As Whitehaven supporters celebrated a win and a special heritage day at the club, word came through a former player had died at the age of 88.
Joe Matthews had played for Whitehaven in the late 50s and early 60s when his career was cut short by injury.
Joe, who was also a talented footballer and had previously had trials with Blackpool AFC signed for Whitehaven as a 20-year-old in the summer of 1958 from the Marsh and Quay amateur club in Workington.
Predominately a prop, he played the occasional game at second row during his four seasons at the Recreation Ground.
Affectionally known by the name Bally due to his Irish heritage, Joe was a larger than life character who spent his working life at Workington steelworks and is well remembered by colleagues at the time for his booming voice, which often signalled his arrival!
He made his senior debut away to Workington on August 19 1958, which as a local lad ensured him of a warm welcome.
He played in 22 of the 41 games during the 1958/59 season, before a broken back ruled him out for the next two seasons.
Despite being advised not to play again, he returned to make two final appearances in the 1961/62 season culminating in a 31-11 defeat at Wigan on December 9 1961.
Overall, Joe made 24 first team appearances for Whitehaven scoring two tries and kicking 29 goals for a total of 64 points.
His Whitehaven heritage number is 120.
The Whitehaven club has passed on condolences to Joe’s family and many friends.
