LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Wests Tigers could be facing a major setback with news that Justin Olam has received a heavy blow from the match review committee for his high shot on Heilum Luki.
Olam, a seasoned player for the Tigers, is in danger of missing the remainder of the season due to a potential four-match ban as a result of the incident.
If Olam chooses to plead guilty early, he will still be out of action for three weeks.
However, if he decides to fight the charge and is unsuccessful at the judiciary, he could be sidelined for a total of four games.
This comes at a crucial time for the Tigers, who are looking to avoid finishing at the bottom of the ladder for the third consecutive year.
Olam's absence on the left edge will be sorely felt in a team that relies heavily on his experience, especially amongst a younger squad.
With only four games left in the season and a bye week approaching, the Tigers will need to make some strategic decisions in light of this setback.
Coach Benji Marshall has expressed his disagreement with the decision to send Olam off during the match, which ultimately led to the Cowboys taking advantage and scoring three quick tries against the Tigers' reduced numbers.
"I've got a group of guys in there who are feeling pretty down about it," Marshall stated after the disappointing 48-30 loss.
The Tigers will need to regroup and assess their options as they look to finish the season on a positive note, despite the setback of potentially losing one of their key players to suspension.