Editorial (May 21, 2018) – Defender Kemar Lawrence suffered an injury during the New York Red Bulls’ 3-1 win over Atlanta United FC at Mercedes Benz Arena on Sunday. He was transported to a local hospital and kept overnight for observation. Later reports are hopeful for the Jamaican International Kemar Lawrence injury.

Kemar Lawrence Injury Makes Red Bull Win Bittersweet

Scary Stoppage

In the second half, the ball was just outside the penalty box when Lawrence attempted to clear it. He appeared to slip as the ball bounced in front of him, hitting him in the chin or throat as it came back up. Lawrence lay flat, face down on the field, as play continued. Red Bull Goalkeeper Ryan Meara, on his first start of the season, batted away a shot by Miguel Almiron and waved the trainers over. Lawrence continued to lay motionless on the field while RBNY medical staff tried to assess his injury.

Twitter lit up as fans and reporters speculated on the nature and extent of the injury. Fox commentators JP Dellacamera and Tony Meola were reluctant to do the same but did express the gravity of the moment. The treatment on the field contributed to the decision of twelve minutes of stoppage time being added to the second half.

Moments later, Lawrence was in an immobilizer for his head and neck and placed on a golf cart. Coach Jesse Marsch met the cart at the opposite end of the field. Lawrence had regained consciousness and the two hugged before the cart left the field. An ambulance took Lawrence to a local hospital for further evaluation. The latest report is that he is “conscious, fully responsive and in good spirits,” per the team Twitter account.

Adams: “Precautionary” Substitution

While Lawrence was being treated, RBNY midfielder Tyler Adams also left the game. The outside of his right knee was swelling up and he was wincing in pain. With the medical staff on the field, Marsch saw to Adams, filling a bag with ice and helping to place it on Adams’s leg. Haitian international Derrick Etienne Jr. replaced him for the remainder of the match. Following the game, Coach Marsch indicated that Adams’s knee was feeling better and that the substitution was a precautionary measure. The 19-year-old, with three USMNT caps, is rumored to be in talks to sign with Bundesliga team RB Leipzig.

An Outpouring of Support

As the team awaits further reports on Lawrence’s injury, well wishes from around social media continue. Most notably, Atlanta United took a moment to offer their support.

Our thoughts are with you, @kemarkemar24

— x – Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) May 21, 2018

The New York Red Bulls will face the Philadelphia Union this Saturday at home, while Atlanta United travel to New England to face the Revolution May 30.