The Melbourne City defender jumped for a defensive header, but landed awkwardly and suffered what appeared to be a serious injury to his left ankle.

After receiving on-field treatment, Atkinson was stretchered off and taken to hospital to undergo further assessment.

“We don’t think it’s a break,” Joyce said. “That’s the latest feedback we’ve got from the hospital, but obviously we’ll have to wait until we hear for sure.

“We’re awaiting confirmation, but it could be ligaments – it could be anything. So, we will wait and see."

Atkinson’s teammate Dario Vidosic bagged a brace late on to seal all three points in style, but was reluctant to celebrate the win.

“This win comes on a sour note with Nathaniel’s injury,” he said.

“Our prayers are with him and we hope that it’s nothing serious.”

Atkinson made his City debut against Central Coast Mariners in December and has featured in every A-League game since.

Despite his injury, Atkinson received a match rating of 8 in FourFourTwo’s player ratings – his highest all season.

Joyce’s men will now hope to build on Sunday’s triumphant win and close the gap on second place Newcastle Jets who they face this Thursday night at AAMI Park.