FA Trophy clash ABANDONED after serious on-field medical emergency with player leaving pitch in ambulance
A THIRD-ROUND FA Trophy match between Gateshead and Farsley Celtic has been abandoned following an emergency involving a player.
Celts’ captain Lewis Turner, 32, was rushed to hospital via ambulance following an on-field medical emergency.
The break in play came in the 28th minute when medical staff rushed the pitch to attend to right-back Turner.
National League side Gateshead were 1-0 up at the time, when the ref sent both sets of players to the changing rooms in the 31st minute.
Turner has since been taken away via ambulance to be treated in hospital.
Reports state that Turner’s team-mates were reduced to tears and desperately called for help.
Gateshead FC wrote on X: “Following discussions between both clubs, the decision has been taken to abandon tonight’s game.
“Our thoughts go out to Lewis Turner & all involved with @FarsleyCelticFC at this time.”
While the visitors, who are in the National League North, wrote: “We will update supporters on Lewis’ condition when possible.”
Leeds United’s official X account wrote: “The thoughts of everyone at #LUFC are with Lewis at this time and we’re all wishing him a speedy recovery.”
Turner came through the youth ranks at Leeds, before being loaned out between Harrogate Town and Chester.
Both sets of supporters took to X to show their support for Turner.
One fan inside the ground wrote: “Really wish for the best to him that was absolutely horrifying to see .”
A second said: “Praying for a full recovery .”
While another praised: “Excellent work from the paramedics.”
A fourth added: “It was so scary to watch. Hope and pray he recovers well and hope all the players are OK.”
One more wrote: “That was one of the hardest things I’ve witnessed.”
Gateshead striker Luke Hannant scored the opener around seven minutes before the horrifying incident.
Whether the match will be replayed remains to be seen, but whichever team advances will host Boston United in the fourth round of the FA Trophy.
Gateshead are currently fourth in the National League, while Step Six West Yorkshire outfit Farsley sit 20th in the league below.
Turner signed a contract extension with Farsley Celtic in May 2022 after making more than 100 appearances the club.
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