Emiliano Martínez left the field on a stretcher after a worrying collision brought Everton’s Premier League meeting with Chelsea to a halt at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Chelsea, managed by Xabi Alonso, were 1-0 ahead when the incident occurred in the 65th minute of the seventh-round fixture. What had been an otherwise routine afternoon suddenly became a long wait for both sets of players and supporters.
Quick facts
- Chelsea led Everton 1-0 at the time of the stoppage.
- The collision came from an Everton free-kick in the 65th minute.
- Emiliano Martínez and Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite clashed while challenging for the ball.
- The match was paused for around 10 minutes.
- Penders replaced Martínez, with 11 minutes added at the end.
Everton sent a free-kick into the six-yard area and Martínez came out to punch clear. In doing so, the Argentine goalkeeper collided head-first with Branthwaite, who was also left shaken and appeared to have blood around his mouth.
Martínez fell in a position which immediately concerned those around him. Medical staff from both clubs were quickly on the pitch as teammates watched on during a deeply uncomfortable break in play.
After close to 10 minutes of treatment, Martínez was carried off to applause from the whole ground. He appeared conscious as he was taken towards the tunnel, though clearly dazed, and was able to move both arms.
Penders came on in place of the former Aston Villa goalkeeper and the game resumed. The lengthy medical delay was reflected in the 11 minutes of stoppage time added to the match.
