The slow commencement of the St George Illawarra Dragons' 2026 season could take a further dip this week as the team awaits updates on its two key playmakers, who both suffered injuries during a 46-20 defeat against Melbourne.
Newly appointed halfback Daniel Atkinson and five-eighth Kyle Flanagan each dealt with ankle injuries throughout what was at times a promising outing in Wollongong.
Coach Shane Flanagan disclosed that both players were heavily bandaged at halftime in an effort to finish the match. With three consecutive losses looming for the Dragons in 2026, the team is now awaiting scans for both athletes this week.
"Both have got bad ankles. They will probably both have to have scans. I watched both tackles, they weren't hip drops but weight landed on the lower legs and they got swung around," Flanagan said. "It's a bit of a concern."
"Both of them got treatment at halftime and had to have their ankles strapped. They're two tough young men and they know how important it is that we don't lose a half. So they just got on with it."