Barnsley have given an update on the spectator who had fallen ill prior to their League One clash against Burton Albion.
The match, which was suppose to kick off at 3pm yesterday, was postponed after an air ambulance was forced to land on the pitch to assist the club’s long-serving volunteer who suffered a cardiac arrest.
A few hours later the club released a statement, Safety Officer Steve Bailey quoted: “It became apparent very quickly that the incident was of a serious nature. This required a quick response from all medical staff inside Oakwell at the time. We don’t want to comment on the incident until we have further details.
“What we do want to say is that everyone connected to both clubs have acted in an impeccable manner, showing the community spirit and togetherness that was required, as well as showing understanding as to why the game was postponed. Football does not matter in a situation like this, we all send our best wishes to the gentleman and his family.”
Chief Executive Gauthier Ganaye said: “All of the medical staff inside of Oakwell along with Steve and his team responded superbly to a serious incident. All of us remain concerned and send our best wishes to the gentleman involved, along with his family.
“We would like to especially thank the fast response of Yorkshire Ambulance and their staff. The importance of knowing important medical technique has been seen today and we will continue to raise awareness on this topic.”
Long-serving Barnsley Football Club volunteer, Stephen Croft was airlifted to Sheffield Northern General today, after suffering a cardiac arrest just prior to kick-off against Burton Albion.
Stephen’s family have sent the following statement: https://t.co/lnBsKHQmCv pic.twitter.com/Cy0JCvvTHu
— Barnsley FC (@BarnsleyFC) September 22, 2018
The family of the ill volunteer sent the following statement: “The family of Stephen Croft would like to sincerely thank the Burton players and both clubs officials for their rapid response to Stephen’s collapse just before today’s game. He is now stable but in a poorly condition in Hospital, at Sheffield Northern General. Without their rapid response, he would not be here now. The family would like to thank both sets of fans for their dignity and understanding. This sort of incident brings out the best in people and that can be seen today in the stands and on the pitch at Oakwell. They are a credit to both teams. The family are humbled by the messages of support already received. It goes without saying we can all be proud of our ambulance services including the air ambulance, who we all couldn’t thank enough.”
An air ambulance has arrived at Oakwell after someone was taken seriously unwell before the match started. Best wishes and a speedy recovery to that person. pic.twitter.com/cuTU0Air3x
— Matthew Shaw (@M_Shaw1) September 22, 2018
Not something you’d expect to see, sincerely hope the person who’s been taken ill makes a full recovery. Sterling job from the staff and Medics at Oakwell! pic.twitter.com/myUBRWeri9
— Phil Cooper (@philcooper_PA) September 22, 2018
Football fans and clubs up an down the country gave their respects and best wishes to the fallen ill volunteer and his family, a link to a Yorkshire Air Ambulance page was also included – check out those tweets on the next page.
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