BARNAWARTHA'S premiership aspirations appeared to have suffered a massive blow with ruckman Adam Elias unlikely to play again this season with a knee injury.
He hasn't played since round six after injuring his knee against Kiewa-Sandy Creek.
Elias is set to have scans today but fears he could miss the Tigers' premiership assault.
"I'm seeing the specialist on Thursday," Elias said.
"I hurt my knee during the first quarter against Kiewa and haven't played since.
"Initially the physio didn't think it was too bad but it just hasn't gotten any better after a month off.
"So I had an MRI and now I have to see the specialist to see what they recommend.
"I suspect without knowing for sure that it could be season over."
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Elias alongside reigning Barton medallist Scott Spencer are the two premier big men in the competition.
The athletic tall is desperate to be part of the Tigers' flag assault but is mindful that his employment as a plumber is his number one priority.
"Unfortunately I'm not in a position where I can prioritise my football," he said.
"I can't risk playing and injuring my knee again and being off work.
"The physio suspects if I play again too soon I could do my ACL because of the structural damage.
"I'd rather be out for eight to ten weeks and probably miss finals than the alternative of coming back too soon and being out for 12 months."
If Elias is forced to miss the rest of the season the Tigers will rely predominantly on Tom Hoffart to cover the gaping hole.
Youngster Jackson Spiers is also a developing ruckman.
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