Connor Tracey has commented on Lachlan Galvin's impressive pre-season performance as the Canterbury Bulldogs prepare for the 2026 season. The team aims to overcome past challenges related to their 2025 season performance and frequent changes in key player positions.
Player Performance and Integration
Connor Tracey stated that Lachlan Galvin has been notably impressive during the pre-season and has integrated well into the team after joining mid-season.
Galvin had previously received significant media attention, making his seamless integration a positive sign for the Bulldogs' future.
2025 Season: A Season of Flux
In the 2025 season, Canterbury's prospects diminished significantly due to ongoing adjustments in their spine. Toby Sexton initially served as the first-choice halfback and Reed Mahoney as hooker until round 16.
The mid-season saw significant shifts:
- Lachlan Galvin replaced Sexton as starting halfback.
- Bailey Hayward took over as starting hooker from Mahoney in round 23.
Further changes occurred in the semi-final against the Panthers, with Sexton returning to halfback and Galvin moving to five-eighth. These frequent adjustments led to an inconsistent line-up and significantly impacted team cohesion.
2026 Outlook: Stability and Ambition
The departures of Toby Sexton and Reed Mahoney are anticipated to provide the Bulldogs with a more defined team structure for 2026. Connor Tracey expressed confidence in the team's potential with the new line-up, also noting Bailey Hayward's strong performance at hooker.
Hayward is prepared to assume full-time hooker duties, acknowledging the guidance he received from Mahoney during their time together.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, which commences in Las Vegas against the Dragons, Hayward emphasized the team's motivation to improve upon their 2025 results.
He described not winning the competition as a form of failure, but also an opportunity for learning. The team's objective for the opening game is to secure a victory.