Cameron Smith has pointed out a strategic misstep for the Bulldogs as they consider how to utilise Lachlan Galvin and Toby Sexton together. The dynamic surrounding Galvin’s arrival has resulted in some significant player movements, with Reed Mahoney set to leave for the Cowboys and Sexton moving to the Super League next season. In Galvin’s debut for the Bulldogs, he came off the bench, causing Mahoney to be substituted and resulting in a visible display of frustration from Mahoney in the changing room afterwards.
Smith expressed his concerns regarding the current hooker rotation strategy, suggesting that it wouldn’t be effective for a team vying for the premiership. He remarked that if the Bulldogs were to retain Galvin on the bench, they must define his role more clearly. During a recent match against the Broncos, Galvin started at five-eighth with Matt Burton shifted to centre, yet he struggled to make a significant impact. A critical error involving a pass that led to a try for the Broncos highlighted his inexperience.
With Sexton departing the club, both Smith and Andrew Johns believe Galvin will be more favourable when selecting the team for the upcoming matches. Johns predicted Galvin would play at halfback, while Smith acknowledged the difficult decision facing the Bulldogs in letting Sexton go, particularly given his contributions thus far in the season, helping the team secure a top position.
Contrarily, Brad Fittler brings a differing perspective, acknowledging Galvin’s potential and his ability to contribute off the bench, but also noting that he is prone to mistakes, especially under pressure. He cited recent match errors that resulted in try opportunities for the opposition due to Galvin’s lack of maturity in decision-making. Fittler believes the solution may lie in adjusting how and when Galvin is inserted into the game, potentially advocating for earlier substitutions to lessen his burden.
In summary, as the Bulldogs navigate their line-up amidst player changes, the integration of Galvin alongside Sexton remains a point of contention, with both potential benefits and challenges identified by analysts and former players alike.