Brisbane Broncos coach Kevin Walters makes statement after worrying footage of Reece Walsh
- Reece Walsh got into some distress during the Tigers game
- Star fullback was subbed off very late in the match
- Walters says Walsh did not suffer any serious injuries
Broncos coach Kevin Walters has been criticized for his decision to replace Reece Walsh from the field late in Saturday night’s 34-10 win over the Wests Tigers.
The superstar full-back gave fans cause for concern at several points in the second half as he appeared to experience some discomfort on the pitch.
Walsh struggled to his feet while making tackles, vomited after scoring his second try and also clutched his calf and knee with what appeared to be a cramp.
Despite this, Queensland’s No. 1 remained on the field until very late in the match.
Walters assured footy fans that Walsh was fine and had not suffered any serious injuries.
Kevin Walters (pictured) has been criticized for his decision to replace Reece Walsh off the pitch very late in Saturday’s match
Walters says Walsh (pictured) was not injured during the match and will play next week
“He (Walsh) threw up first and then he started having cramps,” Walters said.
“He had every injury known to man tonight, but he’s doing well. He’ll be fine next week, so that’s a good thing.’
Adam Reynolds also struggled towards the end of last night’s match, coming off with cramps in the 77th minute.
Jock Madden will have scans on his chest injury as star duo Selwyn Cobbo and Ezra Mam race against time to be fit for the Broncos’ clash with the Sydney Roosters.
Madden, who played at five-eighth, left the field in the 61st minute of Saturday night’s 34-10 win over Wests Tigers in Campbelltown.
He will have scans made on Monday to assess the extent of the damage.
Center Cobbo (shoulder) and Brisbane regular number 6 Mam (finger) missed the Tigers clash.
The pair will train on Tuesday before their injuries will be assessed ahead of Friday night’s clash with the Roosters at Suncorp Stadium.
The last time the Broncos played the Roosters – in Las Vegas for March’s high-profile season opener – Mom was called a ‘monkey’ by Tricolors sponsor Spencer Leniu, who was subsequently suspended for eight weeks for racist comments.
The incident, reported by Mom to the referees on the field and supported in writing by teammates after the match, ensures an explosive rematch.
Brisbane coach Kevin Walters said after Saturday’s Tigers win that Mam and Madden were doubtful for the game against the Roosters.
“I wouldn’t think so (mom would play) … and Jock might not either,” Walters said when asked about the duo’s expected availability.
‘We’ll think of something. I’m not sure. Jock is in quite a bit of pain and the turnaround time is shorter, but we’re not going to endanger Ezra this early in the season.
“We can play anyone there and they will get the job done for us.”
If both are unavailable, Walters could slot the versatile Tristan Sailor into the No. 6 role or shift Billy Walters – who previously played in the halves at NRL level – from No. 9.