Orange Waratahs dealt blow as Brackenridge breaks collarbone

The previously undefeated sky blues were outmatched by this year's surprise squad, the Orana Spurs during a 4-2 defeat in Dubbo.

And while the two sides may very well meet again come finals time, it was a play this past weekend that could prove pivotal for Waratahs.

Scimone's side have been known for their ability to rack up the goals this year, but their defence has come along in leaps and bounds.

That may very well change with goalkeeper Adam Brackenridge expected to miss at least the rest of the regular season.

"Bracko did really well and then he came out for a loose ball and he got smashed," Scimone said of the Spurs match.

"He ended up breaking his collar bone, he played on for the rest of the game in agony but they scored just before halt time.

"Bracko's arm was pretty stuffed."

Scimone knows it will be a bit of a challenge to find someone to replace Brackenridge while he is on the mend.

"They can't do much for the collarbone," he added.

"He said he's going to try and be back for the first week of the finals. So we've got to look for an interim keeper in the meanwhile."

Also on the injured list from the weekend is Guy Burgess who dislocated his shoulder. His timeline for return is unknown.

"It was a pretty difficult away game for injuries," Scimone added.

"But that's football and that's why we've got the depth of the squad."

Waratahs will have the bye this week.

"It's disappointing that we lost but also positive that it's taken this long for someone to knock us off. We're back to the drawing board," Scimone said.

"Bulls drew 4-4 with Mudgee so anything can happen. We're still two points clear and it's about how you respond and keep pushing on. There are going to be interesting times ahead."

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