The Canberra Raiders have been bolstered by the news that both Josh Hodgson and Blake Austin are fit to play in the Green Machine’s must-win clash against the Penrith Panthers.
Hodgson was considered next to no chance of making the semi-final team after sustaining ligament damage and bone bruising to his left ankle during Canberra’s 16-14 loss to the Cronulla Sharks.
However, the influential hooker has been given the go-ahead to suit up on Saturday night against the Panthers after completing the side’s captain’s run on Friday morning (AEST).
“I am a bit surprised, but at the same time excited. The physios have been fantastic and sorted me out straight away once it happened,” Hodgson said.
“I spent three full days in the physio room getting the bruising and swelling sorted out. I’m really grateful and looking forward to the game tomorrow.”
With Canberra set for a second home final is as many weeks, the Englishman said he’s looking forward to lapping up the atmosphere and hopefully guiding the Raiders to a win.
“These are the games you want to play. This is why you play rugby league, to play on the big stage in the big games. It’s going to be tough but we are aiming to make it a lot tougher for them.”
Austin had always been billed as the likelier of the two to be included in the side. The five-eighth broke his hand during a mid-week training session in late August, initially leaving the Raiders with serious doubts about whether he’d be able to play a part in the side’s finals campaign.
But, after watching on as Canberra failed to put away the Sharks last weekend, the star playmaker will now be looking to guide his side into a preliminary final against the Melbourne Storm.
“To get out in front of a full GIO stadium is exciting. I can’t wait to get out there and do my part for the team and hopefully we can get the win,” Austin said. “We are all pretty excited and like our chances. If we stick at what we need to do we are going to be well and truly in the game.”
Canberra’s semi-final against Penrith kicks off at 7:40pm (AEST) on Saturday, and you’ll be able to follow all of the action with score updates, our live blog and match highlights right here at The Roar.
up in the north
Roar Rookie
Have to agree there, even with half mobility you'd play him. I said earlier in the week that the bloke must be made of rubber to even be walking let alone start in a sudden death final. Legend.
Jara W
Guest
How goods this! Promising to be a spectacle. Any footage of the captains run though? Any chance it's a bluff? The bloke was carried from the field less than a week ago. Irrespective he's going to have to be so strapped up he has zero movement in the ankle joint. So he won't be the same player, but still probably a more than worthy inclusion.
Penrith Punter
Roar Guru
Will end 19-18 in Golden Point. Who wins... anyone's guess.
Agent11
Guest
wow... good news but hope he doesnt do any serious damage
Branko
Guest
That's Sir Josh to you....