Lachlan Galvin has shown no early signs that he'll fall victim to second-season syndrome as the five-eighth impressed in Wests Tigers' pre-season challenge clash with Canterbury.
Galvin, with just 21 NRL games to his name, was the most experienced player picked by Tigers coach Benji Marshall for Sunday's trial at Jubilee Oval as the Dogs won 20-14.
The 19-year-old Galvin produced the play of the match late in the first half when he shaped to kick on the last tackle and instead opted to run.
He flung the ball out wide to winger Alex Lobb, whose grubberkick back in-field was scooped up and put down by fullback Heath Mason.
Galvin's kicking game also stood out on a blustery afternoon and the livewire No. 6 went agonisingly close to nudging two 40/20s before being subbed off by Marshall at halftime.
The teenage playmaker was one of few highlights for Tigers fans in 2024.
And the joint-venture's long-suffering supporters will be hoping Galvin can strike up a combination with the club's marquee recruit Jarome Luai, who was mobbed for autographs as he watched from the stands.
Luai and Galvin are expected to have their first run-out together in next Friday's trial with Parramatta.
When Galvin went off at halftime the Tigers trailed 10-6, with Mason's effort cancelled out by tries to Jack Todd and Ratu Rinakama.
Rinakama crossed again in the second half and the rangy winger looks to have all the physical attributes which could lead to a promising NRL career.
Tigers centre Solomona Faataape scored a double and looked in good nick in his first hit-out for the year.
Faataape was hit with a breach notice for returning to pre-season training out of shape.
Canterbury were able to put the Tigers away late on with Jonathan Sua's try sealing the victory for a Dogs side laden with NSW Cup and Jersey Flegg players.
