Kiwi custodian’s injury news far worse than expected after round five.
The St George Illawarra Dragons have suffered a massive long-term blow with news fullback Gerard Beale is set to miss the rest of the NRL season after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament.
Beale was taken from the field during his side’s 19-12 win against the Newcastle Knights at WIN Stadium after attemtping to tackle Darius Boyd, with the team learning of the seriousness of the news after scans.
It is a devastating blow for not just the Dragons, who have won their last two games after dropping three to start the season, but for Beale himself.
Despite his team’s mixed fortunes, Beale would be considered a strong chance to be picked in the New Zealand side to play the Kangaroos in the upcoming Test match in Canberra.
However, now the only option for him is likely to be season-ending surgery on the same ACL he has torn previously.
“We will consult with a knee specialist in the upcoming days before proceeding with an ACL reconstruction and subsequent commencement of rehabilitation,” the club’s performance director Andrew Gray said.
“It is disappointing news for Gerard who is such a positive influence amongst our entire playing group.
The injury news for Beale could speed up the Dragons chase of wayward star Josh Dugan, who is still without a club after the Brisbane Broncos walked away from talks at the 11th hour.
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