The domestic game was left stunned after the referee overseeing Southend's clash with Mansfield Town at Roots Hall collapsed and later died.

Referee Mike North was rushed to Southend hospital and the game was abandoned at 0-0 just before half-time.

Despite efforts at the ground and later at hospital he could not be resuscitated. The FA said it was shocked and saddened to hear of the sudden death.

The tie will now have to be replayed and the date of the re-arranged fixture was due to be announced today (Tuesday). This Is Essex will put the date on-line as soon as it is revealed.

For more on this story see today's Evening Echo

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