HAAS WOE FOR BRONCOS

THE Broncos have suffered a major blow with star prop Payne Haas set to be ruled out of Thursday night’s crucial away clash against Souths Sydney.

Brisbane’s quest for a third successive victory has been jolted by the reality Haas is facing an uphill battle to recover in time from a gradeone shoulder injury he first suffered two weeks ago against the Bulldogs.

It is understood Haas is at long odds to be named in the Broncos’ starting side, with Brisbane coach Kevin Walters leaning towards giving the NSW Origin enforcer at least a week off in the hope his minor AC joint problem heals before the club’s Magic Round clash against Manly in round 10.

Brisbane’s No.1 prop aggravated his damaged AC joint in the Broncos’ impressive 16-7 defeat of the Sharks last Thursday night.