Ruckman Lobb out in big blow for Giants

Greater Western Sydney ruckman Rory Lobb is out for at least a month due to a spinal fracture, in another blow for the injury-hit club.

The Giants had initially feared Lobb had punctured his lung but scans later revealed a small fracture to his thoracic spine.

It continues Lobb's wretched run with injury in 2018. The 25-year-old missed four matches after hurting his knee in round three against Sydney, and now has another stint on the sidelines.

The Giants now face a dilemma at selection as to whether they should bring back relief ruckman Dawson Simpson or again play spearhead Jonathon Patton in the position.

The club plays the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba this week as it aims to post a third-consecutive victory and stay in touch with the eight.

They then face fellow finals contender Hawthorn at home in a match which could go a long way to shaping the eight.