Lachlan Galvin is poised to face his former team, Wests Tigers, for the first time since a tumultuous mid-season exit. The departure of their 20-year-old playmaker has ignited one of the best debates to come out of an NRL season. He’s since moved on and truly hit his stride with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.
Galvin’s separation from Wests Tigers was contentious. What’s more, he largely stepped back from the rebuild that had revolved around him. This decision had many fans and analysts scratching their heads as to why he was let go. The young athlete is making waves at the Bulldogs. He has developed an impressive combination with halves partner Matt Burton, injecting attacking flair and confidence into the Knights’ attacking game.
Galvin says that they are preparing intensely for the next round at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta. Former golden boot Benji Marshall – the new head coach – explained what the supporters should expect. Marshall justifies booing right supporters by saying that supporters have the right to boo supporters because they’re unhappy. This reaction is particularly understandable in light of Galvin’s contentious exit.
“Honestly, I’d be surprised if we don’t (receive booing as well). That’s what fans’ job is to do, they go out and they get stuck into the opposition,” – Benji Marshall.
Marshall touched on the emotional and irrational nature of fan reactions in sports. He reminded athletes that learning to accept both the accolades and the negativity is an important part of their professional arc.
“You just accept it for what it is. Not everyone’s going to like you. If you can handle that, you’ll be good,” – Benji Marshall.
Even with the risk of a hostile reaction from the audience, Marshall gave credit to Galvin’s work with the Bulldogs. He noted that the young player has added a spark to their game and expressed his support for Galvin’s current form.
“He’s obviously added a bit of spark to them and is going pretty good there so good luck to them,” – Benji Marshall.
It’s been a debate-fueled rough go for Galvin on the social media front. Former teammates Jarome Luai and Sunia Turuva mocked him, and fans turned on him after his defection to the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs. Galvin is unconcerned with the narrative and just wants to perform at a high level, especially when facing off with his former squad.
As the match day gets closer, Marshall preemptively draws attention to the fact that Wests Tigers have still not mentioned Galvin. This battle of titans promises to be epic!
“We haven’t even talked about Lachie,” – Benji Marshall.
