Wisbech keeper rushed to hospital in Petr Cech style incident

By ADAM LAZZARI

RIDGEONS PREMIER DIVISION

Wisbech Town 1 King's Lynn Reserves 2

WISBECH lost six points in their fight to avoid relegation but the wellbeing of goalkeeper Chris Horton who was rushed to hospital after being knocked unconscious was of greater concern.

Horton was caught by a knee to his chin in the 82nd minute of Tuesday's match.

Wisbech player-manager Gary Setchell said it was similar to the incident which caused Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech a fractured skull in 2007.

The match was stopped for 20 minutes while Horton was treated and he was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King's Lynn where he spent the night.

He suffered serious concussion and lost three teeth.

Setchell said: "Chris showed real bravery the way he went into the challenge.

"I'm not sure when he will be able to play again. They say boxers can return from a knock-out after 28 days, so he could be back soon, but we will make sure he is checked out and we get all the correct medical advice.

"It means 18-year-old Alex Street will now get a chance in goal for us. He's been waiting for his opportunity."

King's Lynn took the lead in the second minute after a striker knocked in a rebound when Horton parried a free-kick.

It was 2-0 after 35 minutes but Wisbech hit back three minutes later with Billy Smith's shot being diverted by a defender past his own goalkeeper's head.

Wisbech hot the crossbar twice in the second half but came away with nothing.

The result was a big blow for the Fenmen, who were looking to build on Saturday's impressive 1-1 draw with Norwich United.

Youth team player Nathan Watson came off the bench to squeeze his shot in the inside box from the edge of the box and earn Wisbech a point.

Setchell said: "We were awful in the Norwich game and played quite well in the King's Lynn match.

"We're in a bad position and we desperately need to turn things around as soon as possible.