Hockey punch-ups can typically be drawn-out affairs ending inconclusively however that was removed from the case when Canada’s Mark Louis threw down with rival Patrik Maier within the Slovak Tipos Extraliga.
Dukla Michalovce defenseman Louis was a speedy victor in his fist combat with Slovan Bratislava’s Maier, detonating a brutal proper hand which immediately despatched Maier crashing face-first onto the ice.
Worryingly, the 24-year-old remained immobile as each groups watched on with concern earlier than a stretcher was lastly introduced onto the ice to remove the stricken Maier, who was seen holding a bloodied hand on his head.
Fortunately, Maier did later come to his senses though reportedly couldn’t recall any particulars of the incident which rendered him unconscious.
The disturbing scenes have been later summed by teammate Marian Studenic, who stated: “I felt sick after I noticed a teammate mendacity immobile on the ice.
“I imagine Patrick will probably be high quality and will probably be rapidly again within the lineup.”
Bratislava assistant coach Rudolf Jendek commented “somebody there made an enormous mistake,” with out elaborating.
In what could also be some comfort for the bruised and battered Maier, the match led to a 7:four victory for Slovan over their less-fancied rivals.
Additionally on rt.com
Canadian pugilist Louis, 33, solely joined the Dukla Michalovce ranks this season, having final performed for the Cardiff Devils within the UK.
It is secure to say he is a person few will need to mess with after already making his mark in his new league.