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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

Kaylee Black tributes paid at Sunday's Irish Cup final

Tributes have been paid to young footballer Kaylee Black during Sunday's Irish Cup final.

The 13-year-old - who played for Crusaders Titans Under 13 side - tragically died earlier this week.

A minute's silence was held before Sunday's Irish Cup showpiece between Crusaders and Ballymena United.

Read more: Ballymena United vs Crusaders live score updates from Irish Cup Final

The tribute was impeccably observed at Windsor Park as a photograph of Kaylee was shown on the big screens inside the stadium.

The match was also paused in the 13th minute as fans, players and officials joined in a minute's applause in memory of Kaylee, whose family were in attendance.

A banner saying 'Forever 13' pays tribute to Crusaders player Kaylee Black who died earlier in the week (INPHO/Jonathan Porter)

Crusaders supporters chanted 'she's one of our own' as Kaylee's photo was again shown on the screens.

On Wednesday night Crusaders Strikers players wore black armbands and t-shirts with Kaylee's photograph displayed ahead of their game against Derry City.

Kaylee Black (Crusaders Strikers FC)

The Strikers - who dedicated the 5-0 win to the young goalkeeper - said earlier in the week: “Kaylee was goalkeeper and valued member of our U13 SBYL ( South Belfast Youth League) league winning side, who lifted their trophy last week at our first game at Seaview.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, teammates, coaches and everyone who loved her during this sad time.”

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