VIDEO: NI fans pay tribute to Darren Rodgers

While there was understandable joy and jubilation at Michael O’Neill’s side beat Ukraine 2-0 in Lyon, it was tinged with sadness as Darren Rodgers was not there to witness it.

The Ballymena man died earlier this week after a fall in Nice.

But Darren has been remembered by Northern Ireland fans, not only from the Ballymena area but right across the Province, since news of his tragic passing emerged.

Fans also sung the 24-year-old’s name and applauded in the 24th minute of last night’s match.

On the same day that a book of condolence marking the popular local man’s death was opened in his home town, his name rung out around the stadium in Lyon - and Northern Ireland’s players responded with a performance and result with which Darren would have been thrilled.

In another poignant tribute, a shirt of Braid United - the Saturday Morning League club that Darren played for - emblazoned with his nickname ‘Dar Dar’ was draped at the side of the pitch in the stadium.

It was a fitting tribute for a man who was so well liked in his own community.