Cornonavirus: Ballyclare rugby players self-isolating after opposition player tests positive

Ballyclare RFC opened their 2020 preseason with an U21 squad fixture away against Lurgan RFC U23 on Saturday, September 5.

The extended squad used a total of 32 players, with a coaching aim of having all players play in at least two positions over the 80 minutes.

Detailing the development in a post on social media on September 11, a spokesperson for the Doagh Road-based club said: “Ballyclare RFC has just received notice from the Public Health Agency that all players who where on the field last Saturday have been ruled as close contacts of a Lurgan RFC player who tested positive for Covid-19.

“As a result, they all have to isolate for 14 days from last Saturday. As none are showing any symptoms, no one has to be tested.

“To be clear, no one from Ballyclare RFC who played against Lurgan has tested positive for Covid-19, nor shown any symptoms of Covid-19.

“They are isolating purely as a precaution as directed by the Public Health Agency.

“All at Ballyclare RFC wish the Lurgan player a speedy recovery.”

Commenting on September 10, a spokesperson for Lurgan RFC stated: “We have been informed by one of our players that they have tested positive for Covid-19. They did play in the friendly match against Ballyclare on Saturday, September 5, but felt unwell on Monday and therefore did not attend training on Tuesday.

“All men’s senior training this evening has been cancelled, along with our friendly match scheduled for Saturday, September 12. We are currently waiting further information from the Public Health Agency and therefore more details to follow.

“A deep clean of the player corridor and toilets will take place. Women’s and Tigers rugby will continue as planned. The safety of our players, coaches and supporters is of the upmost importance to us and we wish our player a speedy recovery!”

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