Wests Tigers’ Rising Star Lachie Galvin Poised for Major Pay Rise as Club Legend Urges Loyalty
Wests Tigers’ promising young playmaker Lachie Galvin is on the verge of securing a lucrative new contract, but club legend Steve ‘Blocker’ Roach hopes the 19-year-old remains loyal despite interest from rival clubs.
Galvin, who is only in his second NRL season, has quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in the game. With a shortage of quality halves across the league, clubs such as the Bulldogs and Parramatta are reportedly looking to lure him away with offers as high as $800,000 per season.
Roach, however, is urging Galvin to stay at the Tigers and continue developing his combination with Jarome Luai.
“I hope he shows a bit of loyalty,” Roach told news.com.au. “The Tigers gave him an opportunity, and he’s already played a fair number of first-grade games.
“It all depends on who he listens to—whether it’s management, family, or others. I’d love to see him stay at the Tigers for a while and build that combination with Luai. Loyalty is rare these days, and hopping around for money doesn’t always work out. It’s nice when people can look back and say you were loyal to the club that gave you a chance.”
Luai and Galvin: A Natural Fit
Roach also highlighted the potential of the Luai-Galvin partnership, noting that both players thrive as natural ball runners.
“Luai is starting to hit his straps,” Roach said. “He might be giving Lachie a bit of a roaming option to run the ball more.
“Luai’s always been a great runner of the football, but right now, he seems to be stepping back and allowing Galvin to take on that role. While they both excel as runners, someone needs to take charge of the game management, including the kicking and controlling the tempo. Right now, that’s falling on Luai’s shoulders.”
Tigers Must Improve Defence to Challenge for Finals
Roach believes that for the Tigers to become a genuine finals contender, they need to tighten up their defence.
“You’ve got to keep teams under 18 points if you’re serious about making the semi-finals,” Roach said. “I’d like to see them stop sides from scoring so easily.
“If they make the top eight, it would be a surprise, but even finishing around 10th to 12th would be considered a solid season.”
Is Benji the Right Man for the Job?
Benji Marshall, who took over as head coach this season, has faced scrutiny over his limited coaching experience. Roach remains cautiously optimistic but believes time will tell whether Marshall is the right man to lead the Tigers forward.
“You can’t blame Benji for taking the job,” Roach said. “But just because you were a great player doesn’t guarantee success as a coach.
“I thought he might have done a bit more of an apprenticeship in the lower grades before taking the reins. It’s a tough ask for someone with limited experience.
“Time will tell. If the Tigers go on a run and make the top eight this year, it’s a brilliant move. But based on last year, you’d say he struggled. Of course, you need the right players to win big games.”
Terrell May Tipped for Origin Debut
Roach also heaped praise on new Tigers recruit Terrell May, suggesting the prop is a strong contender for selection in NSW’s State of Origin squad.
“Terrell May has been absolutely outstanding,” Roach said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he sneaks into the 17 for Origin.
“He’s probably been their best player. What I love about him is that he just gets on with the job without any fuss.”
Tigers Set to Face Dolphins in Key Clash
The Wests Tigers, currently sitting 1-1 for the season, will aim to secure their second win when they take on the Dolphins at Redcliffe this Saturday afternoon. Fans can catch the action live on Fox League via Kayo Sports.
