LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Sydney Roosters are facing a major setback as they head into their upcoming match against the Melbourne Storm.
Young star Billy Smith has been ruled out of the semi-final due to a broken jaw.
This news comes as a blow to the Roosters, who are already without three other key outside backs.
Smith sustained the injury in the second half of their thrilling victory over the Sharks.
He was on the receiving end of a shoulder to the head from Tom Hazelton.
Despite the injury, Smith showed incredible resilience by staying on the field and even managed to kick his first NRL goal, leveling the score.
Unfortunately, the club's medical staff confirmed on Monday that Smith will be unable to play in the upcoming match.
He now joins a growing list of injured players that includes Daniel Tupou, Joseph Manu, and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii.
With the absence of these players, the Roosters will heavily rely on their captain, James Tedesco, as the sole remaining member of their impressive backline.
Tedesco, who himself suffered a similar jaw injury in 2016, commended Smith for his toughness and determination to play through the pain.
"It's pretty tough to do what he did to get through the game," Tedesco remarked.
The Roosters will now have to regroup and strategize how to overcome this setback in order to secure a spot in the grand final.