Adrian Lam offers injury update on Nene Macdonald

Josh McAllister
Nene Macdonald Leigh SWpix

Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix

Leigh coach Adrian Lam has provided an update on centre Nene Macdonald following his absence in their win over Widnes in the Challenge Cup. 

Macdonald, 27, joined the Championship side during the off-season.

He made almost 100 NRL appearances for Sydney Roosters, Gold Coast Titans, St George Illawarra Dragons, North Queensland Cowboys and Cronulla Sharks.

The Papua New Guinea international was a late pull-out in their win over Widnes in the Challenge Cup. 

Nene Macdonald picks up injury

Following the win, Lam Said: “He just had a bit of a pinched nerve. We didn’t want to risk it. It could have made it worse.

“I think he’ll be okay (for next game).”

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Luis Roberts shines

The late injury saw the chance for Luis Roberts to make his debut for his boyhood club.

Roberts played junior rugby for Leigh Miners Rangers, and joined the club for the 2022 season from Swinton.

The former Salford youngster was also named the man of the match following their 38-4 victory.

“I thought Luis Roberts making his debut on that left centre there; he’s a Leigh lad and he was outstanding.

“I watched him a couple of times play for Swinton last year. I thought it would be great to get him here and I thought he was really strong tonight.”

Lam revealed that Roberts was only brought in 10 minutes before warm up.

“He was briefed,” Lam said.

“I told him to prepare like he was playing. We didn’t get the final confirmation until just before the warm up when Nene couldn’t and the pain was setting in, so we made the decision.

“His family were here and I’m really happy for him.” 

READ MORE: Super League the aim for Leigh’s local lad Luis Roberts

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