The Wests Tigers have been dealt a double injury blow after Jarome Luai and Adam Doueihi limped off during their defeat to South Sydney Rabbitohs.
The Tigers went down 20-16 at the Central Coast Stadium as their winning start was ended with a disappointing display against the Rabbitohs – who bounced back from their defeat to the Roosters last time out.
And to add insult to injury for Tigers fans, they are left with concerns over two key players following the premature exits of Luai and Doueihi.
Luai, 29, was the first to leave the field in the 65th minute when an awkward tackle saw him go down screaming in pain.
He limped down the tunnel with what appeared to be a knee injury.
Then, in the final stages of the game, Doueihi also departed in discomfort holding his hamstring.
It was the final act on a dismal night for the travelling Tigers — who face unbeaten table-toppers the New Zealand Warriors on Friday.
The fresh injury crisis comes after it was revealed earlier this week that centre Taylan May could be sidelined until Round 8 with a shoulder problem.
And coach Benji Marshall offered some concerning words during his post-match press conference when asked about Luai.
He said: “It doesn’t look good. He’s going to get scans obviously, but the medical staff said he’ll be out for a little bit… maybe four weeks.
“It’s not an ACL.”
On Doueihi, Marshall added: “Adam’s got some tightness in his hamstring. He’s had a pretty big week, and the load he’s had to carry at seven is different to what he’s done in the past.
“He’ll get a scan, but hopefully that’s not too bad either.”
And Tigers supporters were quick to vent their frustration on social media following the latest setbacks.
Tyra said: “Surely Luai and Doueihi are out next week.”
While Princess Hann added: “Warriors in NZ with no May, Star, Doueihi or Luai. Should just forfeit now.”
Tigers96 reacted: “Would rather lose and keep both Doueihi and Luai fit than win and see them both get injured. Instead we had the worst possible outcome.
“Things looking grim. Hope the injuries aren’t too bad.”
And Doomz replied: “Ah well, a lot closer than I thought it would be.
“Season over, though. No AD and Luai for an extended period of time. Be tough to finish outside bottom 4.”
Originally published as Tigers’ ‘season over’ with double injury blow on nightmare night
