A Linfield FC ballboy has been praised after his quick thinking helped aid a Cliftonville fan in need of medical attention. The incident occurred during the second half of Saturday evening's Irish Premiership clash between the two sides at Windsor Park.

The Reds fans in the North Stand became concerned for a fellow supporter 10 minutes after the restart and raised the alarm for the person to receive medical attention.

Linfield ballboy Brandon was alert to the situation unfolding and relayed the information onto the assistant referee, who was able to inform referee Ian McNabb of the seriousness of the situation so that the match could be halted to allow the fan to receive treatment from the medical personnel.

After the game, which the Blues won 2-1, young Brandon was widely praised for his actions. Posting on 'X' Cliftonville fan @solitudekop said: "Many thanks from all Cliftonville fans to Linfield ballboy Brandon who noticed a medical emergency in the Cliftonville fans section told the linesman who signalled to the Referee and got the match stopped."

Fellow Cliftonville fan @sammymufc54 agreed posting: "The kid was brilliant, hence the Reds fans singing the ball boy is a legend." @RedWest91 posted: "Done your family proud with that act of quick thinking. Well done."

Linfield supporter @Doug_1886 also praised Brandon's actions: "Fair play to the wee man. Hope the Cliftonville fan is okay." The official Linfield X account also recognised Brandon's quick thinking posting: "Outstanding Brandon. Our best wishes to the Cliftonville supporter who took ill during the game."

Cliftonville FC thanked the quick actions of everyone who helped assist with the medical emergency as they released a statement providing an update on the fan's condition.

The statement read: "Cliftonville Football Club offers thanks to those who assisted with a medical emergency in the North Stand during tonight’s Sports Direct Premiership fixture with Linfield at Windsor Park.

"Play was temporarily suspended during the second-half when a spectator found themselves in difficulty and, thanks to the swift reaction of fellow supporters, was quickly brought to the attention of medical professionals, including staff from both Clubs’ backroom teams.

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"After receiving treatment at the scene, the individual was safely transported from the stadium, with all at Cliftonville extending gratitude to everyone who provided assistance as the distressing event unfolded, as well as offering our best wishes to the supporter affected."

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