Warriors win marred by star’s brutal knockout

Warriors hooker Wayde Egan has been knocked out in a brutal clash with Jason Taumalolo as his side broke a five-year drought against the Cowboys.

Egan’s frightening encounter with the Cowboys star was the only dark spot in a brilliant evening for the Warriors, who ran out 26-12 winners in Townsville, their first victory at the Cowboys’ home since 2018.

The Warriors No.9 enjoyed a terrific outing before being knocked out, scoring his team’s first try of the match.

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However, his night came to end with just over 10 minutes left after attempting to slow down an on-rushing Taumalolo.

The Cowboys star stepped through multiple defenders before Egan stepped up and ducked his head in an attempt to get low for a tackle.

In getting low, Egan ducked straight into the right shoulder of Taumalolo and was sent flying.

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A dazed Egan remained on the turf for several minutes after the hit before being helped off the field by a pair of Warriors trainers, staggering as he walked off.

It was Egan’s second head knock of the match after he was sent for a first half HIA just minutes before the half-time break.

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If the knock is deemed a category one head knock, Egan will face a mandatory 11 days on the sidelines before he plays his next match.

Egan was joined by Jazz Tevaga, Marcelo Montoya (2) and Edward Kosi as the try-scorers in a match to remember for the Warriors, with veteran halfback Shaun Johnson pulling the strings to perfection.

There was an electric start to the match, as both teams exchanged tries in a manic 13-minute stretch.

Tries to Tom Chester and Reece Robson gave the Cowboys an early 12-6 lead, but the home side would not score another point for the remainder of the contest.

The Warriors will return home to New Zealand to host the Bulldogs in round four, while the Cowboys will host the Titans in Townsville.

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