Roosters equipped for injury crisis: Manu

Jasper Bruce | July 16, 2022

Sydney Roosters utility Joesph Manu says adversity experienced in 2021 has equipped his side to deal with a fresh spate of injuries suffered during a big win over St George Illawarra.

The season is over for centre Billy Smith and second-rower Sitili Tupouniua after they suffered suspected serious knee injuries while prop Siosiua Taukeiaho is looking at time on the sidelines with a facial fracture.

But Manu, a stand-out performer against the Dragons in the 54-26 win, said a tough run of injuries last season had built resilience in the Roosters’ camp.

In 2021, Roosters veterans Boyd Cordner and Jake Friend retired mid-year following repeated concussions, while Lindsay Collins, Brett Morris, Luke Keary, Joseph Suaalii and Smith were among the regular first-graders to have suffered long-term injuries.

The Roosters nevertheless managed to finish the season fifth on the ladder.

“We’ve had a bit of practice,” Manu said.

“It’s unfortunate how we end up in these positions but I think ‘Robbo’ (coach Trent Robinson) drills into us each week that it doesn’t matter who’s putting on that jersey.”

Captain James Tedesco said the club’s ‘next-man-up’ philosophy would be vital to their hopes of securing a sixth consecutive finals appearance.

“We’ve got some really good depth,” he said.

“Whoever comes in will do a great job for us. It’s part of footy, those serious injuries, so we’ve got to adapt to that.

Manu said mid-season recruit Matthew Lodge had set the perfect example for the Roosters.

In his club debut, Lodge ran for 92 metres and laid the platform for the Roosters’ second-half surge through the middle.

“He did his job,” Manu said.

“We’re a proud club with a lot of history. When you put on that jersey, you trust those guys who are next to you, whoever comes up.”