The Mole: Wests Tigers Confronting ‘Fresh Dilemma’ as Promising Star Attracts Interest from Competing Clubs

The struggling Tigers are facing fresh turmoil as several clubs, led by the Eels, express interest in promising young hooker Tallyn Da Silva.

This comes in a week where the club has already lost their talented playmaker Lachlan Galvin to the Bulldogs, making the retention of Da Silva crucial.

The issue lies in Da Silva’s belief in his potential as a starting NRL hooker, a goal he cannot reach at the Tigers while the seasoned Api Koroisau continues to deliver stellar performances, serves as team captain, and is currently discussing a new contract.

The Eels have been on the lookout for a quality hooker since losing Reed Mahoney to the Bulldogs back in 2022, and Da Silva would be a significant acquisition.

Mario Tartak, Da Silva’s manager, confirmed to Wide World of Sports that five other clubs are vying for the skilled hooker’s signature.

“Tallyn has a deep affection for the Tigers – this isn’t a situation like Lachlan Galvin,” Tartak stressed.

“While we can’t engage in discussions with other clubs at this moment, five have indicated that they would be interested if Tallyn enters the market.”

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“It’s ultimately up to the Tigers to determine their course of action, but if Api stays, it’s likely that Tallyn will have to seek opportunities elsewhere.”

North Queensland may also benefit from a strong dummy-half following the departure of State of Origin standout Reece Robson to the Roosters.

LEGEND’S LIVELY TEMPER

A former Test and State of Origin forward is working diligently to give back to grassroots football.

While participating in his local junior league, he is sharing his wealth of experience with young players; however, he has stirred some frustration by being sin-binned for three consecutive weeks, leaving his teammates dissatisfied during critical game moments.

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I won’t disclose his identity as he genuinely aims to contribute positively.

He was a remarkable player in his prime, but always had a short temper – a trait that seems to be intensifying with age.

GOLD COAST STAR FACING MAJOR SETBACK

Talented NRLW back-rower Rilee Jorgensen will not feature for the Titans this season following delicate back surgery late last year.

Jorgensen, who is known for her strong running and eye-catching pink headgear, was hopeful about a late-season return.

However, the Titans have opted to play it safe, advising Jorgensen to spend this year focusing on conditioning in the gym to ensure a full and fit return for the 2026 season.

KNIGHTS SPEEDSTER IN HIGH DEMAND

There is significant interest from multiple clubs in Knights speedster Connor Votano.

The talented player has been part of the Knights’ full-time squad this season but has found opportunities limited while competing against Kalyn Ponga and now Fletcher Sharpe, who shone against the defending champions Penrith last weekend.

The highly regarded 19-year-old from Gosford has earned recognition, receiving the Kurt Gidley Award for the 2023 Harold Matthews Cup Player of the Year and representing NSW under 19s against Queensland last year.

Votano is contracted with the Knights until the end of 2026, yet two opposing clubs have indicated that he may be donning new colours long before then.