Burton Cleared for Vegas, Thompson in Doubt for Bulldogs’ Season Opener

Canterbury Bulldogs five-eighth Matt Burton is poised to play in the club’s NRL season opener in Las Vegas after scans cleared him of a hamstring tear, while the fitness of prop Leo Thompson remains uncertain.

Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould confirmed via social media on Monday that Burton’s MRI scan revealed no tear, stating, “Awaiting full report, but appears good to go.” Gould added that while there was no reason to take undue risks, Burton would be the team’s five-eighth if fit to play against the St George Illawarra Dragons at Allegiant Stadium on February 23rd.

The news is a significant boost for the Bulldogs, who are already without rising half Mitchell Woods due to injury. Sean O’Sullivan is positioned as the immediate replacement for Burton should he require additional recovery time, a scenario confirmed by Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo after Saturday’s 28-0 trial victory over Newcastle.

Burton sustained the injury during the trial match against the Knights, limping from the field after experiencing discomfort in his left hamstring. He briefly returned to the sideline, making a tackle before leaving the field.

However, concerns remain for new recruit Leo Thompson, who felt tightness in his calf while participating in the Maori All Stars camp. Thompson returned to Sydney on Monday and is scheduled to undergo scans on Tuesday to determine the extent of the injury. Gould described the scans as “precautionary, but essential.”

The Bulldogs are hoping for positive news regarding Thompson, as his potential absence would further deplete their forward pack. The club remains hopeful that the scans will reveal a minor strain, allowing Thompson to be available for selection in Las Vegas.