Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has spoken of Connor Watson’s disappointment at missing out on the grand final after a failed bid to have a concussion stand-down dismissed.
Watson was concussed during the preliminary final against the Dolphins, with was designated as a category one HIA by the independent doctor which meant he was subject to the 11-day stand-down policy.
Connor Watson as Roosters training. Getty Images
Robinson said the team found out at training on Friday and Watson had to control his emotions in the middle of a training session.
“Connor’s a good man, a strong man, he’s his own man, so he had to control all that … the absolute devastation that it is for him and all the work that’s gone into his football career for his family and friends and then you get the news like that, it’s quite tough,” he told media.
“He spoke to the group quite clearly that this is about the group and he passed that on.. and the player that took his spot, Benaiah Ioelu, spoke about the love for Connor and what it means for his role coming into the team.
“That’s what teams are about.”
Robinson was unsure where Watson will watch the game.
The Roosters coach was also asked about whether a bye before the grand final should be implemented to ensure a player doesn’t miss out due to the protocol.
“I think these are unfortunate things that happen but we have protocols for a reason,” he said.
“I’m more for we have a week off before the finals than I am before the grand final. I feel like momentum is built throughout the finals series and the attrition is a part of our game, so I understand that.”
As for Watson’s overall reaction, Robinson said there was “a lot of pain” for him but described his Origin star as someone who displays stoicism.
“He knows who he is, what he’s done, his role in this team and what he wants from this team,” he said.
“Someone as stoic as Connor is going to hold that emotion, give positive energy to the crew and move on and that’s exactly what he did.”