Reece Walsh in sad injury development for Brisbane Broncos as NRL finals hopes cop setback
The Broncos superstar showed his determination to play through the injury.
The Broncos have been dealt a brutal blow to their season after Reece Walsh was confirmed to have suffered a hand fracture in his team’s NRL victory over the Cowboys on Saturday. Walsh was instrumental in his team’s come from behind victory as the Broncos piled on the second-half points to defeat the home side 42-18.
Walsh and Kotoni Staggs led the fightback to hand the Broncos a small glimmer of hope they can play finals footy at the end of the season. The club sit 12th on the ladder and will receive two points this weekend as they rest in their bye round.
However, it appears they will have to try to make it without their main attacking threat as Walsh could be facing the rest of the season on the sideline after a metacarpal hand fracture. “Reece has sustained a metacarpal fracture and we will consult a specialist to determine the next steps,” Broncos head of performance David Ballard said.
There are suggestions Walsh suffered the hand fracture when Cowboys back Valentine Holmes sprinted out of the line and tackled the fullback. The fullbacl was seen in pain throughout the game, which many fans have called Walsh out for in recent weeks with the No.1 also appearing to have struggled with his body after State of Origin.
He has copped plenty of criticism, despite appearing to battle through the pain in what appears to be a number of injuries suffered throughout the season. Walsh was again called out for grimacing in pain during the win against the Cowboys as he clutched at his hand.
However, the fullback persevered and managed to put up two try assists, six tackle busts and two line break assists in the 42-18 win. Unfortunately for the Broncos, Walsh will most likely not be lining-up for the next game as he looks to recover from the injury.
NRL Physio Brien Seeney suggested the usual return time can be either three or four weeks if everything goes to plan. The Broncos only have three more games left in the season after the bye. They have a slim hope of making finals footy if they win their remaining three games and other results if their way. Walsh’s best chance of playing NRL footy again this year could be if his club make the finals.
Reece Walsh suffered a metacarpal (hand) fracture in Round 23 – will consult with a specialist to discuss treatment options.
Often surgery performed – stabilises fracture & helps to accelerate early rehab. If so usual return to play time of 3-4 weeks.
