Cayless injury rocks Eels
http://www.smh.com.au/news/league/cayless-injury-rocks-eels/2006/08/20/1156012412196.html?page=fullpage#contentSwap1
Glenn Jackson and Brad Walter
August 21, 2006
PARRAMATTA'S burgeoning premiership prospects were hanging last night on the results of X-rays on skipper Nathan Cayless after the prop suffered a potentially season-ending injury which would leave their front-row stocks all but bare.
With the Eels already without six front-rowers through injury or suspension, Cayless was waiting last night on results of an X-ray to confirm a possible fractured eye socket.
Eels doctor Michael Johnson confirmed a fracture could result in Cayless missing the rest of the season, although the more likely scenario would have him sidelined until the finals.
"It's 50-50 at this stage whether it's a fracture," Johnson said. "We just have to wait on the results of the X-rays. But if it is a fracture, it'll be a couple of weeks minimum. It's possible it could be the rest of the season."
The Kiwi Test veteran was injured after just 15 minutes yesterday. He was eventually taken to the Hills Private Hospital as it became clear the damage might be serious.
"He was in a lot of pain when he tried to move his eye," Johnson said. "Time will tell."
Even if X-rays clear him, Cayless was still concussed and faces being out for this Sunday's clash with Brisbane.
The injury cast a cloud over the Eels' ninth successive win yesterday. It follows injuries to fellow front-rowers Aaron Cannings, Michael Vella, Adam Peek and Justin Tsoulos and the loss of Fuifui Moimoi through suspension. Paul Stringer retired midway through the season because of an ongoing back problem.
With the Eels' front-row stocks at their lowest, doubts will be raised about their ability to win the premiership, despite their irresistible form. Chad Robinson, switched to prop from second-row because of the club's shortage up front, suffered a broken nose yesterday but is not expected to be out for any length of time.
