LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Newcastle Knights head coach Adam O'Brien is facing a tough challenge as he expects to be without key players James Schiller, Jacob Saifiti, and Jack Hetherington in the upcoming game.
The team suffered multiple injuries during their recent match against the Canterbury Bulldogs, with Saifiti tearing his calf while warming up and Schiller sustaining a concussion early in the game.
O'Brien revealed the extent of Saifiti's injury, stating, "He warmed up, he was fine, and he usually gives one little blast of energy before he does the kick-off carry.
He tore a calf." The Knights were left with just 14 players by the end of the match, with Jack Cogger also playing through a dislocated finger.
Despite the setbacks, the Knights are hopeful for the return of Tex Hoy and Kurt Mann from injury, with Phoenix Crossland also expected to come back from suspension.
However, the team's depth will be further tested as Cogger is also uncertain to play in the next game.
O'Brien expressed his frustration with the team's injury woes, stating, "We were down on the feet, we had no interchange, we had five people carrying injuries.
We were against the wind playing with 14."
The Knights' inability to field a full team due to injuries has plagued their performances, with O'Brien acknowledging the impact it has had on the team's performance.
Despite the setbacks, the team remains focused on regrouping and preparing for their next challenge.
O'Brien remains optimistic about the team's resilience, emphasizing the need for the players to step up and fill the gaps left by the injured players.
As the Knights continue to navigate through their injury crisis, O'Brien remains hopeful for the return of key players, including star player Mitchell Pearce and the imminent return of Tex Hoy.
The Knights will have to regroup and refocus in order to overcome their injury woes and bounce back in their upcoming games.