The first story of grand final heartbreak looks to have been written with Brisbane coach Chris Fagan all but ruling out ruckman Oscar McInerney from next week’s grand final.

McInerney was in obvious pain after dislocating his shoulder early in the first quarter but medical staff were able to pop it back in as he bravely fought on with it heavily strapped.

However, his night was done after he dislocated it again early in the third quarter with Fagan saying it was a huge loss.

“I probably reckon when you’ve double dislocated your shoulder in a preliminary final you’re not going to play in the grand final, which is a real pity,” Fagan said.

“He’s been enormous for us as a leader, his growth from five or six years ago to where he is now and what he means to the team is just such a real pity.

“He’s full of heart and he’s a bloke that gives himself for the team so it would be a downer for the boys but I know they’ll file that away to use as a dedication for the game as well.”

It means Darcy Fort will be the likely replacement though the former Cat has not played since round seven.

“We’re lucky our reserves team played until last week so we’ve got players ready to come in, but Oscar is a much-loved character and it’s a big pity,” he said.

In the absence of McInerney, Joe Daniher took over the ruck duties who battled admirably with nine hit-outs and three clearances.

However, Fagan said it’s not a strategy that would likely pay off in a full four quarters.

“The team that you play aginst next week has the opportunity to plan against that so I would I thought we would probably go traditional.”