Lachlan Galvin was greeted with overwhelming support as he stepped back onto the field in the NSW Cup, just days after being dropped by the Wests Tigers.
The 19-year-old has been in the spotlight of the NRL after announcing he would turn down a lucrative $5 million multi-year deal to remain with the Tigers beyond 2026.
The aftermath of this contract dispute has subjected the young talent to threats and alleged “bullying”, leading the Tigers to bolster security for him on Monday.
Galvin couldn’t inspire a dramatic win for the Magpies against Parramatta at Lidcombe Oval, with the team succumbing to a 22-10 loss.
As he was escorted by security from the pitch to the dressing rooms before, during, and after the match, the five-eighth refrained from making any remarks on his ongoing contract situation.
Reports indicate that all Wests Magpies staff and players were instructed not to engage with the media on match day.
Galvin’s father, James, was present at the game but chose not to comment on the situation.
Lachlan Galvin of the Magpies is tackled. Getty
The emerging talent demonstrated his skills during the match, delivering a brilliant pass to Izaac Tui’tupou, who dashed over in the corner for a try.
Galvin’s kicking was noteworthy against the Eels, and several fans showed their appreciation with applause as he made his way off the field post-match.
Cheers of “well played Lachie” echoed from the sidelines.
One notable spectator was young Tigers hooker Tallyn Da Silva, who made it a point to support his mate despite having his own game scheduled later that day.
When asked by The Sydney Morning Herald if he empathised with his teammate, Da Silva replied: “At the end of the day, it’s footy.”
“He has his job to do, and I have mine to focus on this weekend. That’s my priority.
“You’ll have to ask him if he wishes to stay, but I would definitely like him to remain here.”
Lachlan Galvin of the Magpies runs out at the start of the NSW Cup game. Getty
Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall acknowledged ahead of the team’s first-grade showdown against the Eels that he intended to assess Galvin’s performance in the NSW Cup on Tuesday.
However, former Parramatta back-rower Bryce Cartwright, who played against Galvin, expressed confidence that the young star would soon return to the top squad.
“He shouldn’t be playing in reserve grade,” Cartwright remarked.
“I don’t expect him to be here for long as he is far too skilled for this level.”
“It’s been a challenging week for him, especially given his age. I can only imagine what he’s experiencing with all the talk around him and the happenings behind the scenes. It’s tough, and it can get to you.
“I don’t know him personally, but he strikes me as a good lad with a solid head on his shoulders. I’m pleased to hear he has support from home, which will definitely help him.”
In light of the comments made by Jarome Luai and Sunia Turuva earlier this week, Cooper Cronk highlighted that the team must “back it up” against the Eels.
Benji Marshall, coach of the Wests Tigers. Getty
However, Marshall expressed his belief that his players would continue to perform well despite the ongoing pressure and distractions surrounding Galvin’s situation.
“At the end of the day, we have a rugby league match to focus on,” he stated on Fox League.
“Without meaning any disrespect, we’ve moved on fairly quickly.
“I understand the desire to discuss the situation, but as the coach, I need to concentrate my energy on what we’re doing today. My focus is entirely on that.
“He’s under contract for the next 18 months, so we’ll assess as usual and handle that moving forward.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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