Knights face injury concerns after key players leave field against Roosters
Knights face multiple injury setbacks
The Newcastle Knights experienced significant injury challenges during their recent 23-22 loss to the Sydney Roosters. Two key players, Dylan Lucas and Dylan Brown, were forced to leave the field with potentially serious injuries, casting doubt on their availability for upcoming matches.
Dylan Lucas sustained a dislocated and suspected fractured left ankle in the first half. He was stretchered off the field after his left foot appeared to bend in an unnatural direction. Teammates quickly called for medical assistance, and Lucas was seen with his hands on his head as he was moved to the medicab. Initial reports from the field suggested a significant problem for Lucas, with his season potentially over.
Later in the match, Dylan Brown suffered a left knee injury. The incident occurred as Brown made a hard step on his left foot while approaching a rival player, causing his knee to give way. Post-match, Knights coach Justin Holbrook indicated that the early diagnosis for Brown was not positive. The club expressed hope that Brown had not suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury, though it was noted that the injury was to the same knee that had previously sidelined him earlier in the year. Brown is scheduled for scans in the coming days.
Match details and other injuries
The match itself was a close contest, with the Roosters ultimately securing a 23-22 victory. James Tedesco of the Roosters scored a hat-trick, contributing significantly to his team’s win. Billy Smith appeared to seal the win for the Roosters in the 68th minute, but Bradman Best responded quickly to level the scores with six minutes remaining. The decisive moment came when Daly Cherry-Evans slotted a field goal in the final moments, securing the win for the Roosters.
In addition to Lucas and Brown’s injuries, the Knights also lost Francis Manuleleua and Tyson Frizell to head injury assessments in the second half. Newcastle was already without Kalyn Ponga due to a leg injury. The Roosters also faced an injury concern, with Daniel Tupou leaving the field with a suspected shoulder injury.
Despite the mounting injuries, coach Holbrook expressed pride in his team’s performance, stating he was “devastated but proud” of the result given the circumstances. Phoenix Crossland, who captained the team, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the team’s fight against a largely full-strength Roosters side.
Several players were placed on report during the match. Egan Butcher and Nat Butcher of the Roosters were placed on report for high shots on Knights players. Victory Radley was also placed on report for a crusher tackle, and Tyson Frizell for dangerous contact on the legs of an opponent.
The Roosters‘ victory marked their fifth consecutive win and temporarily moved them into second position, securing a finals berth. For the Knights, this loss was their third in a row and their first home loss in six games. They have now played eight consecutive games decided by 6 points or less.
The Roosters have maintained a strong record against the Knights, having won six straight and 10 of their last 11 clashes. The Knights will now face road trips against the Broncos and Raiders in the coming fortnight.
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Source: nine.com.au
