Newcastle Knights Star Rushed to Hospital After Early Collision
AAMI Park, Melbourne — In a worrying turn of events just five minutes into the match, Newcastle Knights forward Phoenix Crossland was stretchered from the field following a heavy collision with Melbourne Storm decoy runner Joe Chan.
Both players appeared to have their eyes on the ball at the moment of impact.
Medical staff immediately attended to Crossland on the pitch, assessing him for potential neck damage. He was subsequently taken to hospital for further evaluation.
According to Fox League’s Matty Russell, Crossland complained of neck stiffness but noted that the decision to transport him was "purely precautionary."