Mark & Gary and Gary's partner Vanessa during this sad time.

"We would like to thank everyone for their respect shown following the aftermath of the Oldcastle United v Trim Town match this evening and especially the first aiders, first responders, ambulance service and Gardai Siochana for all their professionalism this evening.

"As a mark of respect, the MDL Grounds will be closed on Saturday 10th November which will see both the Women’s Challenge Cup between Cootehill Harps v Torro United and the Reserve Cup between Trim Celtic 2nds v Carrick Rovers 2nds postponed until a new date is arranged. For all other games this weekend, we ask that you do a minute’s applause prior to your kick offs.

"May he rest in peace."

The Meath Chronicle extends heartfelt sympathy to Billy O'Rourke's family and friends on their very sad and sudden loss.