Championship clash abandoned after Charlton fan dies 

The 12.30pm kick-off against Portsmouth was paused in the 12th minute, then abandoned 

A general view of The Valley Stadium. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)

A Charlton supporter has died after being taken ill during the club’s abandoned Championship fixture against Portsmouth. The fan was treated by medical staff in the stands before being taken to hospital, but it was later confirmed the person had passed away.

The 12.30pm kick-off was paused in the 12th minute, when the score was goalless, after the referee Matthew Donohue was made aware of the severity of the incident in the lower tier of the Covered End by supporters who shouted to attract his attention. The match official then took the players off the pitch six minutes later. It was announced at 1.30pm that play would not resume.

“The club are devastated to report that a Charlton Athletic supporter has died following a medical emergency during today’s game at The Valley against Portsmouth,” a Charlton statement read.

“The club would like to thank the Charlton staff and first responders who did everything they could, but sadly the supporter later passed away in hospital. The club are grateful to supporters in attendance and the Portsmouth players and staff for their patience and understanding as this tragedy unfolded.

“Everyone at the club sends their heartfelt condolences to the supporter’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”

Portsmouth posted on X: “#Pompeyare devastated to learn that the Charlton supporter taken ill at today’s game has passed away. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with their family and friends at this difficult time.”

A blistering first-half performance inspired Leicester to a memorable 3-1 victory at East Midlands rivals Derby, storming into a three-goal lead thanks to strikes from Bobby De Cordova-Reid, Oliver Skipp and Jordan James.

In the first league meeting between the teams since January 2014, Derby pulled one back in the second half through Sondre Langas but the visitors held on for a win that eases the pressure on the manager Marti Cifuentes. It was a much-needed result after two defeats, while Derby have now lost two games in a row at Pride Park.

Tom Ince’s 100th Championship goal crowned Watford’s fightback in a thrilling 3-2 win at Vicarage Road which dented Norwich’s revival. Booed off at the interval after a lacklustre opening 45 minutes, the Hornets’ improved display, which kept the Canaries rooted in the drop zone, was harsh on Philippe Clement’s side.

Norwich twice went ahead and often played with enterprise which belied their lowly position, but they were undone by two-goal Luca Kjerrumgaard’s twin headers and 33-year-old Ince’s enduring poacher’s instincts.

Guardian