Football clubs join minute’s silence in young player’s honour

Tributes: Heartfelt messages for 11-year-old Methil boy who died just weeks after being diagnosed with cancer

Children across Fife will hold a minute’s silence this weekend in honour of a young football player who has lost his battle with cancer.

Owen Nisbet, who played for Kennoway 2006’s FC, was only 11 when he died, just a few weeks after his illness was diagnosed.

Tributes have poured in for the popular Methil youngster, who has been described as fun-loving, loveable and “a cracking little guy”.

Central and East Fife Soccer Sevens Association has asked all teams in the league to fall silent for one minute as a mark of respect before their games this weekend.

Parents and club officials have been urged to explain the significance of the gesture beforehand to their children, all of whom are under 12.

Owen lived with his mum Cheryl, dad David and little brother, who have been left devastated by his death.

Other family members were rallying round yesterday, with many posting a picture of a blue heart containing the message “There’s only one Owen Nisbet” on social media in solidarity.

Kennoway 2006’s FC changed its Facebook profile picture to an image of the 11-year-old as other clubs in Fife paid heartfelt tributes to the popular youngster.

A post by Templehall United said: “On behalf of all at Templehall United, we send our condolences and thoughts to Owen Nisbet’s family, friends and Kennoway 2006 teammates.

“Owen has sadly passed away, having only been diagnosed with cancer some weeks ago.

“All Templehall United games this weekend will have a minute’s silence before kick-off in tribute to a young lad taken too soon.”

Clubs outwith Fife have also been touched by Owen’s death.

Elgin Star 2008s commented: “So, so sad. There will be a minute’s silence and a collection at next week’s games.”