Player in Critical Condition After "Double Head Knock" at Melbourne Game
A 27-year-old Australian rules football player is in a critical condition in hospital after sustaining a serious head injury during a match in Melbourne's north.
The Incident
The injured player then fell and hit his head on the cricket pitch...described as a 'double head knock.'
Victoria Police confirmed emergency services were called to Sydney Crescent at Lalor Reserve about 1 pm on Saturday afternoon. The player was taken to hospital immediately after the injury occurred during play.
How the Injury Happened
Epping Football Netball Club president Luke De Vincentis explained the incident unfolded when two players from the same team attempted a tackle simultaneously. An Epping player and his teammate collided heads while trying to tackle a Lalor opponent.
The injured player then fell and struck his head on the cricket pitch located in the middle of the oval. De Vincentis described this as a "double head knock."
Emergency Response
De Vincentis praised the swift actions of medical teams from both clubs. The head medic performed CPR on the player until emergency services arrived at the scene.
The match between Epping and Lalor Reserves was immediately abandoned, and the senior game scheduled for later that day was also cancelled.
Club Support
Despite the traumatic events, the Epping club proceeded with a planned function on Saturday night. De Vincentis said this allowed members to support each other after a difficult day.
Lalor Football Netball Club released a statement on social media extending their thoughts and best wishes to the injured player, his family, teammates, and the entire Epping community. The club thanked all who assisted during the incident.