McDermott: Rhinos trio major doubts to face Cowboys

Omnisports 08:11 - 14 February 2016

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Tom Briscoe, Ashton Golding and Carl Ablett are all major doubts for the World Club Challenge, says Leeds Rhinos boss Brian McDermott.

Brian McDermott expects Leeds Rhinos to be without Tom Briscoe, Ashton Golding and Carl Ablett for next weekend's World Club Challenge.

The defending Super League champions saw all three men limp out of their 56-12 hammering at the hands of Widnes Vikings on Sunday with ankle injuries.

While the extent of their injuries has yet to be assessed McDermott – who is already without captain Danny McGuire – does not expect any of the trio to be fit to face North Queensland Cowboys.

"We weren't great," a frustrated McDermott said. "The most disappointing things are how we played and the injuries.

"I'm not sure at the extent of either one of them but they're very doubtful for next week all three."

And McDermott is not anticipating having Jamie Jones-Buchanan, Stevie Ward or Beau Falloon back for the clash at Headingley either.

He added: "Jamie Jones is close but it would be silly to rush him back.

"We will have a look at Beau Falloon, but he was going to be in a boot for another 10 days at least so if we do play him it would be a risk. Stevie Ward is nowhere near."