LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a dramatic turn of events, the Melbourne Storm find themselves facing a potential fullback dilemma as they gear up for round one of the Rugby League season.
Their star player, Sua Fa'alogo, hobbled off the field with a hamstring injury during their recent clash against the Cowboys, leaving coach Craig Bellamy scratching his head.
Bellamy expressed serious concerns on Saturday as he revealed that Ryan Papenhuyzen, a key player in the Storm lineup, is unlikely to be fit for their season opener against the Eels due to lingering knee and ankle issues.
This has opened the door for Fa'alogo to step up and take on the fullback role, a position he has filled admirably in the past.
However, Fa'alogo's own injury woes have now cast a shadow of doubt over his availability, as he was forced to leave the game early in the second half with tightness in his hamstring.
As the Storm weigh their options, Nick Meaney emerges as a strong contender to step in if both Fa'alogo and Papenhuyzen are ruled out.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their fullback situation, the Storm are determined to ensure Fa'alogo's fitness for the upcoming clash.
His impressive performance, including a quick reaction try just before half-time, highlighted his value to the team.
The match also took a frightening turn in the final minutes when young player Hugo Peel was knocked unconscious in a collision with a teammate.
Peel was swiftly taken off the field in an ambulance, leaving fans and teammates shaken by the harrowing incident.