Ciraldo backs Dogs skipper to thrive in halves with Galvin
Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo says he’s not worried about Stephen Crichton and Lachlan Galvin teaming up in the halves, despite the club finding success last week with Sean O’Sullivan stepping into the role.
Three different halves pairings have been fielded by Ciraldo over the course of this season as he looks to find the winning formula for his team.
Ciraldo’s halves pairing for this week Getty
Crichton and Galvin have seemingly got the nod to stick to that role for the time being.
Matt Burton held onto the No.6 jersey at the start of the season before being switched to the centres - a role he has played at club and representative level - while Crichton moved into the halves in round 16 against Manly.
A lingering injury for Crichton left Ciraldo with no choice but to bring O’Sullivan in against the Tigers, a game that the club ultimately went on to win 32-0.
While it appeared he had pushed his case to retain a spot in the halves this week, O’Sullivan has been moved to the bench to make way for Crichton.
Ciraldo believes having an experienced leader like Crichton one space closer to a young talent like Galvin will only be beneficial for the club and player long term.
“Lachie has been impressive all year,” he told reporters.
“He has a had number of really good games this year and also some learning experiences, as most young halves do.
“(Being next to Crichton) looks like it has been really good for him. I think it is good for Lachie with the way he has evolved. He has gotten better every week.
“Whoever is next to him, I think it has just been part of Lachie’s evolution that he is feeling more and more comfortable.”
As for doubters of Crichton’s return to the halves, Ciraldo was stern.
“He is training really well this week and has done plenty of reps,” he said.
“Critta went pretty well against the Titans, so I’m pretty happy with that.”
O’Sullivan has hinted in the past that he is eager to prove he deserves a regular starting spot in first grade, but Ciraldo is sticking with his preferred line-up.
Crichton returns just two weeks after being stretchered off the field Getty
“There are six people on the bench this year so no one is guaranteed anything,” Ciraldo said when asked if O’Sullivan would get more game time.
“He is there, ready to go, and he can cover anywhere.”
The Bulldogs will look to improve their 10th-place position on the ladder when they take on the Warriors at home on Saturday afternoon.
