Nigeria born duo of Nnamdi Ofoborh and Adebayo Akinfenwa were in combined 21 minutes action for League One side Wycombe Wanderers in their 2-1 win over Blackpool on Tuesday.
While striker Akinfenwa was in action for 16 minutes after coming in as 74th minute replacement for David Wheeler, midfielder Ofoborh saw only five minutes action stepping in to replace Dominic Gape in the 85th minute.
The victory at the Adams Park was however overshadowed by news of the passing away of the club’s long time dedicated fan Mark Bird
Nigeria born duo of Ofoborh and Akinfenwa were in action for 21 minutes in the 2-1 over Blackpool Tuesday
Mark 62, had suffered heart attack forcing the delay of the match for over an hour as an air ambulance landed on the pitch, with Mr Bird attended to before being taken to nearby Wexham Park Hospital. The club management subsequently dedicated the victory to Bird who was described as a loyal supporter.
“Wycombe Wanderers are devastated to report that Mark Bird – a loyal supporter, father and grandfather – passed away on Tuesday evening after suffering a heart attack at Adams Park ahead of the fixture against Blackpool,” the Sky Bet League One club said on their website.
“Mark, 62, was taken ill in the Woodlands Lounge and treated on the scene before being taken by ambulance to Wexham Park Hospital, but could not be resuscitated and died later that evening.”
Manager Gareth Ainsworth and Chairman Trevor Stroud said in a statement: “Our thoughts are with Mark’s family at this very difficult time and we offer the full support of Wycombe Wanderers in any way that we are able to comfort and support them.
“We were saddened to hear before the match that a supporter had been taken ill and made the difficult decision to proceed with the game against Blackpool.
“On hearing the news, we dedicate our victory to Mark Bird and send our most sincere condolences to all who knew him.
Read AlsoJohn Barnes my idol, says Nigeria player on FIFA fame
“We would also like to commend the very best efforts of the medical staff and stewards on the scene, including the Thames Valley Air Ambulance, as well as the match officials and representatives of Blackpool for their compassionate handling of the situation.”