JUST IN: Parramatta Eels centre Zac Lomax has been omitted from the Eels squad for the September 7th encounter with the Newcastle Knights at CommBank Stadium amid shoulder injury in their recent training
The Parramatta Eels have been dealt a major setback ahead of their crucial September 7th showdown against the Newcastle Knights at CommBank Stadium, with star centre Zac Lomax officially ruled out of the squad. The news comes after Lomax sustained a shoulder injury during a recent training session, leaving the Eels with a significant hole to fill in their backline.
Lomax, who has been a standout performer for the Eels since joining the club earlier this season, was expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming clash. His absence will not only affect the team’s attacking structure but also its defensive stability, as he has been one of the Eels’ most reliable centres throughout the year.
Head coach Brad Arthur expressed disappointment over losing Lomax at such a crucial stage of the campaign but remained optimistic that his squad has the depth and resilience to cope. “Zac has been tremendous for us all season,” Arthur said. “Unfortunately, injuries are part of the game, and while it’s tough to lose him, it gives an opportunity for another player to step up and prove themselves.”
The Eels are currently fighting to secure a stronger position on the NRL ladder, and the match against the Knights is seen as a decisive encounter. The absence of Lomax adds pressure to the likes of Dylan Brown, Clint Gutherson, and Maika Sivo to shoulder more responsibility in both attack and defence. Fans will be keen to see how Arthur reshuffles his backline to compensate for the loss.
Zac Lomax’s injury comes at an unfortunate time, as the Eels had been building momentum heading into the final rounds of the regular season. With his exceptional kicking ability, powerful running game, and defensive awareness, Lomax has been integral to the team’s style of play. His absence could force the Eels to adjust their attacking strategies, particularly in set plays where he often provides a dangerous edge.
On the other side, the Newcastle Knights will see this development as an advantage as they prepare to face an Eels outfit missing one of its biggest weapons. The Knights themselves have been pushing for consistency and will be motivated to capitalize on any weaknesses in the Parramatta lineup.
Supporters have taken to social media to express their concern and send well wishes to Lomax, many highlighting the vital role he has played since his arrival. Some fans remain hopeful that the Eels’ depth will be enough to carry them through what promises to be a hard-fought battle against Newcastle.
While the extent of Lomax’s injury has not yet been fully disclosed, early reports suggest he may face a short recovery period depending on medical assessments in the coming days. For now, however, Parramatta will need to focus on regrouping and ensuring they can deliver a strong performance without him.
As September 7th approaches, all eyes will be on CommBank Stadium to see whether the Eels can overcome the absence of Zac Lomax and secure a vital victory in their push for finals contention.
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