Bulldogs centre Bronson Xerri copped an unfortunate blow late in the first half against Manly and was forced to leave the field.

Xerri had engaged Haumole Olakau’atu on the Manly forward’s run and was caught tackling him after an offload. Viliame Kikau then tackled Lehi Hopoate who was supporting with his legs swinging around. The right boot first grazed Xerri then the left boot hit him right in the face.

The Dogs centre went down straight away.

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“Friendly fire from Kikau … he hasn’t moved,” Billy Slater said on Nine.

Bronson Xerri cops a boot to the face.  Nine

Xerri left the field with blood coming from his nose and was ruled a category two concussion during the HIA.

The absence of Xerri led to a try for Manly winger Jason Saab right before half time.

That made the score 12-4 after earlier four-pointers too Samuel Hughes and Jacob Kiraz.

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Xerri was heavily involved in the first half with one of his runs leading to Toafofoa Sipley being put on report for a trip.

When the second half started, Xerri returned after passing his HIA.