A “statement victory” in bid to claim the minor premiership has been marred by injury concerns as Brisbane Broncos second-rower Romy Teitzel is rushed to hospital.

In worrying signs for the Broncos, Teitzel was taken to hospital for scans on her back after reporting “nerve complaints” during the half time break.

Initial reports presented minor concerns for the team, however, Teitzel was later spotted “walking on crutches” as she was rushed to hospital.

Eight errors in the opening 20 minutes gifted the Dragons easy metres as an “uncharacteristic” Broncos line struggled to adapt to the sweltering conditions.

“That is unheard of for them,” Ruan Sims said in commentary on Nine.

“They may be one of the best attacking teams, but fundamental errors have let them down,” Johnathan Thurston added.

But the short absence of playmaker Tyla King proved costly for the Dragons as Jada Ferguson flipped the narrative in favour of the Broncos as she powered over the line.

King’s removal from the field was a worrying sign for Nine’s Marlee Silva, who noted the star had suffered a serious concussion that left her sidelined for multiple games earlier in the season.

“What’s really concerning is she has had a bad concussion already this season, which saw her sit out for a number of games,” she said.

“She had lingering conditions, headaches, leading up to her return. We really hope that this one isn’t affecting her and that she can come back.”

Brisbane’s onslaught was ignited by Maroons centre Shenae Ciesiolka, who dived over for back-to-back tries courtesy of her fancy footwork.

Julia Robinson scored a double for the team to extend the lead, with Mele Hufanga and Chlsea Lenarduzzi’s efforts pushing the Dragons hopes further out of reach.

A 22-year playing career was not going to end without a try for 42-year-old prop Steph Hancock, who dated over from close range to score.

But upon review by the Bunker the retiring star was denied, with video replays indicating she had planted the ball short.

Ferguson wrapped up the scoreline with a stellar try in the 64th minute, sealing the victory at 44-14.