A Scots mum says she is overwhelmed after a charity match was held in memory of her teenage son who took his own life. Murray Dowes tragically ended his life at his home in Dunblane after becoming a victim of a sextortion gang on Instagram in December 2023, aged just 16.
Murray, a huge Stirling Albion fan, was targeted by scammers who claiming to be a young girl, and tricked him into sending an intimate image before blackmailing him. Today a charity match was held in his honour at their home ground Forthbank in aid of mental health charities.
A thousand fans packed into the League Two club’s ground to help raise funds for Back Onside, The Scott Martin Foundation, and Stirling Albion’s youth mental health programme. Mum Ros Dowey said her son, Murray, would have been “incredibly touched” by the event.
Ros said: “Seeing so many people come together to celebrate Murray’s life and support such an important cause means the world to us. We’re so grateful for the time and hard work that so many people have put in to make the day happen.
“I know Murray would be incredibly touched by the love and generosity shown today. This event not only honours his memory but will help make a difference in the lives of young people struggling with their mental health, and that’s something he would be so proud of.”
The match saw current professional footballers and rugby players line-up alongside Murray’s family and friends, including dad Mark and younger brother Evan.
Former St Johnstone manager and player and current Queen’s Park boss Callum Davidson featured in all-star Team Dunblane – dedicated to the former Dunblane High School pupil.
Callum, also originally from Dunblane, wore a blue shirt along with fellow team mates which said “Murray’s Match” across the front.
They came up against a mix of stars wearing Stirling Albion’s red and white home kit, with current club captain Ross McGeachie also involved.
Albion skipper McGeachie said: “It was an honour to be involved in Murray’s Match. Seeing the community come together for such an important cause was incredibly moving. I think Murray would be delighted with what we accomplished here today.”
Scottish Rugby Internationalist Duncan Weir opened the scoring with a powerful shot in the 9th minute, giving Team Albion an early lead. Ex pro player Sean Higgins channelled his inner David Beckham to score the goal of the match – lobbing the goalkeeper from the halfway line.
The first half finished three each. However Murray’s younger brother Evan Dowey netted a stunning second half winner giving Albion a 4-3 victory.
Emma Blackstock, Murray’s former PE teacher and one of the event organisers, spoke about the impact of the event said: “Today was a true reflection of Murray’s passion for The Binos and has shown the community’s commitment to making a difference.”
Michelle Campbell, Head of Fundraising and Partnerships at Back Onside, added: “On behalf of Back Onside, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to the organisers of Murray’s Match for including us in this heartfelt tribute.
“The funds raised are vital to sustaining our life-saving services, helping us continue to support those experiencing mental health challenges in our community.”
You can still donate to Murray’s fundraiser here.
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