“Unbelievable”: Andrew Johns Amazed as Dolphins Hooker Kurt Donoghoe Makes Comeback Following Nose Injury

On Thursday night, Andrew Johns and much of the rugby league community experienced a wince-inducing moment as Dolphins utility Kurt Donoghoe sustained a broken nose.

During the opening exchanges of the round 12 battle against the Bulldogs, the young hooker was involved in a head collision with the opposing halfback.

Play was halted to allow Donoghoe to receive on-field treatment from the trainer, prompting a reaction from Johns in the Nine commentary box.

“There’s been a head clash; just look at Donoghoe – his nose is bent, this could be the end of his night,” stated the rugby league legend.

“That nose isn’t just broken; it’s shattered. There’s no way he can continue, he’s in a bad way.”

“We need to take the decision away from them; they’ll always want to play on. This sport is incredibly tough.”

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After some reluctance, the 23-year-old left the field in discomfort, but in a remarkable turn of events, he passed his head injury assessment and had his nose treated to allow his return to play.

“I can’t believe he’s back on,” Johns remarked in disbelief.

Donoghoe wasn’t the only casualty of the early proceedings, as Canterbury five-eighth Matt Burton also encountered head injury assessment protocols.

Initially, there were worries regarding Burton’s jaw, but medical personnel later cleared him for play before an independent doctor intervened.

The visitors were the first to score at Accor Stadium, with winger Jamayne Isaako crossing for a superb try in the corner, which he then converted from the sideline.

Lipoi Hopoi equalised for the Bulldogs at 8-8, but the Dolphins surged ahead again just before half-time, thanks to Jack Bostock finishing a slick backline move.