NRL 2021: Knights star Bradman Best recalls his role in tackle which ended Brett Morris’ career

The player at the centre of the tackle that ended the NRL career of Brett Morris recalls his role in the fateful incident and is convinced ‘there was nothing really in it.’

NEWCASTLE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 01: Brett Morris of the Roosters comes off injured during the round eight NRL match between the Newcastle Knights and the Sydney Roosters at McDonald Jones Stadium, on May 01, 2021, in Newcastle, Australia. (Photo by Ashley Feder/Getty Images)

Upset Newcastle centre Bradman Best has spoken of the moment which ended Brett Morris’ career, claiming his tackle was “unlucky, terrible and heartbreaking.”

Best, 19, was involved in what looked an innocuous tackle on Morris which saw the Roosters champion sustain a career-ending ACL injury.

Aware of Morris’ pain, Best immediately motioned for medical attention.

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Brett Morris is taken from the field after suffering his serious injury.

The tackle – which pushed Morris into touch - occurred in the 77th minute and included Best and Newcastle winger Brayden Musgrove.

“It was definitely heartbreaking. You never want to be in a situation like that. It is very sad,” Best said.

“The player that he is, the talent and what he’s done for the game … I didn’t hear anything in the actual tackle but I knew it was bad straight away. There was a lot of concern from the boys from both sides. I hope he has a speedy recovery.

“There was nothing really in the tackle. That was the weird thing with ACLs’ – they are freak incidents.

“I don’t even know how it happened. The knee just gave way. It was so unlucky.

“They are terrible injuries and definitely the hardest to overcome, too. That’s why they sometimes end careers or seasons.”

Bradman Best said the Brett Morris injury was ‘heartbreaking and very sad’.

Best’s comments come as the champion Knights centre opened up about his excitement at playing Magic Round.

Newcastle play Wests Tigers on Friday week to open what should be a Magic Round extravaganza at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane.

The future NSW star has previously played at Suncorp but never before an expected crowd which could top 40,000.

“It will be a big weekend and a good weekend to play,” Best said.

“I haven’t played in a Magic Round before but it will have a good vibe having all the teams around.

“It will be a good get-together, all the boys mingling and seeing some familiar faces.

Bradman Best is looking forward to Magic Round in Brisbane.

“We are there to play footy but also there to enjoy the little things outside of footy, catching up with the other teams and players. I am very fortunate to be part of it. I’m keen and it will be a weekend to look forward to.”

Best was struck down with an elbow injury earlier this year but remains in Origin contention for NSW.

In March, Blues adviser Greg Alexander said of Best: “Every time he touches the ball, it seems like something is about to happen. That’s how dynamic I find him.”

Told about Alexander’s quote, Best said: “It’s very humbling to hear that I’m in the picture but there’s no rush for me, I haven’t really thought about it too much.

“Origin is definitely a goal of mine, it’s the pinnacle of rugby league. It would be a dream playing in that Sky Blue jersey.

“I’m still hopeful it comes but just have to do everything to put my best foot forward and keep ripping in here at the Knights.”

Originally published as NRL 2021: Knights star Bradman Best recalls his role in tackle which ended Brett Morris’ career