The FA Cup third-round clash between Blackpool and Nottingham Forest was halted on Wednesday night due to an emergency in the stands at Bloomfield Road. A thrilling game saw the two sides locked at 2-2 when at half-time in extra-time, medical staff from both clubs rushed to attend to a fan in the away section after being alerted by players.
The players remained on the field as the treatement took place, with the action allowed to resume several minutes later. Forest fans duly applauded the medics as they left the scene of the emergency, with the situation seemingly resolved.
Staff and players were also praised on social media, with @Jessiikerr writing: “The speed the Forest team summoned medical attention for that fan was brilliant! Yes the whistle had blown but their concern you could see. I hope that fan is okay.” @The92Bible added: “Medical emergency in the Nottingham Forest end at Bloomfield Road. Our best wishes to the fan. Well done to the Forest players for quickly alerting medics.”
The incident took place amid a dramatic cup-tie, with the Premier League side appearing to be cruising towards the fourth round after goals from Andrew Omobamidele and Danilo. But the hosts hit back, Albie Morgan scoring before and Kyle Joseph levelled just 12 minutes from time.
And in the dying seconds the Tangerines had a golden chance to record a famous cup upset, as substitute Karamoko Dembele went clean through and rounded keeper Odysseas Vlachodimos. However, Forest defender Orel Mangala got back to block his shot on the line.
There were no further goals in the first 15 minutes of extra-time, before the delay took place. But when play did belatedly resume, it was Forest who came out the stronger.
And they won the tie 13 minutes from time, as Ryan Yates fired in a low cross and Chris Wood reacted quickly to score from close range. Nuno Espirito Santo’s side will now travel to play Bristol Rovers in the fourth round.
Following the final whistle, both clubs took to their official social media accounts to acknowledge the outcome. Neither have as yet commented on the incident in the crowd.
The tie was the last from the third round to be completed. Earlier in the evening, Everton beat Crystal Palace 1-0 while Norwich won 3-1 away to Bristol Rovers.
