Shocking mid-air collision almost results in broken neck

Sharks fullback Willie Le Roux has miraculously escaped injury after a horror mid-air collision in his side's clash against the Highlanders in Dunedin.

In the 13th minute, Le Roux went up to catch a high ball and was taken out by Highlanders centre Jason Emery.

Le Roux fell on the back of his head and neck and medics rushed to his aid.

Referee Ben O'Keefe was left with no option but to show Emery a red card, reducing the home side to 14 men with 67 minutes to play.

Le Roux left the field for a concussion test, but returned after being cleared, with the Sharks going to on to record a narrow win.