Shock news filtered through last night of the death of Derry City chairman Kevin Friel. The 48-year-old was killed in a road accident in Co. Donegal. He leaves behind a wife and five children.

The announcement was made last night during the Derry tournament which is taking place. Tranmere and Grimsby were in the throws of battle when the news was announced over the tannoy.

Immediately the game was stopped as a mark of respect - as was the Eircom League meeting which was taking place in Dublin.

Tributes have been pouring in from all over the country for Kevin. Eircom League president Michael Hyland said: "This is a terrible day for football in this country, Derry City FC and above all Kevin's family.

"Kevin was a central figure in his home city and nationally. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him."

Friel, a printer by trade, has been chairman at the Brandywell for the past three seasons. Niall Conway, editor of official club website, Derry City Online, also paid tribute to Friel.

"Derry City Football Club and indeed the whole of Irish football will be much poorer without him. All our thoughts and prayers are with his young family," said Conway.