Tallis out of Eels clash
by Chris Cox
Tuesday June 15, 2004

Broncos captain, Gorden Tallis, has been diagnosed with bruising of the spinal column and has been ruled out for the next two games, including Saturday night's clash with Parramatta at Parramatta Stadium.  Tallis, who was injured two weeks ago during Brisbane's round 12 win over St George-Illawarra, will have missed a month of football by the time he returns against South Sydney in round 17.

Tallis will be joined on the sideline by centres Brent Tate (shoulder) and Shaun Berrigan (hamstring), both of whom were injured during Brisbane's last round loss to Cronulla.  Stu Kelly moves into the centres to partner Mick De Vere, with Nick Parfitt coming onto the wing.

In better news for the club, hooker Michael Ryan returns to the side after a successful operation on a hand injury.

Tom Learoyd has been chosen for his second NRL appearance after making his debut against the Eels in round 2.

Darren Lockyer will captain the side in Tallis' absence.

BRISBANE BRONCOS vs PARRAMATTA EELS
VENUE: Parramatta Stadium
DATE: Saturday, June 19
KICK OFF: 7:30PM

TEAM:
1: Karmichael Hunt
2: Nick Parfitt
3: Stu Kelly
4: Michael DeVere
5: Craig Frawley
6: Darren Lockyer (c)
7: Casey McGuire
8: Shane Webcke
9: Michael Ryan
10: Petero Civoniceva
11: Corey Parker
12: Dane Carlaw
13: Tonie Carroll

INTERCHANGE:
14: Darren Mapp
15: Brad Meyers
16: Neville Costigan
17: Tom Learoyd

COACH: Wayne Bennett