Due to a medical emergency in the crowd on Saturday afternoon, Bolton Wanderers’ League One matchup against Cheltenham Town was called off.
Iain Purslow, a 71-year-old lifelong Bolton supporter, passed away in a hospital on Sunday, the club confirmed. He appeared to have suffered a suspected cardiac arrest.
At Toughsheet Community Stadium, with the score at 0-0, play was halted halfway through the first half while medical personnel treated a home supporter who had been injured in the stands.
Prior to Purslow receiving medical attention in the club’s first-aid room, players from both teams were removed from the field. After performing CPR, medical personnel and paramedics transported him to the hospital.
The fixture had been abandoned, it was later announced.
Purslow will be remembered at Bolton’s FA Cup third-round replay against Luton Town on Tuesday. Purslow had been at the game with his son Stuart.
“Bolton Wanderers is deeply saddened to confirm that the fan taken ill at yesterday afternoon’s home fixture against Cheltenham Town has passed away,” a statement from the team stated.
“At this deeply sad time, everyone associated with Bolton Wanderers is sending their condolences to Iain’s family and loved ones.
“Wanderers also like to express their gratitude to the medical personnel and supporters who helped out, as well as to everyone inside the stadium on Saturday, including our Cheltenham visitors, for their cooperation and understanding.”
“Cheltenham Town Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of the supporter who was taken ill at yesterday’s away fixture against Bolton Wanderers,” the team said in a statement.
“Everyone at Cheltenham Town is sending their condolences to Iain’s family, friends, and the Bolton Wanderers community during this extremely difficult time.”
The time that the game will be replayed is still unknown.
(Photos by Richard Sellers/PA via Getty Images)
