Barnsley have tragically confirmed the death of a fan who was taken ill shortly after the full-time whistle following The Tyke’s 0-0 draw at Lincoln on Tuesday night. Anton Roberts received emergency medical attention shortly after watching his side in action but sadly, paramedics were unable to save the life of the Barnsley supporter.
The League One promotion hopefuls said in a club statement. “Barnsley Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a supporter at Tuesday night’s fixture against Lincoln City.
“Anton Roberts received treatment from emergency services outside of the LNER Stadium following the game, but devastatingly, passed away last night.
“The club has been liaising with and will continue to support the family and friends of Mr Roberts through this exceptionally difficult time, whilst asking for their privacy to be respected.
“We encourage all supporters to join in the 61st-minute applause at Oakwell on Saturday in our game against Oxford United. Once a Red, Always a Red.”
It’s understood that Roberts fell ill outside of the LNER Stadium before he was attended to by paramedics.
Lincoln also posted a compassionate message on their Twitter account, thanking those who were able to help at the scene.
The Imps said: “Everyone at Lincoln City offers their condolences to the friends and family of Anton Roberts.
“Our thanks to the first responders and emergency services who were quickly on scene for their efforts.”
Twitter user @JackHall7362 has been spreading the word that there will also be a minute’s applause for Roberts next Tuesday when Barnsley host Ipswich.
He tweeted: “Passing on the message that on the 61st minute against Ipswich, could all Ipswich and Barnsley fans join in for a minute’s applause. Anton’s family approved of it.
“Nobody should go to a football game and not return home.”
Barnsley remain firmly in the League One promotion picture as they sit in fourth place in the table.
The Tykes are just six points off the automatic promotion spots and they still have to play second-place Ipswich next Tuesday at Oakwell when they could close the gap.
Plymouth Argyle are currently top of the table on 89 points having won 37 of their 42 matches this season.
Ipswich and Sheffield Wednesday are also battling it out for automatic promotion with the Tractor Boys currently flying high in second.
Peterborough, who also still have to face Barnsley, are also in the play-off places alongside Bolton.
Derby County, Wycombe and Portsmouth have not yet given up on making the cut with just three matches left to play.
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