A referee was struck in the face by a sliotar in a “freak accident” at a GAA match that took place last weekend.

Things took a turn during an under-14s hurling match when referee Damian Lynch was officiating, with a sliotar striking him in the face, causing him to be hospitalised.

Immediately those in attendance at the match, along with the young hurling players taking part in the game, rushed to call emergency services after they noticed just how serious the injury was.

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An ambulance sped to the scene and paramedics, along with other medical staff, treated Mr Lynch before he was taken away to hospital to be further treated for his injuries.

Described as a “freak accident” by Wexford GAA, everyone in the local community has wished Mr Lynch well as he embarks on his recovery.

A spokesperson for Wexford GAA told the Irish Mirror: “CLG Loch Garman confirms that referee Damian Lynch suffered injuries in a freak accident which occurred during an U14 hurling match at the weekend when he was struck in the face by a sliotar.”

Wexford GAA praised match-goers who realised how serious the situation was, springing into action to ring emergency services to attend to Damien as they wished him a speedy recovery from his injuries.

They added: “Credit is due to those at the match who recognised the seriousness of the situation and called an ambulance, and also to the paramedics who attended and other medical staff involved in his treatment.

“We join with all in the GAA community in wishing him well with his recovery.”

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