A BOXING DAY match was abandoned after a player collapsed on the pitch with a horror head injury just moments before the final whistle.
Cray Wanderer’s Yahya Bamba fell to the floor in the 92nd minute of his side’s game against Margate on Tuesday.
AlamyA Boxing Day match was abandoned late on after a player suffered a horror head injury[/caption]
The Isthmian League, Premier Division clash was tied at 0-0 when the shocking incident occurred.
Cray and Margate both posted on their official X accounts that Bamba was left grounded in the second minute of added time.
It was later revealed he had suffered an “unfortunate head injury.”
The striker received treatment from medics as the game was put on ice.
And the captains of both sides discussed how to proceed with the referee.
An ambulance was immediately called for Bamba.
It was then agreed that the final two minutes would be played after he was safely transported to hospital.
And both sides left the pitch as Bamba continued to receive medical care.
But 20 minutes later, the decision was taken to completely abandon the game.
Cray Wanderers updated fans, saying: “Following the serious nature of the injury to Yahya Bamba and the emergency care needed, the match has been abandoned.
“Our thoughts are with Yahya at this time from all at Cray Wanderers.”
They later wrote: “Our thoughts are with Yahya Bamba who has been taken by ambulance to hospital after lengthy care on the field.
“Our love and thoughts are with Yahya and the dedication of the medical teams of both sides and the paramedics on duty.”
Supporters paid tribute to the attacker on social media.
One said: “Never nice to hear news like this, especially at this time of year! Sending well wishes to Yahya and everyone at Cray Wanderers.”
Another declared: “Sending you guys best wishes.”
One noted: “Hope he’s OK.”
Bamba was signed by Cray from Sevenoaks Town in November 2022.
He made an immediate impact by helping his side beat Leyton Orient on his debut.
And the attacker has been an ever-present for Cray this term.