Flowers and shirt left for Oxford United goalkeeper Amelia Aplin

Oxford Mail · By Edward Burnett

Flowers, handwritten notes and a shirt have been left for Oxford United goalkeeper Amelia Aplin, who died after a medical incident over the weekend.

The 15-year-old was playing in a Junior Premier League (JPL) match against Fulham at the club's training facility on Saturday (March 7), when she collapsed on the pitch.

Emergency services, including Thames Valley Police and South Central Ambulance Service, attended Oxford Sports Park and transported her to the hospital.

It was then confirmed by the club on Sunday afternoon (March 8) that Amelia had passed away the evening before.

LEAVE YOUR TRIBUTE: Book of condolence opened for Oxford United's Amelia Aplin

The display of flowers, notes and an OUFC shirt. (Image: Amir Steve Ali)

Oxfordshire and the wider footballing community across the UK have been rocked by the news, with heartfelt tributes pouring in over the past 24 hours.

Yellow flowers, handwritten notes, Oxford United scarves, as well as a football and a goalkeeper shirt with Aplin on the back were all left at Oxford Sports Park today (Monday, March 9).

The club's first team players and academy held a minute's silence at the training centre to pay respects on Monday with the club stating Amelia is "forever in our hearts".

Mourners have come from across the city and beyond to pay their respects to the young shotstopper.

Longtime Oxford community campaigner Amir Steve Ali visited the site to leave a bunch of yellow flowers, being especially moved by having a 15-year-old football-loving daughter himself.

READ MORE: Teenage Oxford United player dies after serious incident during game

Handwritten notes and flowers were left in tribute to Amelia Aplin. (Image: Amir Steve Ali)

He said: "It's such heartbreaking news. My own daughter is a footballer and the same age as Amelia was, so it's hit me hard.

"When I went there to lay some flowers to pay tribute and respect, it was a very emotional moment for me.

A minute's silence held by Oxford United's first team and academy at the club's training centre on Monday. (Image: Oxford United)

"I can't imagine what the girl's parents must be going through. My thoughts are with them and her loved ones. I pray that she rest in peace."

Oxford United's statement said: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of 15-year-old Academy player, Amelia Aplin.

READ MORE: Oxford United confirm 'serious incident' at girls' academy game

The tributes to Amelia Aplin at Oxford Sports Park. (Image: Amir Steve Ali)

"Amelia collapsed during a Girls’ Academy game against Fulham at the Club’s Training Centre in Horspath yesterday afternoon.

"The thoughts and sincere condolences from everyone at Oxford United are with Amelia’s family, friends, teammates and coaches.

"We would like to place on record our appreciation for the efforts of the medical staff at both Oxford United and Fulham Football Club, along with the emergency services.

"The club will offer support to Amelia’s family, players, coaches and staff impacted by this tragic event.

READ MORE: Tributes pour in after death of 15-year-old Oxford United player

An OUFC scarf was draped above the flowers. (Image: Amir Steve Ali)

"We would ask that the family’s privacy is respected at this incredibly difficult time."

A statement from the JPL said: "To lose a young player with such promise at just 15 years old is a tragedy that is felt deeply across our football community."

Martin Brock, chief executive of the JPL, added: "Amelia wasn't just a goalkeeper, she was a leader and a bright light in our all stars programme.

"Her loss leaves a void in the JPL that words cannot adequately fill. Our thoughts are with her family, her friends and his teammates at this unspeakably difficult time."

READ MORE: Oxford United game postponed after 'serious incident' at girls game

Handwritten notes were left in tribute to Amelia Aplin. (Image: Amir Steve Ali)

Layla Moran, Liberal Democrat MP for Oxford West and Abingdon, said: "I am deeply saddened to hear of Amelia’s passing.

"My thoughts are with her family, friends, teammates and coaches, and with everyone at Oxford United who will be devastated by this loss.

"Amelia was clearly a talented young player with a love of the game and a bright future ahead of her, and this tragic loss will be felt right across our community."

Anneliese Dodds, Labour MP for Oxford East, added: "This is terribly sad news.

LEAVE YOUR TRIBUTE: Book of condolence opened for Oxford United's Amelia Aplin

A football was also amongst the tributes. (Image: Amir Steve Ali)

"My thoughts are with Amelia Aplin’s family, her friends, and everyone at Oxford United at this awful time."

Liam Walker, Conservative group leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said: "This is utterly devastating news.

"My thoughts are with Amelia’s family and all those impacted by this awful loss. She will forever be a yellow."

A statement from Oxford City FC said: "Everyone associated with Oxford City FC is sending our sincere condolences to the family of Amelia Aplin and to our friends at Oxford United during this incredibly sad time."

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