The JC MSFL Division Three match between Pure Orange Function Band and Zig Zag was abandoned after POFB captain Michael Lax suffered a broken leg following a
challenge from Nick Levy.

With no qualified referee available, Zig Zag manager Neal Cohen took charge but halted proceedings after 42 minutes when Levy’s tackle left Lax with a broken tibia and fibula.

Lax, who is getting married in August, was taken to the Royal Free Hospital by ambulance and had two pins inserted in his leg on Monday. Cohen has suspended Levy from the club and may not allow him to play for Zig Zag again. The player could also receive a further punishment from the league.

A POFB statement said: “Neal Cohen has submitted a referees report and Pure Orange will write to the MSFL and London FA so that they can take appropriate action.

“Mike will be in hospital for a few more days and we all wish him a speedy recovery and hope that he is not off work for too long.

“We all hope that he is able to dance at his wedding without any pain or problems. Mike is one of the best players at our club, and as captain, always leads by example. It will be a sad loss to us both in terms of his ability as well as having him around the dressing room.”
Cohen commented: “It was a good, clean game up until the incident.

I would also like to apologise on behalf of the club and wish Mike well. I have sent the referee’s report to the London FA so they will deal with the rest.

“I look forward to the re-match and hope you are all ok and there are no hard feelings towards Zig Zag FC.”