Jaydn Su'a's season is likely over after North Queensland utility Karl Lawton was charged over a hip-drop tackle that injured the St George Illawarra star's knee.
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See subscription optionsSu'a limped from the field in the Dragons' 38-32 loss to the Cowboys on Friday night, after being hit around the legs by Lawton in a second-half tackle.
It's understood the former Queensland State of Origin forward has suffered medial ligament damage, ruling him out for up to six weeks.
It means the only way he would be likely to play again this season is if the Dragons went undefeated through the next month to make an unlikely finals charge.
Lawton was hit with a grade-two dangerous contact charge on Saturday morning, resulting in a two-match ban with an early guilty plea.
If Lawton fights the charge and loses he will face three matches on the sidelines. North Queensland are also in need of a miracle to make finals.
It's the second time Lawton has faced a two-game ban for dangerous contact in the space of five weeks.
The Cowboy was last month handed one of the most serious charges of the season for a cannonball tackle on Sydney Roosters youngster Siua Wong.
Wong also tore his medial ligament in that tackle and only made his return against Melbourne on Thursday night.
Meanwhile, fellow North Queensland forward Coen Hess can accept an $1800 fine for a high tackle on returning Dragon Mat Feagai.
And Brisbane second-rower Brendan Piakura has avoided a ban for his high shot on Zac Lomax in the Broncos' 22-20 loss to Parramatta, with Piakura able to take a $1800 fine.
Australian Associated Press
