A FOOTBALL team in Tadley have received a portable defibrillator following a medical emergency that saw a visiting player collapse in the middle of a match.

Tadley Calleva FC thanked TheBigMatch charity for providing the portable defibrillator, which is used to help people suffering a sudden cardiac arrest.

The Tadley side were leading 3-0 against Sheerwater at Barlows Park in the Combined Counties League Premier League South when the match was abandoned in the 62nd minute following a medical emergency.

The speed at which both club’s staff reacted and the care afforded to Sheerwater player Andre Smith, who had been substituted, meant he is now back home and recovering with his family.

READ MORE: Firm urges Hampshire clients to register defibrillators to save lives

He was discharged from the hospital after a number of tests, given the serious nature of his situation.

Andre is now home and resting and feeling okay, according to a Facebook post by Sheerwater.

“We thank Tadley staff and our own staff for their prompt response to the situation,” the Woking-based club said.

Tadley player Shemar Pettet, a senior assistant at Elysium healthcare, and physio Carolyn Tuttle, were both praised by the club for the way they reacted to the distressing incident.

Sheerwater defender Liam Pestle said: “I want to say a massive thank you to all at Tadley especially the number 2 and the lady physio. You guys were fantastic in aiding our player.

“We would like to pass on our gratitude to them for their efforts in assisting the player during the incident. They are a credit to the club.”

SEE ALSO: Swimmer complains of 'dangerous' heating of Tadley pool water

Following the distressing incident, Tadley immediately contacted Neil Humphries, founder of the award-winning charity The Big Match, which supports local and national football causes.

Much to the club’s delight, a portable defibrillator was delivered to Barlows Park within 24 hours.

Mr Humphries said: “Firstly we are all glad Andre has recovered. The staff did an excellent job.

 “The Big Match had, up to that point, donated 49 defibrillators to schools, grassroots organisations and community hubs. 

 “We donate portable units to ensure they are close to hand should the need arise like that of Andre’s. 

“Tadley contacted me to see if I could help get a unit, We delivered it 24 hours later.”