Cowboys may put Scott comeback on ice

MATT Scott’s surprise return from a season-long knee injury will probably be put on hold after Coen Hess was cleared to play in North Queensland’s preliminary final against the Sydney Roosters.

Scott hasn’t played since he underwent a knee reconstruction in March after damaging his anterior cruciate ligament in Round 2. But he was a shock inclusion in the Cowboys’ 21man squad named on Tuesday for tomorrow night’s clash.

Coach Paul Green was adamant the Queensland and Australian Test prop would only run out at Allianz Stadium if the Cowboys suffered in- juries to their forward pack during the week.

But with the club now expecting both Hess (knee) and John Asiata (broken hand) to play, Scott’s return appears most unlikely.

“I don’t think there is any doubt with Hessy,” assistant coach Todd Payten said. “I saw him run without strapping earlier in the week and training yesterday.”

Scott travelled with the battered and bruised Cowboys from Townsville to Sydney on Thursday, after they received another rousing farewell from their fans at the airport.

His inclusion in the 17-man team would represent a significant boost in experience for the Cowboys, given his standing as one of the most consistent front-rowers in the game.

He would likely only play less than 30 minutes off the bench given his current match fitness.

But Payten stressed his impact wouldn’t be worth the risk unless it was absolutely necessary due to injuries because of the risk of re-injury.