Gold Coast Titans forwards Keegan Hipgrave and Shannon Boyd have been ruled out for the remainder of the 2019 season.
The Titans really can't seem to catch a break at the moment with their injury toll mounting and their struggling on-field form continuing with only 10 points this season. Both Hipgrave and Boyd join the long-term injury list who will re-join the team in the pre-season.
Hipgrave is under precautionary concussion protocols after being injured against the Broncos in Round 13 whilst Boyd, who injured his shoulder against the Panthers in round 17, will have reconstruction.
Hipgrave made his decision with the guidance of club specialists, who said it was best for his playing future if he took an extended break from the game.
“You can’t be too careful with this sort of thing, we know that,” Hipgrave told the club's website.
“Just being a young player and still studying at university, they said the best decision they could recommend to me was to have this rest and then come back next year fully right to go. I think it is a good decision."
Hipgrave also talked about the long term effects of concussion as well as discussing the actions recommended to him.
“The future repercussions of concussion are still a grey area, and that is why they are being so cautious and careful in dealing with it. It is better to be safe than sorry.
“The club has gone to every extent to talk to different specialists to find out what the best course of action for me it, and I’m happy with the plan put forward.
“It is weird. I feel fine, and feel like I can do all the training and I’m right to play. But right now I have to wait and get things sorted, and then get on with things again next year.”
With the Bulldogs winning on the weekend the Titans will need a miracle to escape the bottom as they continue to fight for their first win since early June.