NRL Round 1: Bulldogs Concerned Josh Addo-Carr Suffered Possible Injury in Defeat to Eels, Dragons Impress in Victory against Titans
Canterbury are concerned about Josh Addo-Carr potentially sustaining a shoulder injury, with fears of a possible break after he was seen in a sling during the Bulldogs’ 26-8 defeat to Parramatta.
Despite Eels’ No.7 Mitch Moses battling a groin injury, it was the Bulldogs who endured the most pain in front of a crowd of 29,171 at Western Sydney Stadium.
In a tough start to the season for the Bulldogs, Addo-Carr exited the field at halftime and didn’t return, raising concerns about his right acromioclavicular joint.
“He’s not in good shape,” stated Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo. “He’s undergoing scans tonight. There could be a fracture in his shoulder. It was commendable for him to tough it out until halftime. We’ve prepared for all scenarios with players shifting positions. We have many versatile players.”
In another setback, Viliame Kikau faced an on-report citation for dangerous contact on Parramatta’s Dylan Brown, though it’s improbable he’ll face suspension.
The Bulldogs found themselves largely on the back foot throughout the game, with Parramatta dominating possession and territory, controlling the ball for 60% of the match and frequently pressing within the Bulldogs’ defensive 20-metre zone.
While Addo-Carr’s prognosis looks bleak, there’s more optimism for his NSW State of Origin teammate Moses, who sustained a groin injury early in the game but managed to continue playing with strapping and medication.
“The thought crossed my mind [to substitute him], but the players assured me he was fine,” explained coach Brad Arthur. “Mitch insisted he could continue and see it through. I wasn’t entirely satisfied with his kicking towards the end, but he felt it was necessary to secure the win.”
Despite Moses’s injury, the Eels’ dominant display highlighted the Bulldogs’ defensive struggles and inability to match Parramatta’s attacking prowess and forward strength.
