LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Parramatta Eels have suffered a devastating blow ahead of their clash with the Penrith Panthers, with Bailey Simonsson being ruled out for the remainder of the match.
The news, reported by zerotackle.com, confirms that Simonsson failed a HIA and will not be able to return to the field.
After being taken off for examination by an independent doctor, it was clear that the Eels had limited options in the outside back positions.
Kelma Tuilagi has been shifted to the centres, while Morgan Harper will now be tasked with patrolling the wing.
Unfortunately, Simonsson is not the only Eels player to fall victim to a HIA on this fateful day.
Earlier in the NSW Cup match, Samuel Loizou suffered the same fate and was subsequently ruled out, adding to Parramatta's woes.
Facing off against the reigning premiers in the Panthers, the Eels started off on a high note as hooker Joey Lussick managed to score a try within the first three minutes of the game.
But with injuries plaguing the team, they will need to dig deep and show some true grit to come out on top.