Player down

[mbyron]

Medically, there would be no significant difference between stopping play immediately and letting a fast break finish -- we're talking at most 10 seconds, and probably more like 5. Even if the injured player had stopped breathing, an extra 10 seconds is not going to be significant.

However, as we know the important thing is often not medical reality but public perception and the threat of litigation. The manual instructs us to stop play "when necessary to protect the player" (p. 40) though few of us are likely qualified to judge that, other than the kid getting stepped on.

I do like the idea of one official remaining behind with the injured player, though this is feasible mainly in 3-whistle mechanics. Be sure not to touch the injured player, however (another instruction in the manual).