Prop Francis Tualau has been named in Des Hasler’s line-up to take on the Cronulla Sharks this Saturday night at Shark Park.
A strong running forward with excellent ball skills, Francis is a graduate of the Melbourne Storm system and arrived at Belmore in 2017, following two seasons for the Easts Tigers in the Queensland Intrust Super Cup.
Tualau, made an appearance for the Bulldogs in their Auckland Nines campaign back in February and has also impressed throughout the Intrust Super Premiership this season.
The 23-year old will become the fourth player to make his NRL debut for the club this season.
“It’s a big thing for me and my family. It’s very humbling to finally make my debut for such a great club. It’s been a long journey for me, but my family is pretty excited to finally see me make my debut,” said Tualau.
The father of three made the move from Melbourne over the off-season and while adjusting to life in Sydney can take time, the prop forward is loving being part of the Bulldogs.
“Life in Sydney is very busy, but the family love it. The Bulldogs are a great club and a very successful one. I’m just glad to be a part of it,” added Tualau.
Coach Des Hasler has included Francis in the side after David Klemmer and Josh Jackson were both named in the New South Wales team.
“Des just wants me to do my job. I have big shoes to fill, but I just need to focus on doing what I do well and bring impact from the bench,” said Tualau.
The Canterbury- Bankstown Bulldogs will head to the Sutherland Shire for the first time since 2011, to face the Cronulla Sharks at 7:30pm this Saturday.
