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- NRL 2026 Four Point Focus: Galvin Looks Like A #6, But Has The Tools To Be A #7
NRL 2026 Four Point Focus: Galvin Looks Like A #6, But Has The Tools To Be A #7
There is wide debate over whether or not Lachlan Galvin can take the Bulldogs to a premiership as a #7, but he's their best option heading into the 2026 NRL season.
Jason Oliver
February 22, 2026
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The Four Point Focus breaks down a try from every round of the 2025 NRL season, highlighting the context, shape, trigger and the lessons learned. It’s viewed with an eye on 2026 as we look for trends, breakout players and hints of what might be to come next season.
This one is going out for free, but sign up before Round 1 using this link, and you’ll have full access to everything for 90 days - free of charge - to open 2026 NRL season.
Point 1 - The Context
As the Canterbury-Bankstown board the plane to Las Vegas to kick off the 2026 NRL season, debate surrounds their #7 jersey.
While Lachlan Galvin is widely considered the leading man of their future in the halves, is he the present in a premiership-contending team?
Much of the sentiment seems to suggest he’s not the best fit in the #7 jersey right now. “He’s a six” is the most common response of seen. I thought much of the same six months ago…
Galvin still has a lot to work on before he becomes a top-tier NRL half. He’s a big spot in the defensive line for attacking teams, and his last play decision-making leaves a lot to be desired. But those are issues you’d expect from a young halfback in the early stages of his first grade career - physicality and game management.
However, while he struggled to fill the role of the traditional halfback after making his mid-season switch to the Bulldogs, the signs are there.
Those signs were on show in Round 21 as he orchestrated a late game-winner. Another offseason as an NRL halfback will help, too.
Smart starts here.
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Point 2 - The Shape
With the game on the line and a set attacking the St George Illawarra line, the Bulldogs worked towards the spots they no doubt highlighted during the week.
The Dragons right edge became a target. Specifically, the Dogs getting a half into the three-man with a lead inside two, forcing the winger into a 2 v 1 battle.
Jaemon Salman and Galvin set it up early by training the defence to hold on the drop play.
If you look at Kyle Flanagan three-in, you’ll see him sit back on his heels once Galvin takes the ball. He has a tendency to step backwards to buy time for his backrower to scramble across when isolated, and does the same when Matt Burton gets into him only 30 seconds later.
It’s all there in the match-winning try another 60 seconds later, too…
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