There was at least one consolation for Leeds Rhinos after their defeat to Catalans Dragons, and a big one at that.
The game was overshadowed by a serious looking injury to Alex Mellor, who was stretchered from the field and taken to hospital after suffering a suspected neck injury in the opening minutes of the 10-4 defeat.
Coach Richard Agar confirmed after the game that the player had gone to hospital as a result of the matter for precautionary checks.
Thankfully, Rugby League Live has learned that Mellor has been given the all clear after check ups at hospital, with scans showing there is no break or major injury.
It will come as a huge relief not only to Mellor, but practically everyone within the game.
Leeds have issued a statement this morning which said: “We are pleased to confirm that Leeds Rhinos forward Alex Mellor has been cleared of serious injury after pre-cautionary treatment at hospital last night following an injury in Thursday night’s clash with Catalans Dragons.
“Mellor was injured inside the opening ten minutes of the game at Headingley with the game delayed for a prolonged period whilst the Rhinos medical team gave immediate treatment on the field.
“Mellor was stretchered from the field and taken to hospital as a pre-caution.
“However, he was allowed to return home after being assessed and has been cleared of serious injury.
“We would like to thank everyone who has been in touch with the club and on social media sending their well wishes to Alex.”
It remains to be seen if Mellor will be available for next Thursday’s trip to Wakefield Trinity but team-mate Jarrod O’Connor told Rugby League Live: “Hopefully Alex is absolutely fine and passed fit for next week’s game at Wakefield.
“We’re short of back-rowers at the minute and we’re going to need him.
“Alex has been killing it in training because he obviously wants to show what he can do. But the most important thing is that he’s okay.”
