Eels star Bailey Simonsson taken off on stretcher with dislocated ankle following brutal airborne tackle

Bailey Simonsson is likely facing a spell on the sidelines following a serious injury sustained late in the second half of the intense Easter Monday showdown between the Eels and Tigers.

During the match, Simonsson was contesting a high ball with Tigers winger Luke Laulilii when his right ankle twisted painfully as he descended and was tackled. Laulilii did not gain possession of the ball while attempting to bring Simonsson down in mid-air.

Clearly in distress, Simonsson lay on the ground with his foot awkwardly turned. Meanwhile, the Tigers quickly seized the opportunity to grab the ball Simonsson had lost, looking to launch a swift counterattack.

Mitch Moses was quick to ask referee Peter Gough for a review of the incident, highlighting the seriousness of Simonsson’s injury.

Gough responded, stating, “I don’t believe it was deliberate. Just take a moment and let the process unfold,” as he addressed the Eels captain.

The referee was later heard indicating to the Bunker that Simonsson’s injury “looked pretty severe”, while Moses continued to inform him that his teammate “could be out for some time”.

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Simonsson promptly signalled for trainers to bring a stretcher for his exit from the field.

“Parramatta have certainly had their fair share of misfortune at the start of this season,” Mick Ennis remarked on Fox League.

As Simonsson was being loaded onto the stretcher, tensions flared as his teammates confronted Tigers players trying to assist Laulilii, who found himself in a tough spot.

The crowd at Commbank Stadium erupted in boos directed at Laulilii, who remained on the sideline amidst a throng of Parramatta supporters.

Referee Gough then ruled that Laulilii would spend ten minutes in the sin bin.

“Foul play, tackling him in the air poses a significant risk of injury as we can clearly see. He’s heading to the bin,” Gough stated.

Simonsson received a warm round of applause from the crowd as he was wheeled away. He was transported directly to the hospital with a severe dislocated ankle, according to Fox Sports.

Laulilii will be anxiously awaiting further news regarding his actions from Monday evening.