Reece Walsh’s Hospital Visit Adds to Broncos’ Controversial Win
Brisbane star Reece Walsh was rushed to the hospital following the Broncos’ controversial 26-12 victory over Gold Coast. The incident occurred after Walsh, who was playing his 100th NRL match, suffered a suspected fractured cheekbone during a tackle on Titans forward Kurtis Morrin just before halftime.
Walsh had already made a significant impact in the first half with a stunning try that showcased his creative brilliance. However, the moment of contact led to a concussion, prompting medical attention. Broncos coach Michael Maguire confirmed that Walsh was undergoing a scan below his eye, and it remains uncertain whether he will be available for the upcoming match against North Queensland at Lang Park.
The category-one HIA (Head Injury Assessment) ruled Walsh out for the match, adding to the challenges faced by the Broncos in their recent games. Despite this, the Broncos managed to secure the win thanks to standout performances from Ezra Mam and Kotoni Staggs, particularly in the second half.
Mam’s performance was especially notable, as he played a crucial role in the team’s success. However, the game also had moments of controversy, most notably when Gold Coast centre AJ Brimson was denied what appeared to be a fair try due to a forward pass from Lachlan Ilias in the 47th minute.
Following the decision, Brisbane capitalized on the set play, scoring through Gehamat Shibasaki. Despite some strong possession late in the game, the Titans were unable to regain momentum and ultimately fell short.
“It is a hard game and when you earn your opportunity and ice it, and it gets taken away, it is frustrating for the players,” said Titans coach Josh Hannay. “You have got to try and brush that and we just didn’t … so that’s a learn for us and a work-on.”
Dragons Face Harsh Realities After Another Defeat
In another significant development, St George Illawarra’s 32-0 loss to North Queensland left coach Shane Flanagan in a difficult position. The Dragons were booed by fans at a half-empty Kogarah Stadium, marking one of their worst starts to a season with a winless opening five rounds.
The defeat extended the Dragons’ losing streak to nine games, the longest in the joint-venture’s history. Flanagan expressed deep frustration and disappointment, acknowledging the need for improvement. “It’s not good enough for this club,” he said. “I don’t accept it, I am not happy with it, I am terribly disappointed and I am sorry.”
Flanagan also emphasized that he is not ready to give up, despite the pressure mounting on his position. “All I know is it hasn’t worked this year, but I’m not going to give up,” he added.
The situation worsened for the Dragons when co-captain Clint Gutherson limped off with a hamstring injury, further complicating their already challenging season. North Queensland, on the other hand, celebrated three consecutive wins, marking a positive turn for the Cowboys after a difficult start to the season.
The Dragons’ poor performance was highlighted by several key mistakes, including a 90-metre try by Braidon Burns, which came off a wayward pass from Lyhkan King-Togia. This moment was particularly damaging as the Cowboys were down to 12 men due to Reuben Cotter’s sin-binning.
King-Togia, who was filling in for the concussed Kyle Flanagan, struggled throughout the match, while Dan Atkinson’s kicking game was inconsistent, with multiple grubbers failing to make an impact.
“It just wasn’t good enough,” Flanagan admitted. “We looked like we didn’t know each other at different stages, passes behind each other, a lack of cohesion. It was very disappointing.”
