Hawks forward Cyril Rioli faces an extended period on the sidelines after scans today revealed that a hamstring injury he sustained against Gold Coast on Saturday was more serious than first anticipated.

It was initially expected to be a 3-4 week injury, which Rioli compared to the hamstring strain he suffered in Round 8 against the Swans that saw him miss three matches (in addition to the Club’s Bye Round).  

However, scans have indicated the hamstring strain Rioli sustained yesterday involves the tendon and he is expected to be sidelined for 8-10 weeks.

GM – Football Operations Chris Fagan confirmed Rioli will miss up to two months but will not require surgery.

“Unfortunately scans have indicated that Cyril has sustained a hamstring tendon injury, which is more serious than we first anticipated,” Fagan said.

“He will be out of action for 8-10 weeks.

“While he is understandably disappointed to be missing some footy, he is eager to begin his rehab with the aim of making a valuable contribution to the side again this season,” he said.