Manly Sea Eagles have been dealt a devastating blow with the news that star second-rower Haumole Olakau’atu’s season is over after re-dislocating his right shoulder during Sunday’s crushing 42-4 defeat to the Bulldogs.
The back-rower was clearly writhing in pain following a tackle attempt on Bulldogs forward Viliame Kikau early in the second half of Sunday’s intense clash at Allianz Stadium, forcing him off the field for the remainder of the game.
It was the Blues enforcer’s much-anticipated return after initially dislocating the same shoulder six weeks ago in the club’s Round 15 clash against the Gold Coast Titans, and the recurrence marks a devastating setback for both the player and the team.
After missing over a month due to the initial shoulder dislocation, Olakau'atu’s return was viewed as a crucial boost for Manly’s push to break into the top eight with them currently sitting in ninth place.
MORE: Haumole Olakau'atu destined for surgery after devastating shoulder blow
However, the club confirmed on Monday afternoon that the shoulder had been dislocated again and that Olakau'atu will require surgery, ruling him out for the remainder of the season.
Manly coach Anthony Seibold addressed the injury in his post-match press conference, explaining the risks taken to get the dynamic forward back on the field.
"Our medical staff said to Haumole and myself when you dislocate your shoulder the first time there's around a 90% risk that you'll do it again," Seibold stated during his post-game press conference.
"We wanted to take that risk. He had six weeks conditioning and trained fully for the last two weeks. He just got his shoulder in an awkward position.”
Siebold revealed that Olakau’atu will undergo surgery “when appropriate”.
The club also confirmed that the star second-rower won’t be fit for full contact until January, ruling him out not only for any potential finals campaign but also the end-of-year Pacific Championships.