In a crushing blow to the Sea Eagles’ finals chances, star back rower Haumole Olakau’atu is set to spend several weeks on the sideline after dislocating his shoulder for the second time in six weeks.
The injury occurred when Olakau’atu was attempting a tackle on Viliame Kikau during Manly’s loss to the Bulldogs.
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Olakau’atu grimaced in pain as soon as he made contact with Kikau and was on the ground for several minutes nursing his arm before being helped off the ground.
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It’s a tragic development for Olakau’atu given he was playing in his return game after missing four games with the same injury.
“This is drama. He is in immense pain. He had the shoulder injury from Round 15,” Andrew Voss said on Fox League.
Sideline reporter Matt Russell was quick to report that Olakau’atu suffered another shoulder dislocation.
“Gee that’s shocking to see. Confirmation it was his right shoulder that kept him out and it’s the same shoulder this time,” Greg Alexander said in commentary.
“That means that shoulder is going to need surgery.”
If Olakau’atu does go under the knife, his season is likely over.
Olakau’atu is the second high profile player to suffer such an injury this weekend after Storm half Jahrome Hughes on Thursday night.
Hughes won’t require surgery and is expected back in time for finals.
