Wolves lose Duarte and midfielder Ryan to serious injuries mid-championship
Nico Duarte suffered five facial fractures when a Lions FC defender headed him during a challenge the referee did not penalize.
Wollongong Wolves striker Nico Duarte is unlikely to play again this championship season after scans confirmed five facial fractures to his cheekbone. Nico Duarte suffered the injury during the Wolves' 3-1 loss to Lions FC on Saturday when a defender headed him in the face as both contested the ball.
Wolves coach Luke Wilkshire said the challenge was reckless and could have been avoided, and criticised the referee for taking no action. Duarte, who is keen to return, will meet a surgeon this week to decide on surgery and recovery time.
The Wolves are now without two key players, as midfielder Dylan Ryan was ruled out for up to six months after an ankle injury in round one.
- 5 facial and cheekbone fractures
- Duarte fractures
- 3 group stage games, possibly 2 finals
- Games remaining
- Wolves lost 3-1 to Lions FC
- Match result
- Macedonia Park
- Venue
Why it mattersThe Wolves have just three group games left and need every player for finals. Losing two quality players mid-campaign significantly hurts their title hopes.
AustraliaWollongong Wolves' chances in the Australian Championship have been damaged by the loss of two senior players in the space of weeks.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
