Brisbane is optimistic about Brendan Piakura’s recovery from a concussion in time for their upcoming match against South Sydney. However, coach Kevin Walters has contingency plans in place should Piakura not be available. Piakura sustained the concussion during the early stages of their 20-10 loss to the Sydney Roosters in Las Vegas and was unable to return to the game.
This setback disrupted the Broncos’ game plan, forcing star lock Pat Carrigan to play more minutes on the edge than preferred by Walters. Piakura’s availability for the March 14th fixture against the Rabbitohs at Suncorp Stadium remains uncertain, considering the mandatory 11-day stand-down period for concussion.
Walters expressed hope regarding Piakura’s condition, stating that he seemed well after the game and would undergo the necessary Head Injury Assessment protocols to determine his eligibility to play. Reflecting on the previous match, Walters acknowledged the team’s adaptability in coping with the changes forced by Piakura’s absence but hinted at potential adjustments for future games.
The Broncos have alternative options, with Jaiyden Hunt and Xavier Willison capable of filling the void if Piakura is unavailable. Walters emphasized the need for a strategic reshuffle, considering the team’s performance and the impact of losing a key player to concussion early in the game.
Despite the loss to the Roosters, Walters found positives in the team’s defensive resilience while acknowledging areas for improvement, particularly in reducing errors during critical moments. He remains confident in the team’s ability to bounce back and deliver a stronger performance against South Sydney, especially with the advantage of playing at Suncorp Stadium.
Walters also expressed appreciation for the experience of playing in Las Vegas but emphasized the significance of home-ground advantage, highlighting the unique atmosphere of Suncorp Stadium.
