LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Panthers have suffered a late blow as Izack Tago has been ruled out of their game against the Warriors due to a suspected pec injury.
Tago's injury comes as a disappointment for the team, as he has been limited to just 14 games this season due to previous pec and hamstring injuries.
Panthers coach Ivan Cleary commented on Tago's condition during a press conference, simply stating "we're good" when asked about the player's status.
However, the team sheet later confirmed the news of Tago's injury, forcing a change in the lineup.
Tyrone Peachey will now start at centre for the game, while Jaeman Salmon will take his place on the bench in what will be his final game as a Panther before joining the Bulldogs.
Salmon, who was initially named as the 18th man and not expected to play, expressed his willingness to contribute to the team despite not being in the starting lineup.
He stated, "I'll do everything for the team."
This injury setback adds to the challenges faced by the Panthers as they enter the qualifying final against the Warriors.
They will have to rely on their remaining squad members to step up and fill the gap left by Tago's absence.