Scans confirm fractured jaw for No.1 pick Lalor after scratch-match collision

UPDATE

Richmond has confirmed that Sam Lalor has suffered a fractured jaw.

Read the statement below:

Scans have confirmed that Richmond midfielder/forward Sam Lalor has sustained an undisplaced hairline fracture of his jaw following a collision late in yesterday's match simulation.

Lalor will have surgery to aid his recovery, with a timeline of his return to play to be clearer at a later stage. It is still hoped that he will be available for the Round 1 game against Carlton on March 13.

The 18-year-old has also entered the concussion protocols, with the Club having already ruled him out of next Wednesday's Charity Shield clash against Collingwood.

Richmond will monitor Lalor closely over the coming period and provide a further update on his recovery when available.

EARLIER

Richmond’s Sam Lalor has suffered a fractured jaw following a collision in Monday’s scratch match against West Coast in Perth, reports SEN’s Sam Edmund.

The incident occurred during the third quarter of the clash at Mineral Resources Park as the No.1 pick was shoved by West Coast’s Reuben Ginbey into oncoming traffic during a marking contest.

While the club confirmed that Lalor suffered a concussion as a result of the blow, Edmund has now received confirmation that scans have found a fracture or crack in his jaw.

“I’ve just had confirmation, and this is terrible, Sam Lalor does have a fracture or a crack in his jaw,” Edmund said on SEN Afternoons.

“Clearly, he’s going to be sidelined for several weeks now, certainly beyond the concussion protocols.”

It’s disappointing news for the teenager who was the shining light for the Tigers in the defeat, kicking two goals from five shots at goal while spending time in the midfield and up forward.

Richmond play in an AAMI Community Series clash against Collingwood at Ikon Park next Wednesday before they gear up for a Round 1 fixture against Carlton at the MCG on March 13.