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Anasta Ruled Out

Stomp

Juniors
Messages
468
There were reports earlier in the week that Anasta would play on Sunday.

But, he had a fitness this morning and failed.

Thurston will take his spot, who was 18th man.

Stomp
 

Stomp

Juniors
Messages
468
Here's the article from http://foxsports.news.com.au/story/0,8659,10802782-32462,00.html

THE Bulldogs have suffered a body blow before tomorrow's must-win NRL semifinal against Melbourne, with star pivot Braith Anasta ruled out after failing to overcome a sternum injury.

Anasta flunked a fitness test this morning, ensuring 18th man Johnathan Thurston will step up to play five-eighth at Aussie Stadium tomorrow.

Thurston will start and will share pivot duties with reserve Reni Maitua.

Anasta suffered sternum bruising during the Bulldogs' shock qualifying final loss to the North Queensland Cowboys last Saturday night.

Anasta struggled during the game but looked set to play in the crucial clash against Melbourne after showing improvement at training this week.

However, Anasta couldn't complete his first contact session of the week this morning, opening the door for youngster Thurston.

"He trained during the week but he was unable to take any contact at all (today). That makes it a bit difficult in a game of rugby league," Bulldogs football manager Brad Clyde said.

Melbourne arrive in Sydney this afternoon.

Stomp
 

Broncodroid

Juniors
Messages
2,313
Had to be expected given the nature of the injury and Thurston will not let them down as he has proven when thrown into the team by Folkes.

The key in the halves was not going to be the fitness of Anasta, for me it is Sherwin who is the bigger loss if he was to be ruled out. Given we have heard nothing to suggest he won't be playing, the Bulldogs will be business as usual and IMO will be too strong for Melbourne on the back of a dominating forward pack.
 

Stomp

Juniors
Messages
468
I didn't expect Anasta to play. Susprised he was even given a chance to play, those injuries can be quite bad.

Will he return next weekend? #-o

Stomp
 

ledzep

Bench
Messages
2,521
Thurston didn't play well last week in premier league
Anasta can start his Mad Monday now
 
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