The club pays tribute to Anne, 81, a loyal supporter who died while playing for her beloved Ipswich Town.

Ipswich Town players donned black arm bands to their New Year’s Day game in honor of a lifelong supporter who died during their previous home game.

Anne Austin, 81, experienced a health issue during the game against Queens Park Rangers at Portman Park on Friday evening.

The season ticket holder received medical assistance in the Sir Alf Ramsey stand after becoming ill around halftime, but he died on the field.
The announcement sparked an outpouring of love from the football community, with numerous teams posting on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Mark Ashton, the club’s CEO, said the club was devastated to learn of Anne’s passing.

He stated, “We have been in contact with Anne’s family to give support.
As a gesture of respect, the players and coaching staff will wear black armbands for the away game against Stoke City on New Year’s Day, and the Club extends its heartfelt condolences to Anne’s family and friends during this difficult time.”I am sure you can appreciate this is a difficult time for Anne’s family and we all send them our love and support.”

Meanwhile, Stoke City fans led an 81st-minute wave of applause to pay respect, demonstrating that “the football family truly does come together.”

Hundreds of fans from many clubs commented on X, offering their sympathies to the family.

Many others expressed optimism that knowing Anne died in a place she loved, surrounded by fellow supporters, would provide solace.