A football match in Scotland was abandoned in the second half after a horror collision left a player seriously injured. Forfar Athletic were taking on Formartine United in the KDM Evolution Trophy, which includes teams from the Scottish Championship, League One and League Two.
The incident came after Forfar left-back Adam Livingstone required extensive on-field treatment after a clash in the 50th minute of the match. After the game was initially halted for treatment to take place, it was eventually called off 20 minutes later, with Livingstone rushed to hospital for further treatment.
Club statement on Livingstone's condition
A statement from Forfar read: “The match has been abandoned. We’ll do our best to update you on the situation as soon as we can.”
Before a further update on Livingstone’s condition was released, it read: “Adam is awake and responsive after the aerial clash which has injured his neck/spine. He is being treated by medics on the pitch as we await an ambulance. This is likely the only update we’ll be able to provide for some time.”
Meanwhile on Wednesday, a fresh statement said: “Following last night’s injury Adam was taken to Ninewells Hospital, where X-ray results have not shown any major damage. Adam was kept in hospital overnight but we have been advised that, all being well, he should be allowed home later today.”
Formartine United's response
Formartine United themselves said: “Tonight’s KDM Evolution Trophy fixture has been abandoned due to an injury. Everyone connected with Formartine United wishes the Forfar Athletic player involved all the very best and hopes for a full and speedy recovery.”
Logan Hutchison, who reports for Scottish outlet The Courier and was at the match, wrote: “The injury happened just a few minutes in to the second half after what looked like a routine corner. Livingstone was caught between the Forfar goalkeeper and a Formartine defender as they challenged for the ball.
“Initially, there didn’t look to be too much concern but the severity of the injury soon became clear. Medics from both sides as well as the club doctor and paramedics treated the player on the pitch. The referee led the players off the pitch in the 50th minute of the match and, about ten minutes later, abandoned the game after conversing with both managers.”
Match circumstances
Forfar had been leading the tie 1-0 when the incident took place, having took the lead in the 18th minute via Gus Mailer’s opener. It comes after Jim Weir’s side were defeated on the opening day of the season, but this match will have to be completed at a later date.
