A Crucial Test for Bronson Xerri
Bronson Xerri is on the brink of a pivotal decision regarding his future with Canterbury. After being relegated to reserve grade following the first round, his time in the lower division continued during the Good Friday loss to South Sydney. Coach Cameron Ciraldo had Xerri on a six-man bench for the Rabbitohs clash, ready to step in if there was an injury, but ultimately chose not to bring him into the game despite an AC shoulder injury that cut Stephen Crichton’s day short.
Although Xerri could have been a direct replacement for Crichton, Ciraldo opted to move Matt Burton into the centres and brought Sean O’Sullivan off the bench to pair with Lachlan Galvin in the halves. This new combination struggled in the second half, resulting in a performance riddled with errors.
Xerri was initially upset about his demotion after the first round, but he has not actively sought a release since then. However, this could change if he is overlooked again as Crichton’s replacement, adding an element of uncertainty to the team selection that Ciraldo will announce on Tuesday afternoon for the upcoming match against Penrith.
The Halves Combination: A Mixed Bag
The partnership between Burton and Galvin has been inconsistent throughout the season, leading some critics to question whether a reshuffle is necessary. Burton has experience playing in the centres, having started in that position 21 times in the NRL, including in Penrith’s 2021 grand final victory over South Sydney.
The NSW and Australia star has expressed no hesitation about returning to the centres on Thursday if it benefits the team’s chances of upsetting the undefeated Panthers. “I’ll do anything that helps the team and the coach will make the right call,” Burton said. “I’ll go back to training and train hard, we’ll see what happens.”
Galvin stood out for Canterbury in the first half against Souths, but struggled to assert himself in the second half alongside Burton and later O’Sullivan. “We’ve been building each week and trying to get the best out of each other,” Burton explained. “This was a step in the right direction. Whoever steps into that role will do a job and it will be back on again.”
Sean O’Sullivan’s Ambitions
O’Sullivan, who has made 62 NRL appearances across several clubs, is hopeful of extending his tally next week. “Obviously if Critter [Crichton] isn’t right, I’ll put my hand up,” O’Sullivan said. “I’m obviously rooting for Critter to be sweet and whatever Ciro decides, that’s what we’ll do. I’ve been really happy with my pre-season and how I’m gelling with the team. If I get the opportunity, I’ll take it with both hands.”
While Galvin has faced criticism for his performances this year, O’Sullivan has appreciated the time spent together in games and training. “He’s a good kid and he had a really good game,” O’Sullivan said. “We’re just trying to build on that connection and with everyone in the team. The best thing about Lachie is he’s a competitor, he doesn’t die wondering. It’s something he needs to keep in his game because it’s unreal. We’re all backing him 110 per cent.”
Burton’s Future with Canterbury
Burton, who is contracted to Canterbury until the end of next year, has been the subject of ongoing speculation about potentially leaving early, possibly to join the Perth Bears. However, the 26-year-old remains focused on his current responsibilities. “I’ve got a job to do here – that’s my main priority,” Burton said. “All the outside noise, I don’t read into it. I’ve got a job to do for the team – that’s first and foremost.”
