Hodges a late casualty

Brisbane has suffered a further injury blow with in-form centre Justin Hodges a late withdrawal from tomorrow night's NRL clash with Sydney at Aussie Stadium.

Hodges, the Bronco's best player this season, failed to get through training this morning with an ankle injury but had still been expected to play against his former club. But Hodges' injury was too serious, making way for replacement 21-year-old Ian Lacey.

The Broncos had already lost Test player Brent Tate who was ruled out at training.