The Sydney Roosters could be in for a tough challenge next round, with a depleted squad potentially facing reigning premiers Penrith. The club’s injury and suspension woes worsened during their heavy 40-18 defeat to the Brisbane Broncos, with star lock Victor Radley the most notable casualty.
Radley was forced from the field in the first half after copping a heavy knock while attempting a tackle, failing his head injury assessment (HIA). Under the NRL’s strict concussion protocols, he will be unavailable for next week’s clash, adding to the Roosters’ growing list of absentees.
The loss to Brisbane exposed several weaknesses in Trent Robinson’s side, particularly in defense, as the Broncos ran in seven tries to three. With Radley sidelined, along with other key forwards nursing injuries, the Roosters’ depth will be tested against a Penrith outfit that has dominated the competition in recent years.
Further concerns emerged with key players such as Brandon Smith and Lindsay Collins showing signs of fatigue after a bruising contest. The Roosters’ middle forwards struggled to contain Brisbane’s explosive attack, raising questions about how they will handle Penrith’s relentless forward pack led by James Fisher-Harris and Isaah Yeo.
Coach Trent Robinson will likely need to reshuffle his lineup, potentially calling on inexperienced players to fill the void. While the Roosters still boast strike power in James Tedesco and Joseph Suaalii, their ability to match Penrith’s physicality without Radley and other key forwards remains uncertain.
A tough test awaits the Tricolours, who will need to regroup quickly if they hope to avoid back-to-back defeats. Against a well-drilled Penrith side, any lapse in defense or discipline could prove costly.
