Cliftonville FC is mourning the death of a young supporter, Keith Leal, who has died aged 27 after a battle with illness. The club issued a statement expressing its deep sadness and extending condolences to the Leal family.
Keith was the son of Reverend Dario Leal, who served as the club's chaplain. The club's message was directed to Dario, his wife Denise, and the wider family circle. "Everyone at Cliftonville Football Club is deeply saddened to hear of the untimely death of our supporter Keith Leal," the club said.
The news comes as the team sits fourth in the Northern Ireland Premiership with nine points from five matches. Their recent form shows three wins and two losses, with victories over Carrick Rangers and Portadown in their last two outings.
The current standings show Cliftonville seven points behind leaders Coleraine.
The club's focus now returns to football, but this moment serves as a sobering reminder of the community that surrounds it. The next match for Jim Magilton's side is that trip to Windsor Park to face Linfield on 19 December.
