This did not look good.
Stijn Wuytens is a brave man.
The Belgian fired AZ Alkmaar ahead in the Europa League against Dundalk but his leap into the skies and his headed finish meant his neck was literally on the line and he was knocked out cold.
Republic of Ireland squad member, Gary Rogers, came a long way off his line and went to punch the floated ball clear but accidentally caught Wuytens who was sent unconscious.
AZ 1-0 Dundalk. Our thoughts are with Stijn Wuytens who was injured with a clash with Gary Rogers in the lead up to the goal.
— Dundalk FC (@DundalkFC) September 15, 2016
His 60th minute header was skill, athleticism and courage wrapped into one but, by God, it looked nasty as three players collided in the Dundalk box.
59: GOAL!
AZ go 1-0 up thanks to a very brave header from Wuytens. #LOIinEurope https://t.co/IhagaJNIT0— eir Sport (@eirSport) September 15, 2016
Thankfully, the 26-year-old began to come around.
Wuytens has regained consciousness. #azdun
— AZ (@AZAlkmaar) September 15, 2016
And, in a show of real class and support, the travelling Dundalk fans joined the Alkmaar contingent in giving the player a warm reception on his way off the pitch to receive treatment.
65. Wuytens wordt van het veld gedragen. #azdun 1-0 pic.twitter.com/puk7dNwwM0
— AZ (@AZAlkmaar) September 15, 2016
Ciaran Kilduff managed to equalise for the Lilywhites with only minutes remaining to tie the game 1-1.
Stephen Rochford chats with Colm Parkinson on The GAA Hour, heated Lee Keegan debate, and Barry Cahill is outnumbered by Mayo backers. Subscribe here on iTunes.
