Ballinamallard United confirm two positive COVID-19 results for players

The Bluefin Sport Championship side, who played Linfield in a friendly last Thursday at Midgley Park, released a statement confirming the results as speculation over the situation following that Belfast fixture increased across the weekend.

“Ballinamallard United FC wish to confirm that two players have tested positive for Covid-19,” confirmed the club in an official statement. “The players are within two different squads at the club and both had not been in attendance at the Club facilities for some time, in the first instance it was over a week and the second case was almost a week prior to their positive test result.

“On receiving the information of a positive case the Club immediately contacted the Public Health Agency (PHA) for advice and guidance.

“The Club has implemented the PHA advice that it received.

“The Club have in the past and continue to adhere to government, health and IFA guidance at all times.

“We hope the players make a full recovery and trust that we can all stay safe during this difficult time.

“Although neither player was at the facilities for a period of time prior to the positive results and we haven’t been advised it necessary, we believe it appropriate to suspend activities at the training and playing facilities until further notice, we will keep the matter under review.

“No further comment will be made at this time.”

Linfield - who have a Co Antrim Shield fixture against PSNI at Windsor Park scheduled for Monday night - released the following statement: “Following confirmation from Ballinamallard United FC (our opponents in a recent friendly game) of positive Covid-19 tests within their club, Linfield FC has been in contact with the Public Health Agency (PHA) and followed all necessary protocols in relation to our players and staff and the club’s training facility at New Midgley Park”.