Paull back in action
It was a head clash in a game against Sydney FC in early April which could have changed Kieren Paull’s life.
After the final whistle, the reliable Manly United right back had a blinding headache which wouldn’t go away.
“I went to Ryde Hospital and had a CT scan,” the 24-year-old said this week.
“They found three fractures right around my eye socket, it shook me up a bit.
“Eventually I also saw a plastic surgeon, I was relieved when he told me I didn’t need any work done.”
The diagnosis for Paull was simple – no contact sport for at least six weeks.
A frustrated spectator, he admitted the past few weeks have been difficult to watch.
“I wanted to be playing, but I had to be smart in terms of my recovery,” Paull said.
“Thankfully I’m sweet now.”
Paull returned to the fray last Saturday night at Cromer Park against Hakoah – wearing headgear.
“It looked a little weird, but I didn’t care,” he said.
“As soon as I won my first header, I was fine.
“I’m looking forward to the second half of the season – we need to go on a run so we can play in the semis.”