Football

WATCH: Tyrone goalkeeper Niall Morgan calls for young people to play part in Covid-19 virus fight

Tyrone keeper Niall Morgan blocks the goal effort by Jason Rocks of Derry during the opening minutes of the 2019 Ulster Senior Football Championship match at Healy Park, Omagh. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin.
Tyrone keeper Niall Morgan blocks the goal effort by Jason Rocks of Derry during the opening minutes of the 2019 Ulster Senior Football Championship match at Healy Park, Omagh. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin. Tyrone keeper Niall Morgan blocks the goal effort by Jason Rocks of Derry during the opening minutes of the 2019 Ulster Senior Football Championship match at Healy Park, Omagh. Picture by Margaret McLaughlin.

Tyrone goalkeeper Niall Morgan has challenged young people to amend their behaviour in terms of social distancing and to play their part in the fight against the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

Morgan voiced his alarm at the blatant disregard for live-saving advice shown by large numbers of teenagers, who continue to act irresponsibly by congregating in numbers.

He went in front of the camera to post an on-line message urging younger members of society to consider the possible consequences should they pass on the Coronavirus to a vulnerable member of their own family.

“I want you to think about one person in your life in that category and I want you to think how detrimental it could be if you pass on this virus to them,” he said.

“I know I’m not an expert by any stretch of the imagination, but I’m going to pull no punches. I’m going to direct this straight at the teenage age group, who are not taking it as seriously as others.

“That’s not saying all teenagers, that’s the teenage group that are not taking it as serious as others.

“All I’m going to do is, I’m going to put a thought in your head – the next time that you go to get into a large group, or go to get into a crowded car, I want you to think of one person in your life who is in the at-risk category.

“If you don’t know what the at-risk category is, go and look it up.”

Morgan earlier posted a video message on Twitter and Facebook calling on members of the public to show responsibility in response to the situation, and to play their part in minimising the effects of the spreading virus.

“We all have a part to play, it’s in our hands,” he said. “Coronavirus is no joke, and we all have part to play.

“Try to refrain from going on nights out. We’ll all support our pubs and clubs when the time comes to pass.

“Try to support your local businesses. I know it’s not an easy time for anybody, but it’s an especially difficult time for them.”

The Edendork clubman said everybody should observe and follow the advice from the health authorities, north and south.

“Respect social distancing, and try to refrain from hugging or shaking hands.

“This is not a solo run, we all have a part to play.

“Think of those who are more vulnerable in our society, such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.

“Work from home if you can. If you suffer from any of the symptoms of Coronavirus, please seek proper help from the HSE or the NHS.

“We’re all in this together. It’s in our hands.”