BASINGSTOKE, England , 27 October (H.S.): An FA Trophy first-round match was abandoned on Saturday after Dorchester Town player-coach Wes Fogden suffered a serious neck injury that resulted in two fractured vertebrae. The game between Dorchester and Basingstoke Town was halted in the first half following the incident on October 25, 2025.

Fogden was injured during the first half of the away game at Basingstoke.

In a statement released after the match, Dorchester Town FC confirmed the severity of the injury. Wes was conscious and talking as he was taken into the ambulance, and scans in hospital yesterday evening have confirmed two fractured vertebrae in his neck, which will require a number of weeks in a neck collar, the club stated.

Both clubs and their supporters have been praised for their conduct following the distressing event. Basingstoke Town FC specifically thanked their physiotherapist, Seanagh McCarthy, for her professionalism and their fans for showing respect, empathy and patience for the injured player.

Supporters from the home team returned to the touchline an hour after the injury to applaud Fogden as he was taken to the hospital.The abandoned fixture has been rescheduled and will be replayed on Tuesday, October 28, 2025.

Dorchester Town expressed gratitude for the support shown and stated they will provide further updates on Fogden’s condition as they become available.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar