BILLY VIGAR’S team-mate Kieran Magee has opened up on the tragic accident that killed the ex-Arsenal starlet.
Magee plays in goal for Chichester City and was on the pitch as Vigar suffered a fatal brain injury last weekend.
Vigar received lengthy treatment after colliding with a pitchside brick wall before being airlifted to hospital.
The footballer entered a coma and underwent brain surgery but tragically died from his injuries aged 21 on Thursday.
Speaking to the Mail, Magee relived the horror of what happened.
The 30-year-old said: “It’s still very raw as to what we saw. An absolute freak accident, he’s collided with the concrete wall around the perimeter of the pitch.
“It was past the goal-line so at the end of the pitch. For the whole team that were playing at the time, not just us but the Wingate & Finchley players as well, it’s a traumatic memory for us.
“There were a few guys that stayed with him, and the physios from both clubs. There were a couple members of the crowd who were medically trained and came over, too. The paramedics turned up extremely quickly and took over from there.
“We were with him until we couldn’t be. We knew it was serious very quickly.
“It’s going to be at the forefront of everyone’s mind for a long, long time going forward.”
Magee has since launched a GoFundMe page, which is looking to raise money in order support to Vigar’s family “in any way they may need and to help create a lasting legacy that extends far beyond football”.
The goalkeeper described Vigar as “a really humble young lad” and the “most kind, normal bloke you could meet”.
Following Vigar’s death, a petition was launched calling for pitchside brick walls to be banned.
The campaign was passionately backed by Dorking Wanderers owner Marc White, who called the concrete walls “dangerous” and “lethal”.
Football Association chiefs have since confirmed that they will be launching an investigation into the matter.
Tributes have been paid for Vigar from across football, including his former club Arsenal.
The Gunners, and their opponents Newcastle, wore black armbands during their match at St James’ Park.
Both Chichester City, and last weekend’s opponents Wingate & Finchley, saw their scheduled matches postponed yesterday.
The latter’s scheduled home clash with Folkestone Invicta, originally due to place at Maurice Rebak Stadium on Tuesday, has also been postponed.
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