'˜Lo blow' for Sheffield Eagles

The PNG international was forced to leave the field during the defeat to Batley with a dislocated shoulder, and is due to meet a specialist. Eagles director of rugby Mark Aston confirmed that the best case scenario for the 22-year-old would be at least six weeks on the sidelines, but today’s consultation could mean a lengthy lay-off for the close season signing.

“We are hoping that he is not as bad as first feared and his recovery will be quicker than we initially thought, but without an operation it will still be a couple of months” said Aston.

Lo had to be patient for his chance after being left out for the first two rounds against Workington and Halifax.

At Mount Pleasant, he recorded a try on debut against Batley before injury struck.

Whilst being without Lo is a blow to Aston, the Eagles supremo is remaining positive ahead of Sunday’s clash with big spending Leigh Centurions.

Aston has pointed to the potential opportunities for other players with youngster Ryan Millar waiting in the wings.

Close season signing Elliot Minchella is also itching for a return, with Aston confirming that he must consider changes after what he described as an under-par display against Swinton last Friday.

“Lo is going to be here three years so we have time to work with him, and we have other players chomping at the bit to get involved,” he added. “We have Millar in the ranks and he hasn’t played yet.

“He is one of the only guys who we haven’t seen this season, he is electric and we know he can score tries.”

Aston added: “Some of the guys who were involved at Swinton will be looking over their shoulder because I don’t care who you are, if you are not performing then someone else will get an opportunity.”

Eagles climbed to second in the table after the completion of round four of the Kingstone Press Championship, but face a stern test against favourites Leigh on Sunday.