Toronto Wolfpack players take their lumps in physically demanding rugby league
TORONTO — Gareth O’Brien is not the biggest member of the Wolfpack but the divot missing from the fullback’s forehead is a vivid reminder of his commitment to the Toronto cause.
Surprisingly the welt did not come from last week’s physical encounter in Salford where O’Brien took a beating in a 28-16 loss to the Red Devils. The injury was more friendly fire, it seems.
“No, that’s from this pitch here,” said O’Brien, pointing to the new artificial turf at Lamport Stadium. “Against London (two games ago).”
The Wolfpack, who host France’s Toulouse on Saturday as their Super League promotion push continues, have put their bodies on the line all season. And rugby league, where gang tackling and high-speed collisions are a norm, can take a toll.