THE family of an elderly football supporter who died while watching Greenock Morton play a championship match have said he died "at his happiest".
The fan, named as Andrew Kerr, collapsed in the Sinclair Street terracing at Cappielow just four minutes into an SPFL Championship game between Morton and Queen of the South on Saturday. The incident forced the game to be abandoned following unsuccessful attempts by the medical staff from both clubs, as well as paramedics, to revive Mr Kerr. His great-granddaughter Gemma later wrote on Twitter: "Appreciate all the lovely thoughts of my pop who sadly passed away supporting his team."
She added: "My pop died at his happiest."
Andy Goram - who earned 43 caps for his country during a trophy-laden career - was among those who responded to his great-granddaughter: "So sorry... I have good friends at Morton ... great people there with a great support ... respects to you and your family..."
Greenock Morton team member Aidan Fulton said: "RIP the Morton fan who sadly passed away at today's game. Thoughts and prayers are with him and the family."
Referee Don Robertson had taken the decision to halt the match after 10 minutes with the score still 0-0 as efforts were made to save Mr Kerr's life. Officials ushered players from the pitch and the decision to abandon the game was taken at 3.32pm. Both clubs have praised the conduct of fans as events unfolded.
"It would appear that an elderly man has died after appearing to take unwell and collapsing at the Morton-Queen of the South game, at around 3.10pm," a Police Scotland spokesman said.
The decision to abandon the game was supported by both clubs and Morton captain Dougie Imrie said it was made "out of respect to the supporter's family". The midfielder added: "You don't want to go back out after that - it's a sad day for his family and a tragedy for the club. He's a life-long Morton fan who had just come to watch his team, but who has tragically passed away."
Queens manager Jim McIntyre said: "A guy has come to watch his team play football and will not be going home. That shouldn't happen."
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