The Knights have suffered a worrying injury concern early in the NRLW season after Yasmin Meakes left the field with a knee problem during her side’s 38-0 win over the Dragons.
In the 28th minute, Meakes left the field with assistance from medical staff after pulling out of a tackle suddenly.
Yasmin Meakes is helped from the field. Getty
Earlier the Origin star was down on the ground clutching at her left knee after she was brought down by three defenders.
“It takes so many to take her down the ground, she fights for every inch,” Ruan Sims said on Nine’s coverage.
Meakes had been tackled with opposite number Ella Koster behind her while the other two defenders went high from in front.
The second-rower eventually rose to her feet and played the ball as play continued.
However, three sets later Meakes attempted a tackle on Koster, who palmed her off.
Meakes immediately went down with the medical staff running over to her straight away.
“This is bad signs for the Knights,” Sims said.
Allana Ferguson added: “I don’t like the look of this.”
Meakes was then helped from the field and officially taken out of the game.
“They lose a lot with Meakes off the field,” Ferguson said.
“First of all, her leadership, she gets through a tonne of work … fingers crossed it’s not as bad as it looks.”
Post-match, Meakes managed to walk into her press conference and was asked if the issue was from contact or twisting.
Yasmin Meakes in the press conference. NRL
“You know what, it could be a little bit of old age … I actually have no idea,” the 32-year-old smiled.
“It’s a little bit sore. I’ll go for scans tomorrow and make a plan from there, I’ve got no idea what’s wrong with it but it’s a little bit tender.”
At the time of Meakes’ injury, the Knights were leading 12-0 after she scored a try herself.
Her departure didn’t hurt Newcastle’s dominance in the match, finishing with the side’s biggest win in history.
Victory puts the Knights back in the winner’s circle after a 12-0 loss to the Roosters last round.