TRIBUTES poured in today for a talented footballer from Sutton Cold-field who collapsed and died on the pitch An inquest was due to be carried out on Matthew Gadsby after the weekend tragedy as he played for non-league Hinckley United. Paramedics treated the 27-year-old central defender on the pitch and worked on him for more than an hour after he fell to the ground with no-one near him. Hundreds of fans watching the Conference North game at Harrogate Town, in North Yorkshire, fell into stunned silence as the player was stretchered to an ambulance. Matthew, a former Walsall defender who played in the League Two play-off final against Reading in 2001, was taken to Harrogate Royal Infirmary, but failed to respond to treatment. His partner Sarah, with whom he had an eight-month-old daughter, was today being comforted by relatives. Sutton-born Matthew, a builder by profession who lived in Swadlincote, near Derby, celebrated his 27th birthday last week, having signed a one-year contract with Nationwide North League team Hinckley. Witnesses told how the 6ft central defender's legs appeared to buckle beneath him as he made a run, flanked by two team mates. It is understood he swallowed his tongue as he hit the ground, but quick-thinking medical staff released it almost immediately. Hinckley chairman Kevin Downes said: "This is an absolute tragedy and our thoughts are with Matthew's family and friends. "Incidents like this put everything into perspective and no-one can quite come to terms with what has happened. The medics were out on the pitch within seconds and their treatment was first class. "They did everything they could along with the staff at the hospital, which is next-door to the ground. Mr Downes added: "Matthew had made a big impact on the football club during his time at the Marston's Stadium and he will be sadly missed by everyone." The popular player moved to Mansfield Town in 2002 and then Kidderminster Harriers in May 2003 before dropping into non-league football with Forest Green Rovers. He was said by Hinckley to have been in "outstanding" form since signing his contract in June. Hundreds of tributes poured in from well-wishers across the country. Club secretary Ray Baggott said Matthew was a promising footballer who was well-liked by team mates and fans. "We were looking forward to a big season from him. He was a naturally fit and athletic lad who had never complained of any health problems." Matthew's former manager at Mansfield described him as a "mild-mannered gentleman" and a true professional. Stuart Watkiss, now assistant manager at Grimsby Town, said: "I thought very highly of Matt both as a player and as a young man starting off in the game." * Hinckley's game at Moor Green tomorrow has been postponed as a mark of respect. | 
