Dementia in Sport: New concussion rules only scratching the surface

Amid St Patrick’s Athletic’s FAI Cup celebrations, James Abankwah became their youngest ever finalist - and the first 'concussion sub'

EYE ON THE BALL: Junior Quitirna of Waterford in action against James Abankwah of St Patrick's Athletic during an Airtricity League clash. Abankwah appeared in the FAI Cup final as a concussion sub under a new rule. Picture: Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile

Amid St Patrick’s Athletic’s FAI Cup celebrations, James Abankwah became their youngest ever finalist but his appearance was historic for another reason.

The 17-year-old’s introduction from the bench on Sunday at Aviva Stadium came after fellow centre-back Paddy Barrett suffered a head injury, necessitating what’s termed an additional “concussion sub”.