PETALING JAYA: Darren Lok has reassured fans that he is recovering well after colliding with a drainage wall during Sabah’s 1-1 Super League draw against Negri Sembilan at Likas Stadium on Saturday.
The 35-year-old striker underwent a CT (computed tomography) scan following the incident and confirmed that no serious damage was detected.
“I am doing okay. I had a CT scan to check for any damage. Luckily, everything is fine – just a headache and a stiff neck,” said Darren, who has been with Sabah since 2023.
However, the national forward is seeking answers to ensure such an incident does not recur.
“I am trying to find out whose responsibility it is and whether the Malaysian Football League carries out proper stadium checks before matches,” he said.
“I want this issue resolved. It could have ended much worse. I’m lucky to have escaped with just a concussion. Players’ safety must be taken seriously. It’s not about blame – it’s about standards.”
Stadium safety has come under scrutiny after Darren collided with the exposed concrete drainage wall while attempting to retrieve the ball.
Match footage captured the alarming moment when he clashed with Negri defender Amirul Adli Azmi before crashing head and body first into the wall.
The impact left Darren writhing in pain as medical personnel rushed onto the pitch to assist him.
Fortunately, he avoided serious injury.
The incident has raised broader concerns over safety measures at match venues, particularly the need for adequate protective barriers around the pitch to safeguard players and officials.
In the match, the Rhinos and the Deer settled for a 1-1 stalemate. Jovan Motika put Negri ahead in the 34th minute before S. Kumaahran equalised for Sabah in the 69th minute.
Sabah sit 10th in the league table with 15 points from 16 matches, while Negri are seventh with 18 points from 17 games.
