A Scottish mother has expressed her overwhelming gratitude after a charity match was organised in memory of her teenage son who tragically took his own life. Murray Dowes, a devoted Stirling Albion supporter, sadly ended his life at the age of 16 after falling victim to a sextortion gang on Instagram in December 2023. The scammers, claiming to be a young girl, manipulated Murray into sharing an intimate image which they then used to blackmail him. In honour of Murray’s memory, a charity match was held at the Forthbank stadium to raise funds for mental health charities. The event drew a crowd of a thousand fans who gathered to support Back Onside, The Scott Martin Foundation, and Stirling Albion’s youth mental health programme.
Murray’s mother, Ros Dowey, expressed her deep appreciation for the outpouring of support, stating that her son would have been deeply moved by the event. She thanked everyone involved in organising the match, highlighting the impact it would have in supporting young people struggling with their mental health. Murray’s father, Mark, also delivered an emotional speech during the charity match, which saw professional footballers and rugby players joining Murray’s family and friends on the field.
The match featured a team named Team Dunblane in honour of Murray, with former St Johnstone manager Callum Davidson among the players. The event was marked by touching moments, including a goal scored by Scottish rugby internationalist Duncan Weir and a spectacular goal by ex-pro player Sean Higgins. The match ended with Murray’s younger brother, Evan Dowey, scoring the winning goal for Team Albion, securing a 4-3 victory.
Emma Blackstock, Murray’s former PE teacher and one of the event organisers, expressed how the match truly reflected Murray’s passion for the Stirling Albion team and the community’s dedication to making a difference. Michelle Campbell, Head of Fundraising and Partnerships at Back Onside, extended her gratitude for being included in the fundraising efforts and highlighted the importance of the funds raised in supporting mental health services in the community.
The charity match served as a poignant tribute to Murray’s life and his enduring impact on those around him. The event not only honoured his memory but also raised vital funds to support mental health initiatives, underscoring the positive legacy that Murray has left behind.