Western Force’s fullback Cameron Shepherd ruled out of Waratahs clash: Rugby News
The Western Force’s full-back, Cameron Shepherd, has been ruled out in his team’s upcoming clash against the Waratahs in the Super Rugby derbies which is to be played on May 7, in Sydney. Shepherd sustained a minor knee injury in their previous game against
the Crusaders.
The 27-year old full-back is expected to miss just one game as nature of the injury is not severe. Furthermore, the Western Force has an automatic bye and the forth-coming clash will provide ample time to Shepherd for recovery. He is likely to be replaced
by Mitch Inman, who has made his comeback into the side after recovering from an elbow dislocation he suffered in round two against the Sharks. Inman is returning to the side after a long absence as he was taken off the squad of the Super Rugby derbies during
the second round due to his injury.
Inman made his comeback in the side last week, but got copped an accidental boot to the head by his own team-mate. The injury was so severe that he got 20 stitches on his head and yet again he is back to prove his worth.
Western Force’s coach, Richard Graham, confirmed the injury of Shepherd and said, "There's the old the cliche you've got to look after yourself, and in this instance we can. We've got the four other teams (to play in the Australian conference) and it's very
important we win all four of those games. There's no doubt everyone loves to play the Tahs. (It's a) good opportunity for us this weekend. We need to go there and win. If we do that we'll look after ourselves as our season progresses."
Graham further added about Inman, "It (Inman's dislocated elbow) was a really nasty injury. But he's worked hard, the medical team have been outstanding in getting him back and he's been ready now for two weeks."
The Western Force have been victorious only three times with four matches left to play. They currently placed fourth in the Australian Conference and 12 points behind the second-placed Waratahs.
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