IT was a fitting tribute to a talented young sportsman.

Across the Huddersfield area, thousands of junior footballers held a minute’s silence in memory of a teenager who died after collapsing during a match.

And the tribute to 15-year-old Huw Thatcher was impeccably observed, to the delight of his family and friends.

Huw was playing for Hepworth United Juniors in a game against Brighouse Town Juniors last Sunday when he collapsed.

The Holmfirth High School pupil was taken to hospital but died from a brain aneurysm, a coroner said.

All Sunday matches in the Huddersfield RCD Junior League were asked to observe the silent tribute and they did so.

The tributes were held before every game, including the league’s semi-finals at Leeds Road playing fields and in Batley.

There were also personal tributes to Huw from many of the clubs taking part in yesterday’s competition.

Hepworth team coach and family friend Nigel Bowers said: “The tribute was wonderful. It was impeccably observed, as we knew it would be.

“Myself and the other Hepworth officials were at Batley, where our club’s Under 18 side were playing, and there were several tributes there.

“Pudsey, the team we met on the field, presented a floral tribute to Huw’s family before the game.

“It was perfect for Huw, who was just a great guy who will be tremendously missed”.

Huw’s Under 15 team did not play their scheduled game yesterday but could well be back in action next weekend, after his funeral on Friday at Holmfirth Parish Church.

Mourners are being urged not to wear black but to turn up in football kits if possible.

A display of the many tributes to Huw will also be going on show at the Picturedrome in Holmfirth from Wednesday afternoon onwards.

Facebook sites have been swamped by hundreds of messages to Huw, who had played for Hepworth for several years.

His family was originally from Wales and Huw supported Cardiff City, who have sent massages of support.

Mr Bowers said: “The lads have indicated they want to get back on to the field next week and that is probably what we will do”.