Birdwood Football Club player Antonio Loiacono dies after on-field collision

A young gun SA country footballer has died after an on-field collision during a season-opening game on the weekend.

A hills footballer has been injured in a football match at Gumeracha Oval. Picture: 9 News

A star country footballer has died after an on-field collision during an Hills Football League season opening game.

Birdwood Football Club utility Antonio Loiacono suffered critical injuries during the final quarter of his A-Grade side’s match against Gumeracha in the Hills Football League on Saturday.

Antonio Loiacono was critically injured during an on field collision at Gumeracha Oval. Picture: Facebook

Hills footballer Antonio Loiacono has been injured in a football match at Gumeracha Oval. Picture: 9 News

He was treated at the scene before speciality paramedics were called to the Gumeracha Oval and was flown to Royal Adelaide Hospital just before 8pm.

A family member of Mr Loiacono told The Advertiser the young footballer had died on Sunday night. He is being remembered as a “bright light” by his family.

Loiacono, 20, previously played for Waikerie in the Riverland Football League last season and also represented Norwood’s Under 18 side in 2019.

The result of the match, which kicked off at 5.30pm, remains pending.

An SANFL spokesperson said the league was offering the family and club all the support it can.