1999 Vauxhall Corsa head gasket

my car broke down and had to be towed home,the mechanic sid it looks like the head gasket has gone. i heard a ticking noise when driving then started to lose pressure so pulled over and turned the engine off. i tried to start it but nothing. 10 minuites later and from then on my car will turn over but wont start. is this possible when the gasket has blown?
and does this diagnosis sound correct?
many tanks,ANTHONY.