HAMILTON could have Liam Bowden back on deck for the semi-finals after it was initially feared the breakaway had suffered a spinal injury.
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Bowden, who has been a revelation since joining the Hawks from Singleton this season, was carried off on a stretcher in the second half of the win over Maitland after being hit awkwardly at a ruck.
Play was held up some 10 minutes as medical staff from both clubs took every precaution. He spent the night in hospital but has been cleared of major damage.
"He has damaged the ligaments in his lower back and has been having muscle spasms," Hamilton coach Scott Coelman said. "Hopefully he will be right for the finals. That's the best outcome we could have hoped for There were definitely some concerns about his spine. It is a massive relief."
The Hawks welcome fellow back-rower Tiueti Asi back from suspension for the clash against Lake Macquarie on Saturday. Asi received a one-game ban after receiving two yellow cards against Merewether, making him ineligible for the Anderson Medal. However, Hamilton hope to have that ruling overturned.
"We have asked the board to have a look at the incident for the second yellow card," Coleman said. "We don't believe it was foul play. The Anderson Medal is awarded to the best and fairest and we believe Tiueti has a strong case."
Asi was second in medal voting, three points behind Travis Brooke, when the tally went in camera before last round.
