Forward Nanda Kumar led Rail Wheel Factory to a fine win over DYES after triggering alarm all round, collapsing on the pitch during their BDFA Super Divison league tie at the Bangalore Football Stadium here on Wednesday.
Just three minutes into the second period, Nanda, who had put RWF ahead in the first half, fell unconscious, suffering from breathing problems. Sensing the gravity of the situation, referee Stanley Jones immediately stopped play as physios rushed onto the field to assess Nanda’s condition.
He was then carried to the ambulance, which was at hand, for treatment. After close to 15 minutes, he recovered and insisted on playing again. Nanda said he returned to the pitch because he wanted to help his team, which is battling relegation, win the match. And he did just that with another goal in the 48th minute, making it 2-0.
Nanda, who visited a clinic for a check up after the match, said he felt fine after the game.
RWF are now eighth on the table with six points from eight games while DYES continue to languish at the bottom, with one point from eight matches.
Earlier in the ‘A’ Division, Postal Department and Bangalore Eagles played out a goalless draw.
Results: Super Division: RWF: 2 (Nanda Kumar 44th, 48th) bt DYES: 0.
‘A’ Division: Postal Department: 0 drew with Bangalore Eagles: 0.