Rugby union match abandoned after referee hit by ball midway through
Alex Thomas was hit by a clearing kick 28 minutes into the game
A rugby union match has been forced to be abandoned after the referee was hit by the ball midway through the game.
Alex Thomas had been monitoring the match between Ampthill and Hartpury in the second tier of the English rugby union system on Saturday afternoon (December 14th).
During the first half of the game, Alex then appeared to be hit by the ball as Hartpury fly-half Harry Bazalgette tried to clear the ball away.
When checked on by medical professionals, it appeared that Alex has been knocked out by the strength of the ball, being treated by medics on the field before being carried off on a stretcher.
Following this, the game was eventually abandoned a few minutes later - with play officially ending after 28 minutes.
In a statement released on their website, Ampthill apologised to fans and willed referee Thomas to make a full recovery.
"We regret that this afternoon’s game had to be abandoned after 28 minutes of play due to an injury to referee, Alex Thomas," the club said.
"Our thoughts are with Alex for a swift recovery. We appreciate that the decision is disappointing for supporters who have travelled to the game but our priority is for health of the players and match officials.
"The fixture will be rearranged in due course and all tickets will be valid for this game."