Simpson under cloud for Storm showdown
Sydney Morning Herald
Saturday August 15, 2009
NEWCASTLE enforcer Steve Simpson is in doubt for Monday night's crucial clash with Melbourne at EnergyAustralia Stadium as he battles the lingering after-effects of concussion.Simpson was still nursing a mild headache yesterday and is yet to receive a medical clearance to play Melbourne after being knocked senseless and suffering a broken nose in a head clash against Parramatta last weekend.The former Test forward has spent the past two days resting, and hopes to join in today's ball-work session. But he still needs to complete a CogSport concussion test and convince Knights doctor Neil Halpin of his fitness."I've just been trying to clear this head up a bit, so I'll go to training tomorrow and I'll have to do the test either tomorrow or Sunday," Simpson said yesterday."The headaches haven't completely gone, but I'm feeling a bit better today. Hopefully, with another good night's sleep, I'll see how I'm feeling tomorrow and obviously on Sunday."Simpson admitted it was a concern that he had not fully recovered from the knock, and would not take any risks with his health, regardless of the significance of Monday's game."Obviously, it's a really important game, and I'd love to play, but if I'm not 100 per cent, I won't be playing. It's as simple as that," he said. "I spoke to the doctor today, and he said the symptoms have to go away completely, and they haven't at the moment ... Hopefully, I can get across the line but I'm a bit unsure at this point."Losing Simpson would be a big blow for the Knights, who are already at a low ebb after three consecutive losses have resulted in them sliding out of the top eight.If Simpson were ruled out, Cory Paterson would be expected to win a recall. Prop Danny Wicks also needs to prove his fitness after being troubled by a sternum injury for the past two weeks.Meanwhile, the Knights announced yesterday the coaches for their under-age representative teams. Kurt Hancock will take charge of Newcastle's Harold Matthews (under-16) squad, while Phil Williams will continue as coach of the SG Ball under-18s.
© 2009 Sydney Morning Herald