Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Jake Polden

Fulham fan dies after suffering heart attack in stands and being rushed to hospital

A Fulham fan has died after suffering a heart attack in the stands at Craven Cottage.

The Whites supporter, Paul Parish, collapsed in the Hammersmith End during his side's Championship clash with Blackpool.

Medics from both clubs rushed to his aid and he received treatment in the stands, with other supporters providing privacy with flags.

The match was paused while this was ongoing and the players left the pitch and returned to their dressing rooms, on the orders of referee Peter Bankes.

Meanwhile, the fan was taken from the stand on a stretcher and transferred to an ambulance to be taken to the hospital.

Fulham confirmed the tragic news that Paul has since passed away later on Saturday.

A Fulham fan has died after suffering a heart attack (Kieran McManus/BPI/REX/Shutterstock)

"It is with immense sadness that we inform fans of the passing of supporter, Paul Parish," read a tweet on Fulham's official Twitter page.

"Paul suffered a cardiac arrest and received treatment in the stand at this afternoon's match before being transferred to hospital.

"Our condolences go out to Paul's loved ones."

Fulham chairman Shahid Khan said: "I am devasted by the news that Paul Parish, our supporter who suffered a medical emergency at the match this afternoon, has passed away.

"I've been told that Fulham Football Club played an extremely important role in the entirety of Paul's life, with Craven Cottage serving as a second home where he would spend many afternoons as a season ticket holder, supporting his club in the company of family and friends.

"We are honoured that Paul chose Fulham as his club, and I personally wish Paul's loved one's comfort, support and peace in the days ahead and beyond.

"To Marek Rodak and all supporters nearby who summoned for help, I am grateful. I join everyone at FFC in commending the work by medics and stewards, whose response to the matter was incomparable.

"Finally, the reverence shown by Fulham and Blackpool supporters alike served as a reminder of the good in the game of football, and the goodness within all of us."

Players left the pitch while the fan received treatment (CameraSport via Getty Images)

Fulham captain Tom Cairney also tweeted his condolences.

"Just heard the devastating news rest in peace Paul Parish you'll be a part of the Fulham family forever," wrote Cairney.

"Thank you to the Hammy end for bringing our attention to the situation thoughts are with Paul's family we're all with you and anything we can do or help with please reach out."

Fulham were leading 1-0 before the incident, with the Championship's top goalscorer Aleksandar Mitrovic netting in just the sixth minute.

Blackpool equalised on 57 minutes through Josh Bowler to take a point from the contest.

Fulham centre-back Tim Read took to Twitter following the match to send a message to the fans affected by the tragic incident.

"To all those who witnessed and may be struggling with what they saw…don't be afraid to reach out and talk to someone," wrote the American international.

"Reach out to me, to your loved ones, to anyone. You are not alone and others will be or have felt what you are feeling."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.