LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a cruel twist of fate, the Broncos have been dealt a blow with both Payne Haas and Kotoni Staggs facing doubts for their upcoming clash with the Roosters.
Just as they were gearing up to field a full-strength team for the first time since round one, the dynamic duo suffered injuries during training on Thursday.
Haas, who had only recently returned to the squad after undergoing minor surgery on his knee earlier in the year, was seen with his right knee strapped up as he limped off the training field.
Meanwhile, Staggs, the talented centre, was also nursing a knee concern, casting a shadow of uncertainty over their availability for the match.
Both players will be assessed in the lead-up to the showdown, with a decision on their fitness expected to be made on Friday morning.
Broncos coach Kevin Walters remains hopeful that Haas will be able to take the field, but acknowledges the importance of prioritizing the player's long-term well-being over rushing him back too soon.
"We will give him until kick-off, but if he's not fit he won't play.
If he is fit and ready, we will play him.
He has had a little bit of trouble with it.
I would be saying he is playing tomorrow," Walters commented with a hint of optimism.
"It's too early in the season to take any risks, particularly with Payne and his knee."
As the Broncos brace themselves for a challenging clash against the Roosters, they will be hoping to overcome these setbacks and put on a strong performance on the field.
The fate of Haas and Staggs hangs in the balance, adding an extra layer of intrigue to an already highly anticipated match.