A Derry man alleged to have carried out a 'one-punch attack' which has left a local footballer in a critical condition in hospital has been remanded in custody.
Matthew McDermot, 22, of Cornshell Fields, is charged with grievous bodily harm with intent and possession of class A drug, namely ecstasy.
The alleged offences occurred yesterday at 1am.
A police constable appearing in Derry Magistrates Court said the PSNI had received a report saying 'a man had been knocked out' outside a bar on Waterloo Street.
The victim is Institute player Niall Grace (pictured above).
The court heard the injured party had a cut to his head was vomiting and bleeding from his nose.
His condition deteriorated when he was taken to Altnagelvin Hospital.
From there he was transferred to Belfast Royal Victoria Hospital where he remains in an induced coma.
This morning the hospital confirmed the injured party was 'still critical, but stable' and 'further treatment may be needed'.
The police said there was evidence at the scene in relation to the blood and vomit.
McDermot's movements were tracked by police after the incident and he was arrested a short time later.
The court was told the defendant has no previous convictions.
Having reviewed CCTV footage from the night, police said the defendant was 'looking for a fight'.
Bail was objected to on grounds police 'believe the defendant will commit further offences'.
Referring to CCTV, Ms Coulter said you can see that 'both men walk towards each other' and 'both throw a punch' before they both fall to the ground.
She asked the police constable whether he would agree that the 'substantial injury' was caused by the fall.
He said: "That would be my interpretation."
The defence solicitor said that when her client heard of the injuries to the victim 'he was very emotional'.
McDermot was described as coming from a family who have never been in trouble with police.
He plays Gaelic football and has a full-time job.
The defence solicitor said the seriousness of the offence 'can't be ignored', but it is a significant time before the matters will be dealt with.
She said McDermot is willing to abide by any conditions and is a 'prime candidate for bail'.
Making his decision, District Judge Peter King referred to the concerns raised by police about reoffending and the safety of the defendant if released on bail.
He said: "We all know the dangers a one punch attack can have on the recipient."
The judge said it may be the case that the defendant is 'facing more serious charges' down the line.
He said he does 'not believe' the defendant is suitable for bail.
McDermot was remanded in custody to appear before court again on September 22.
If you have a story or want to send a photo or video to us please contact the Derry Now editorial team. Between 9am and 5pm Monday to Sunday please call 028 7129 6600 for Derry City stories or 028 7774 3970 for County Derry stories. Between 5pm and midnight please call or text 07825 711978. Or you can email john.gill@derrynews.net at any time.