Northern Ireland

Co Down football club devastated by death of young player Max Wilson

A CO Down football club has been left “devastated” following the sudden death of a young player.

Max Wilson, who was from Rathfriland, died over the weekend.

The 18-year-old, who would have turned 19 later this month, was a keen footballer and the third generation of his family to play for Rathfriland Rangers FC.

The teenager played for Rathfriland FC Reserves on Saturday when they took on Cleary Celtics in the opening round of the Irish Junior Cup at Iveagh Park.

Junior Murray, club chairman, said Max’s death was “devastating news for all of Max’s family and everyone here at the club. Our club is an extended family for all its players and everyone is in mourning following the passing of Max,” he told the Co Down Outlook.

“Max always played very well and he had a bright future ahead of him”.

Mr Murray said Max was “a top player and friend to everyone at the club. “Max had a great bunch of friends here and everyone is completely devastated by the news.”

Posting on Facebook, Rathfriland High School said its school community was “shocked and saddened to hear of the untimely passing of past pupil Max Wilson”.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time”.

Other people took to Facebook to express their condolences.

One friend posted: “Just devastating news today. No words. Pray that God would comfort the entire family at this sad time,” while another posted: “He was a lovely lad... R.I.P. wee Max... you are with your grandad now” Another posted: “No words. God love the whole family”.