There was a lengthy delay in the Isuzu UTE A-League clash between Melbourne City and Adelaide United at AAMI Park on Sunday night as Reds midfielder Juande was treated for a serious leg injury.
The incident occurred in the 66th minute as the Spaniard stretched to recover the ball and collided with City’s Florin Berenguer. Immediately, it was clear that medical assistance would be needed.
Proceedings were halted for over 30 minutes as Juande was assessed and taken to hospital.
On social media, there was criticism over the fact an ambulance was not on hand at the ground to take action in situations such as this.
However, the reason why actually dates back to 2018 when static ambulances were withdrawn by Ambulance Victoria and Emergency Physicians were installed instead.
That change was approved by the PFA.
“In November 2018, static ambulance services were withdrawn by Ambulance Victoria and instead Emergency Physicians were installed at the stadium,” APL Commissioner Greg O’Rourke said.
“Emergency Physicians are doctors who have specialised in emergency medicine. As special practitioners, they are able to provide a higher level of care than a paramedic.
“That change was approved by PFA in 2018 and has been policy in Victoria ever since. In every other state it remains policy to have static ambulances.”
Indeed, there were actually two doctors on hand to treat Juande on this occasion.
The match finished 3-3, with Jamie Maclaren levelling the score via the penalty spot in the 91st minute.
Perhaps, the Reds’ full-time tweet put it best.
