Brighton & Hove Albion defender Maelys Mpome was stretchered off after a worrying head injury during the Women's Super League match against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. The game was suspended for 10 minutes as the 22-year-old received medical treatment on the pitch, including a neck brace and oxygen.
The incident occurred when Mpome was struck in the face by the ball while defending a cross. She was carried off by six medics to a standing ovation from Brighton fans, and 13 minutes of stoppage time were added to the match, which Arsenal won 1-0.
Brighton's social media account posted: 'After a lengthy pause in play, Maelys has been stretchered off after initially receiving medical attention on the pitch. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Maelys.'
Arsenal's victory came courtesy of an own goal by Brighton's Marisa Olislagers in the 15th minute, who deflected Olivia Smith's cross into her own net. The win ended Arsenal's four-match winless run and moved them to within five points of league leaders Chelsea.
Former England defender Gilly Flaherty commented on the importance of the result: 'When you are coming off the back of results Arsenal have had, they just need to get those three points. The substitutes came on and made an impact today as well.'
