Warrington Wolves Suffer Devastating Injury Blow as Rising Star Leon Hayes Stretchered Off
Warrington, [Current Date] – Warrington Wolves have been dealt a significant setback as their young playmaker Leon Hayes was forced to leave the field on a stretcher during their defeat against the Salford Red Devils. The 20-year-old has been a revelation for the Wolves this season, stepping up to fill the void left by the injured George Williams and forming a formidable partnership with England captain Williams.
Hayes, who made his Warrington debut towards the end of the 2022 season before impressing during a loan spell with North Wales Crusaders in 2023, has firmly established himself in the Wolves’ starting lineup this year. However, his promising campaign now looks set to be cut short following the worrying injury sustained in the match against Salford.
The incident occurred just before the hour mark, as Warrington were making progress in the match. As Hayes took the ball into contact, a collective hush fell over the stadium as it became clear he had suffered a serious ankle injury. The medical team quickly attended to the youngster, and footage showed his ankle being strapped and oxygen being administered before he was stretchered off the field.
Commentator Barrie McDermott, who has experienced a similar injury, noted that the damage appeared to be to the ankle, bone, and lower leg. The severity of the injury was such that the broadcasters, Sky Sports, chose not to show the footage of the incident again, instead focusing on highlights of the game during the lengthy stoppage.
As Hayes was carried off the field, the Warrington crowd chanted “There’s only one Leon Hayes,” with the young player clapping along in a positive sign. The incident was reminiscent of the recent injury suffered by Wigan Warriors’ Willie Isa, who also had to be stretchered off the field due to an ankle fracture.
Despite the distressing injury, Warrington went on to lose the match 17-12 after a penalty try was awarded against them. However, the well-being of Leon Hayes is undoubtedly the primary concern for the club and its supporters at this time, with all hoping for a swift and full recovery for the promising young talent.
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