Memorial match does Chris proud

MEMORIAL MATCH: Lee Cartwright, Laura McManus, Justine McManus, Mike McManus, David Eyres.

FAMILY and friends of murdered Royton hostage Chris McManus celebrated his life at a memorial game at Boundary Park.

Latics legend David Eyres and former Preston midfielder Lee Cartwright captained teams made up of the 28-year-old’s family and friends.

Chris, a lifelong Latics fan, was killed on March 8 after being taken hostage in Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria, by a terrorist group in May, last year.

A minute’s silence was observed before kick off but the event was designed to be a happy occasion.

Spectators didn’t have to wait long to see a touch of the old Eyresey magic as the midfielder scored from a spectacular 30-yard volley after 15 minutes.

Players, including Eyres and Cartwright, wore specially-made Latics shirts with “Mac” on the back.

A silent auction for a signed Paul Scholes shirt raised £152 and a raffle was held with prizes including a signed Latics shirt and matchball, a signed picture of Carlos Tevez and a designer lampshade.

Latics donated the use of Boundary Park and all facilities for free and all money raised will be donated to Amnesty International.

Latics chief executive Neil Joy said: “Chris was an amazing person and a passionate supporter of the club. Oldham Athletic will honour his memory by supporting his friends and family in everything they do for Amnesty International.”

A minute’s silence was held at Boundary Park before Latics played Yeovil Town on March 10 and hundreds of mourners packed St Patrick’s Church in Union Street West for Chris’s funeral.