Jets victory soured by horror leg injury
A GRUESOME injury to Ronald Vargas soured Newcastle’s 2-1 A-League victory over Brisbane last night.
The Jets continued their unbeaten start to the new season courtesy of goals from in-form striker Roy O’Donovan and former Roar midfielder Dimitri Petratos. However, it came at an enormous cost.
Venezuelan international Vargas was stretchered from the field after a seemingly innocuous collision with Brisbane skipper Matt McKay in the 58th minute.
The 30-year-old’s left leg became trapped underneath him, causing him to break his tibia and fibula while also dislocating his ankle.
McKay called for medical attention as soon as it happened while curious players turned away once they saw the extent of the damage, with sideline commentators reporting Vargas’ bone had come through his sock.
“The win means nothing, really,” Jets coach Ernie Merrick said after the match, fighting back tears. “It’s one of the worst (injuries I’ve seen).
“He was just loving life in Newcastle ... he’s just come over with his wife, settling in, good lad.
“It was a big move for him and I guess he’ll be going to the surgeon tonight.”
Brisbane coach John Aloisi said it was a tough moment for everyone involved.
“No one wants to see anyone get injured, especially like that,” Aloisi said.
“I know Matt McKay was distraught, he found it hard to get going again because to see it and be right next to it.
“We just wish him a good recovery and hopefully we get to see him play again because he’s a quality player.”
Brisbane started French recruit Eric Bautheac, who had encouraging touches before exiting at halftime.
The Roar thought they had an equaliser in the 70th minute after Massimo Maccarone split two defenders.
But it was disallowed by video assistant referee Peter Green, who spotted Maccarone straying offside in the build-up to the move – much to the anger of the 10,104 fans at Suncorp Stadium.
IT’S ONE OF THE WORST (INJURIES I’VE SEEN). HE WAS JUST LOVING LIFE IN NEWCASTLE NEWCASTLE COACH ERNIE MERRICK