A 27-year-old man is in a critical condition after suffering a serious head injury during a local match in Melbourne’s north this afternoon.
Victoria Police confirmed emergency services were called to Lalor Reserve on Sydney Crescent around 1pm after “a man suffered a serious head injury while playing”.
The player was taken to hospital, where he is in critical condition.
A match between Epping and Lalor reserves was abandoned following the incident and the senior game was also cancelled.
In a statement posted on social media, Epping Football Netball Club acknowledged the incident and thanked those who offered their support.
“We will provide updates on the situation where and when necessary,” the club said.
“We hold everyone in our deepest thoughts at this time and sincerely thank everyone who assisted during and after the incident.”
In a social media post, Lalor Football Netball Club said it expressed its “thoughts and best wishes to the player, his family, teammates and the wider Epping community”.
“We wish them a full and speedy recovery,” the club said.
“We would also like to sincerely thank the players, coaches, officials, medical staff, emergency services and fans of both clubs who assisted and supported those involved in the incident.
“On days like these, football comes second. “We remain focused on the well-being of the player and everyone involved.”