EFL clash suspended for eight minutes as player hospitalised in sickening incident

Luton Town’s League One match against Notts County was suspended for eight minutes after a horrifying clash of heads.

The Saturday lunchtime fixture at Kenilworth Road was marred by the incident that occurred just nine minutes into the match.

Getty

Luton midfielder Jordan Clark and Notts County’s Darius Lipsiuc both attempted to head a cross from Emilio Lawrence.

But the collision that followed caused widespread concern.

Both sets of players quickly attended to Clark who appeared to come off worse from the clash.

Paramedics quickly arrived on the scene to treat the 32-year-old before he was lifted onto a stretcher and carried off the pitch.

Notts County goalkeeper James Belshaw somehow managed to keep the attempt out of his net.

But the main concerns were centred on Clark who was immediately replaced by Hatters’ boss Jack Wilshere.

After the game, Luton revealed the player was responsive and sent to hospital as a precaution.

“We are able to update supporters on Jordan Clark’s condition following the clash of heads that resulted in him having to be carried off in the first half,” a club statement read.

“After being taken to the dressing room, Jordan was responsive and talking to the medical team, but has been taken to hospital for further assessment.

“All our love and thoughts are with Clicker for a speedy recovery.”

A flurry of goals in an entertaining 2-2 draw

The match burst into life in the latter stages of the first half with Nakhi Wells firing Luton in front from the penalty spot in the 41st minute.

But Luton were unable to hold onto their lead going into the interval as Callum Roberts equalised for the League One new boys.

Oliver Cooper gave the Magpies the lead on the hour but Luton dug deep to claim a point through Callum Marshall’s leveller eight minutes later.

Notts County, who kicked off the season with a 1-1 draw at home to Leicester City last week, took to social media to send Clark their best wishes.

The club wrote on X: “Sending our best wishes to Luton’s Jordan Clark, who is stretchered off with an injury sustained when making contact with the header.

“Darius Lipsiuc also required assessment after challenging Clark for the ball – but he’s OK to continue.”

Getty

The result means both clubs remain unbeaten from their opening two matches.

Luton provisionally sit second in the table ahead of Saturday’s 3pm kick offs.

Meanwhile, Notts County have now registered two consecutive draws and occupy ninth place in League One.