Star recruit Jarome Luai, who has recently joined the Wests Tigers, delivered a moving message to the long-suffering fans of his new club after they achieved a resounding 32-6 victory over the Eels on Sunday.
In a formidable display, Luai teamed up with former Australian Schoolboys five-eighth Lachlan Galvin to dominate the halves, marking the Tigers’ first victory of the season.
Winger Sunia Turuva, who made the off-season switch from the Panthers alongside Luai, also made headlines by scoring a hat-trick, adding to the Eels’ woes as they faced back-to-back defeats.
The Tigers had suffered a narrow 10-8 loss in Luai’s debut in round one, but the spoils of victory were theirs on this occasion.
In a post-match interview with rugby league legend Brad Fittler, Luai expressed his dedication to the vibrant fans of the Tigers.
“The past couple of years have been tough for them, but the Tigers supporters are incredibly passionate, and we’re determined to do this for those who have stood by us,” Luai shared during the Nine broadcast.
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Wests Tigers celebrate a try in their emphatic win over the Eels. Getty
Galvin, Starford To’a, and Jeral Skelton all contributed with a try each in this impressive victory for the Tigers.
Galvin’s try was a highlight, as flamboyant fullback Jahream Bula broke through the Eels’ defence deep in Tigers territory. He connected with Adam Doueihi, who then sprinted down the left flank and delivered a perfectly timed kick into the field. Galvin latched onto the kick and sprinted away for a remarkable score, celebrating by launching the ball into the crowd while his delighted teammates swarmed him.
The Tigers would have kept the Eels scoreless if not for Sean Russell, who managed to touch down on the left wing just before the final siren.
This late try was a disappointment for Luai.
“Our aim as a team this year is to prioritise defence, but that’s rugby league for you,” the Tigers halfback reflected.
“It’s never perfect, and it gives us a target to aim for next week. We’re determined to chase that zero every week.”
His comments were noted by rugby league icon Ruan Sims, who praised Luai’s attitude.
“What I really appreciated was how Jarome Luai acknowledged our attacking play was good, but we shouldn’t have conceded any points,” Sims stated during the Nine broadcast.
The former Jillaroo commended a “very spirited performance” from the Tigers.
“Many of those tries were scored right in front of the Tigers’ passionate supporters,” Sims pointed out. “They loved every moment.”
For the Eels, coach Jason Ryles’ tenure has begun disastrously, with an earlier 56-18 loss to the Storm followed by this crushing defeat to the Tigers.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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