TRIBUTES flooded in following news of Matthew Oke's death.
"He was a star in goal," said Mike Caesar-Gordon, the secretary of Week St Mary AFC.
"He joined us when we were in the Duchy League in 2004 and played through four seasons of promotion until we reached Division 1.
"Every time he played the opposition would ask who the goalkeeper was. He was such a flamboyant character – so brave; he would never pull out of a challenge."
Mr Oke lived most of his life in the Holsworthy area but spent a lot of time in Week St Mary where he had many friends.
Holsworthy manager Steve Lewis said: "He was such a well-liked boy. He'd do anything for anybody."
Mr Oke's manager at Bradworthy FC, Steve Jenkins, said Mr Oke had been through some tough times.
He said: "Matt started off his days with us as a youngster coming along to training.
"He's had several clubs since then but has been back with us for two seasons and he's probably one of the best keepers to have come out of the area."
