By MARK CASHMAN

The Shute Shield has been hit by a Covid-19 scare with 12 Sydney Uni players in first and reserve grade stood down and now self isolating.

The players were unavailable for Saturday’s game against Penrith, which was won by Uni 41-3, and they may not be able to play against Southern Districts next Saturday.

The Students v Rebels game is scheduled to be the 7TWO TV match of the round.

Reliable sources told Rugby News that the players all attended a venue in Newcastle where one of the patrons had tested positive to Covid-19 after their game against the Hunter Wildfires last Saturday.

NSW Health spoke to the players as part of their contact tracing system that has been so lauded in recent weeks and informed them of the need to self isolate.

Sydney Uni officials told the Sydney Rugby Union on Friday after they had been contacted by the NSW Health.

“They have handled the situation very well and have been on the front foot all through this process,” a spokesman said.

It does highlight the need for players of all levels to take a careful approach to where and when they socialise after games.

One of the pockets of joy from the whole situation was the fact that Timmy Lilomaiava, a Penrith junior and still living at Blacktown, was able to make his first grade debut at hooker.

Others to step up were Hugh Bokenham, another first grade debutant in the back row, while the experienced Hamish Dunbar, also got time in the top grade.

A decision about whether the 12 players are available for the game against Souths will be made closer to next Saturday.

IMAGE: AJF PHOTOGRAPHY