No Galvin, No Problem: How the High-Flying Bulldogs Can Thrive Without the Discontented Tigers Star

The news of Lachlan Galvin’s exit from the Wests Tigers at the conclusion of next season sparked immediate speculation, with the Bulldogs among the first clubs to express interest in the promising teen.

Canterbury’s chief, Phil Gould, has consistently praised the 19-year-old, even prior to his NRL debut, and has branded him a potential premiership contender.

Under Gould’s leadership, Canterbury is steadily improving, with Cameron Ciraldo solidifying his status as an elite head coach over the past year.

However, in a surprising turn for many in the rugby league scene, Gould dismissed claims that Galvin would join the Bulldogs, be it in 2026 or 2027.

In a media briefing on Tuesday, Ciraldo mentioned that the Dogs had indeed had “conversations” regarding Galvin’s immense talent, but clarified why they decided against pursuing him.

“Currently, we have our plan in place and intend to stick to it,” the coach stated.

“Everything is working well for us at the moment – the players in those positions are excelling, and we’ve dedicated significant resources to our pathway system. We’ll continue on our current trajectory and let others concern themselves with speculation.

“When exceptional players enter the market, discussions are natural, but we can’t actually approach him for another seven months anyway.

“We focus on development, and we’ve followed this course for years. Our intent isn’t to bring in too many external players.

“Gus has dismissed the noise, so we’ll carry on with what we’re doing.”

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Both Ciraldo and Gould have reiterated their commitment to nurturing homegrown playmakers.

This raises the question: what does the future hold for the No.6 and No.7 jerseys at the Bulldogs?

Currently, it’s evident that Matt Burton and Toby Sexton are at the forefront – rightfully so, having led the team to finals last year and starting the current season undefeated at 6-0.

Sexton, in particular, has shown remarkable development, stepping up admirably during the month his halves partner was absent due to a knee injury.

Yet, despite his significant progress, Sexton’s contract with Canterbury for 2026 remains unsigned, and his coach provided a vague update when queried about a new deal.

“Not to my knowledge,” Ciraldo responded.

“Toby is performing well and demonstrating key elements of his game competently. However, there are some areas we expect him to refine as well, and he understands that.

“As he continues to develop weekly, those improvements will also follow.”

During the brief period when Burton was unavailable, Bailey Hayward excelled in the five-eighth role, earning a one-year contract extension.

“He’s another option in the halves if those situations arise,” Ciraldo mentioned.

As things stand, Hayward is secured until 2026, Burton until 2027, while Sexton’s contract status remains uncertain and could change swiftly.

Below this trio, Canterbury boasts depth in their playmaking ranks.

Joseph O’Neill has established himself as the halfback for the NSW Cup side but is currently on a development contract for this season.

The 22-year-old local product progressed through the development system, captaining the Jersey Flegg championship-winning team in 2023, but has yet to make his NRL debut and lacks a contract for the next season as of now.

Cassius Tia, who initially played as a halfback in age group competitions, has recently been stationed in the centres of reserve grade alongside seasoned campaigner Drew Hutchison in the halves.

A native of Auckland, Tia joined the Bulldogs and contributed to the team’s back-to-back Jersey Flegg titles last year.

However, Tia currently does not hold a contract with the top 30 or as a development player with the Bulldogs.

Given the uncertain futures of Sexton, Tia, and O’Neill, it’s clear that one of the brightest young talents in the country is favoured as the long-term partner for Burton.

Mitchell Woods, the teenage prodigy who had both AFL and rugby union seeking his commitment, is already on a top 30 contract and will remain with the Bulldogs until 2027.

Gould holds a very high opinion of the talented young playmaker, who shone in the U19s State of Origin and claimed the SG Ball Player of the Year award last season.

Recently returning from a hamstring injury during the SG Ball competition, the 18-year-old is set to advance to Jersey Flegg, with a reserve grade debut looming.

Burton and Woods being the only two playmakers with long-term contracts at Canterbury suggests a future focus following the decision not to pursue Galvin.

Nonetheless, even if circumstances shift, both Ciraldo and Gould surely have ample options at their disposal, and with a strong lineup of outside backs and an improving forward pack, Bulldogs supporters have much to look forward to in the coming years.