Injured Manly co-captain Jamie Lyon looks set to be fit for Friday’s NRL semi-final against North Queensland, delivering a huge boost for the reigning premiers ahead of the do-or-die clash.
Lyon suffered a calf strain in last week’s 16-10 qualifying final loss to the Canterbury Bulldogs but Sea Eagles coach Geoff Toovey said the star centre’s recovery was progressing better than expected.
“He had a run today, he’s obviously a bit sore but we’re pretty confident he’ll be OK for tomorrow’s training session and for Friday,” Toovey said after training on Wednesday.
“He’s improving every day and we’re quietly confident he’ll be OK for Friday.
“I think he surprised himself how well it’s recovering.”
The loss of Lyon would be a massive blow for Manly, who have a poor record without the inspirational centre, winning just 33.3 per cent of matches in his absence.
Toovey said even if Lyon hadn’t fully recovered by Friday he would likely still play him given the importance of the Allianz Stadium clash.
“Well it’s a do-or die,” Toovey said.
“It’s not a risk thing. He’s done the damage on it now, he can’t do anymore damage to it.
“So it’s just a matter of whether he can perform at a reasonable level so he can hopefully help us win the match.”
eagleJack
Guest
NF
Roar Guru
A better question would be do Manly fans know how to get on a bus to the game tomorrow it's not that difficult.
Bulldog
Guest
Calf injuries are tricky. They can feel okay and you can run okay but just one wrong move or extra stretch in that area and it will give out. If he plays they are taking a gamble, but probably a worthwhile one given his ability.
Dave
Guest
The Cowboys forwards are more than up to the task of containing the boys from Manly. In the end Manly will once again tire quickly and begin to fade. The lack of fitness they demonstrated against he doggies will not be remedied in 6 days.
ManlyMuzz
Guest
Very good news!! If Jamie plays and is near enough to 100% I think the eagles will be too strong for the Cows even with Bowen and Thurston in form. This game will be won in the forwards with the Manly pack having the edge especially in the back row. Even with Whare and Oldfield in the team I think it'll all come down to how the Cows defence holds up.
George
Guest
Its a toughie this one. It'll be interesting to see if he lasts the whole match.
Mals
Roar Rookie
Good news, I just hope Jamie can last the whole 80 minutes. As soon as he limped off after just 25min last Friday Manly's chances of winning the match nose dived.