Cartwright rules out Campbell comeback - Sports News - Fanatics - the world's biggest events

Cartwright rules out Campbell comeback

By Laine Clark 10/09/2010 03:09:10 PM Comments (0)

It pays not to underestimate diminutive Gold Coast fullback Preston Campbell.

But Gold Coast Titans coach John Cartwright on Friday quickly hosed down talk of the veteran No.1 pulling off yet another surprise in their NRL finals clash with New Zealand Warriors.

Cartwright drew a line through Campbell's name ahead of Friday night's Skilled Park showdown after the livewire fullback tested his troublesome hamstring in a searching fitness session on Thursday.

Campbell, 33, was reportedly backing himself to play, claiming he would wait until Friday morning before determining his availability.

Campbell has made a habit of overcoming the odds - guiding his pint-sized frame through a glittering 12-year NRL career is a testament to that.

However, Cartwright said that Campbell would be a no show in front of what was expected to be a packed Skilled Park.

William Zillman will again slot in for Campbell at fullback with Jordan Atkins filling the wing vacancy, setting up a showdown with Manu "The Beast" Vatuvei.

And Cartwright has also given the green light to their other injury concerns which reads like a club who's who - Luke Bailey (thumb), Scott Prince (shoulder), Brad Meyers (rib), Steve Michaels (shoulder), Ash Harrison (broken nose) and Mat Rogers (hip).

There had been major concerns for Bailey who recently underwent surgery to repair his shattered left thumb.

The Warriors have welcomed back hard-tackling lock Micheal Luck, who missed their last two wins due to a nasty leg gash.

Kiwi Test centre Jerome Ropati (groin) is expected to play for the Warriors, although officially Joel Moon is on standby.

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