Eels vs. Knights: Confusion erupts around Tyson Frizell HIA drama

Ed Chisholm

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Eels vs. Knights: Confusion erupts around Tyson Frizell HIA drama image

Newcastle may have some explaining to do after star forward Tyson Frizell was allowed to return to the field in the first half against Parramatta despite showing clear signs of heavy concussion. 

Frizell got his head caught in the wrong position attempting to tackle Reagan Campbell Gillard early in the first half and immediately bounced out of the collision onto his back.

The Knights backrower was slow to his feet and his balance appeared hindered as he stumbled into teammate Jayden Brayley trying to retreat back to the defensive line.

Play was then stopped to allow Newcastle's trainer to assess Frizell, who stunningly was allowed to stay on the field, making another two tackles before finally being taken into the sheds for a head injury assessment.

The sentiment was that Frizell's afternoon was over given the way he responded to the collision with Campbell-Gillard. 

“Given the way he reacted when he got back to his feet, all the indications were of a concussion. That should be game over, unfortunately, for Tyson Frizell,” Fox League commentator Warren Smith said in the broadcast.

However, to the surprise of many, he was cleared to return to the field minutes later after reportedly passing his HIA.

Given the increased attention placed on head injuries this season, the Knights could be asked to provide a report of the decision to allow Frizell to return.

Ed Chisholm

Ed Chisholm Photo

Ed Chisholm is a content producer for Sporting News Australia.