Manly speedster dealt cruel blow after Vegas triumph

Manly speedster Jason Saab looks set for a stint on the sidelines following his side's 36-24 comeback victory over South Sydney in the NRL season opener.

Late in the historic battle in Las Vegas, the 23-year-old limped off after pulling up lame close to the tryline, placing his hands on his head and grabbing his hamstring.

Saab was clearly distressed by the injury and given his elite sprinting ability, it could be a little while before the Sea Eagles flyer is back on the park.

FOLLOW LIVE: Las Vegas NRL round one

AS IT HAPPENED: New Zealand v Australia first Test day four

READ MORE: Crichton shuts down 'circus-like' rumours in new interview

Speaking to the media post-game in Vegas, head coach Anthony Seibold admitted he wasn't hopeful of having Saab on deck in the next round against the Roosters.

"Any time you see one of your real speed men pull up like that, it's not ideal," he said.

"He will get scans when we get back to Australia. We've got a long turnaround. It's probably doubtful that he will play in that Roosters game.

"When you see a player come off with a hamstring, it's never gonna be a five-day or seven-day turnaround … it's gonna be a little bit longer."

Watch the 2024 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now

Saab is among the competition's fastest players and has been a solid performer for the club since arriving from the Dragons.

However, his likely absence could open the door for one of Manly's unheralded outside backs, with Seibold backing the next man up mentality within the squad.

"One thing we feel is that we've added some depth," the coach said.

"We've got Ray Vaega who was probably unlucky, he was fighting really hard with Jaxson Paulo for that left-wing position.

"The other one who I thought was a standout in the pre-season and unlucky not to be in the team was Tommy Talau … he was really good for us and he can play on the wing.

"Fingers crossed Saab is okay, but I'm probably hoping more than knowing."

Manly will have a weekend off before their round two clash with the Tricolours. 

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply