A dramatic National League encounter between Eastleigh and Scunthorpe United was thrown into chaos on Tuesday night, abandoned in the 93rd minute due to a serious medical emergency in the crowd at the Silverlake Stadium.
The match, which was poised at a thrilling 2-2 draw deep into stoppage time, was brought to a sudden halt by referee Jacob Miles. The decision was made to prioritise the welfare of the supporter in distress and to allow emergency services clear and direct access to the individual.
The incident occurred with the game on a knife-edge. Scunthorpe's Kian Scales had seemingly snatched a point for the visitors with a 90th-minute equaliser, cancelling out a first-half brace from Eastleigh's Scott Quigley, who had put the Spitfires 2-1 up after Danny Whitehall's opener for Iron.
Following a significant delay and with the situation ongoing, match official Miles made the definitive call to abandon the fixture entirely. Both sets of players were sent back to their dressing rooms as medical personnel attended to the fan.
Club Statements Confirm Support for Decision
Both clubs immediately released statements expressing their full support for the decision to abandon the match and their primary concern for the wellbeing of the supporter involved.
An Eastleigh FC statement read: "The decision was taken to abandon the game to allow emergency services to treat the person in need. Our thoughts are with them and their family this evening."
Scunthorpe United echoed these sentiments on social media, stating: "Everyone at Scunthorpe United's thoughts are with the supporter concerned and their loved ones."
What Happens Next?
The abandonment so late in the game presents a unique and complex situation for National League officials. The governing body will now be tasked with deciding whether the final minutes of the match are replayed or if the 2-2 scoreline at the time of abandonment is allowed to stand.
Such decisions are typically made after a review of the circumstances and in consultation with both clubs. The league has yet to issue an immediate statement on the next steps.
The footballing community will now await news on the condition of the supporter and an announcement from the National League regarding the outcome of this unprecedented fixture.
