LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a cruel twist of fate, Broncos youngster Ethan O'Neill has found his NRL dreams shattered by a serious injury.
The young forward, who had been pushing for a coveted contract with the Brisbane Broncos, suffered a fractured eye socket during last weekend's trial match against the Manly Sea Eagles.
The incident, which went viral on social media, saw O'Neill clutching desperately at his eye in immediate agony.
Rushed to the hospital, it was revealed that the severity of his injury would keep him sidelined for up to six weeks, causing him to miss the start of the NRL and QLD Cup season.
However, there is a glimmer of hope, as Broncos official Chris Muckert has given him a slim chance of returning in just four weeks' time.
The setback is a bitter blow for O'Neill, the son of former Origin representative Julian O'Neill, as he had been hoping to make a big impression in the upcoming season.
Nevertheless, like a true rugby league warrior, he remains determined to bounce back stronger than ever.