Ballinamallard United manager Mark Stafford has paid tribute to Mervyn Nixon, who died during the week. Nixon had a long association with the club, particularly through his work maintaining the playing surface at Ferney Park.

Stafford said Nixon provided the pitch for the club over many years and that it is the pride and joy of Ballinamallard Football Club. He added that he was lucky enough to play many games on it and that the work Nixon did was never taken for granted.

Stafford also said there will not be another Mervyn Nixon and sent condolences to his family on behalf of the first-team staff and players.

The tribute came after Ballinamallard's 1-0 home defeat to Rathfriland Rangers at Ferney Park on Friday night. Stephen McCavitt scored the only goal from the penalty spot 11 minutes after half-time.

Stafford said his side were very disappointed and did not start the game well enough. He felt there was not much in the game and that the penalty came out of nothing. He added that his team struggled to break down a side defending a lead, similar to their previous match against Armagh.

Stafford said he was particularly disappointed that the team could not get a result for Nixon. Ballinamallard now travel to league leaders Annagh United on Friday evening.