Following Saturday’s incident at Greenfield, where a clash of heads left a Greater Croftpark Rose player briefly unconscious, Woodbank’s Andy McCallion was asked about his reaction and what he would want others to take from the moment. His responses are shared below in full, without alteration.

What made you react straight away?

Oddly enough it was like you could see the collision coming with the way the GCR player jumped with good height but off balance, with his back turned to our player who was favourite for the ball. He jumped forward and up, making contact with the ball, and it seemed a collision was inevitable with the momentum of the players, so eyes were on the pair of them. When the collision happened and seeing the player fall without any attempt to break their fall, with their head tilted to the side on the floor, instincts just kicked in for the safety of the player.

What did you do first?

First rule with first aid is the recovery position for anyone who is potentially unconscious or unresponsive. Keeping their airways clear to breathe, preventing the person swallowing their tongue, or in case they vomit to prevent choking. Thankfully that wasn’t the case here, as the player was out for a couple of seconds before coming round slowly.

Anything you’d want remembered from it?

Mainly the benefit of knowing the recovery position as the basic go-to solution when in the situation of someone who is motionless, and being prepared to provide any first aid that is needed. Lastly, for players who have suffered head knocks in games — if you do feel ill, dizzy, or have any symptoms of concussion, do the smart thing and come off the park. When needed, please seek medical advice in case you have a concussion and take the time needed to recover.

Click to access concussionreport2018.pdf