Carrick Rangers issue Paul Heatley update after “sickening” injury forced Bangor tie to be abandoned

Saturday’s tie with Bangor was abandoned early in the second half after Paul Heatley collided with a wall on the side of the pitch

Carrick Rangers have issued a statement confirming that Paul Heatley was discharged from hospital following a horrific injury during Saturday’s Irish League tie with Bangor.

The game at Taylor’s Avenue was abandoned after Heatley collided with the wall on the side of the pitch.

The incident happened in the second half and play was held up for over half an hour before referee Christopher Morrison decided to abandon the game. Bangor were leading 1-0 thanks to a goal from Ben Arthurs after 14 minutes.

Carrick boss Stephen Baxter, who also managed Heatley during their time at Crusaders, said: “The good news is he was speaking to us, he was awake,” said Baxter.

“We heard the thud and we were 150 yards away. Thank goodness the board was on the wall to take that impact a little. It was a sickening thud.

“The head is badly split, he’s gone to the hospital now to get that all assessed. There could be neck injury there also, trauma to the head, all sorts of stuff that you’re worried about.

“The medical people here today were superb. I knew immediately there was a problem, I screamed at our doctor and physio to get on. These people went into overdrive. The ambulance people, doctors, physios from both teams deserve tremendous credit.

“Thankfully Paul was awake. His eyes were opened and I was able to speak to them. His wife was there. Our thoughts are with the family.

“He is a strong boy, he’s made of good stuff, he will be fine. We are awaiting good news maybe later on and hope that he’s ok.”

In a further update on Sunday afternoon, the club said: “Carrick Rangers can confirm that Paul Heatley was discharged from Hospital late last night. He is currently recuperating at home with his family.

“Paul and Carrick Rangers would like to thank everyone involved with his care, and for all the messages of support.”