PAYNE ALMOST OVER FOR BRONCOS SENSATION
TROUBLED forward Payne Haas travelled to Sydney with the Broncos last night in the strongest sign yet Brisbane coach Anthony Seibold is ready to unleash the controversial prop.
Haas’ four-match suspension for failing to comply with an NRL Integrity Unit investigation over two off-field incidents will end after Brisbane’s blockbuster against the Roosters tonight at the SCG.
Seibold is keen to reintegrate the Keebra Park State High product with a Brisbane squad that has endured a turbulent build-up for the clash with the premiers after strike centre James Roberts was ruled out with an achilles injury.
Brisbane’s backline appeared to take a further hit yesterday when star winger Corey Oates failed to appear at their captain’s run.
It is understood Oates’ partner gave birth to their first child, a baby girl named Montana, on Tuesday night.
The Queensland Origin winger did not fly with his Brisbane teammates yesterday afternoon, but is expected to join the squad for the Broncos’ SCG debut.
While Haas will be in Sydney as a spectator only, his mere presence in the dressing room is evidence Seibold cannot wait to expose the 118kg forward to his new regime.
Despite having played just three NRL games, Haas is Brisbane’s biggest player and Seibold is banking on his interchange bulk to inspire the Broncos’ midfield for their Round 5 clash against the Wests Tigers next Thursday night.
Haas’ impending return to the NRL would be a welcome ray of sunshine for the rookie following a horror pre-season which involved court appearances for unlicensed driving and his mother being charged with assault following a junior rugby league brawl last September.
“Payne hasn’t been able to play because of his suspension so he will be in the mix (for the Tigers clash), no doubt about that. What he has produced at training has been top end,” Seibold said.