Bulldogs star cleared for Las Vegas opener against Dragons
Bulldogs five-eighth Matt Burton will fly to Las Vegas for the season opener after recovering from a hamstring tear, while prop Leo Thompson hopes to lock in his place in the traveling squad after having a scan on his calf first thing on Tuesday.
Canterbury head of football Phil Gould has confirmed via social media that Burton will feature against St George Illawarra at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday week if fit, but the club have the option of being extra cautious with the five-eighths given their bye in the second round.
Matt Burton in action against Newcastle.Credit: AAPIMAGE
Burton’s potential replacement Sean O’Sullivan said he was ready to partner Lachie Galvin in the halves but backed Burton to be 100 per cent.
Burton was immediately taken off the field during Saturday night’s trial against Newcastle when he felt something in his left hamstring after handling the ball. He came to the sideline, had to tackle Knights winger Dominic Young, then disappeared down the tunnel.
But Gould broke the good news about Burton to his followers on
“There’s no need to take risks in the first round. There’s no need to take big risks when you have depth in your squad. But if Matt Burton qualifies to play, he’ll be one of our five-eighths.”
Recruit Thompson felt a calf strain while in camp with the Maori All Stars and was due to return to Sydney late on Monday.
Gould said Thompson will be screened first thing Tuesday. “At this stage this is thought to be precautionary but still necessary,” he wrote.
Ciraldo confirmed after the thumping test win against Newcastle that O’Sullivan, who arrived from the Dolphins during the summer, would come on immediately if Burton needed more time.
