DAVID FA’ALOGO celebrated scoring a try on his Giants Super League debut against Bradford Bulls and today declared: “The best is yet to come!”
It was the dream start for the New Zealand World Cup winner, whose 44th-minute score on Friday proved crucial as Huddersfield notched a 24-12 opening-night triumph at the Galpharm.
But having spent much of pre-season in rehab following minor ankle and knee surgery, the 29-year-old back-row forward knows the celebrations can’t afford to last too long.
“Scoring the try was fantastic, something I wasn’t expecting, and getting the win was even better,” said the former South Sydney star.
“You always want to get off to a good start, and that victory will do us a lot of good.
“But I don’t think any of us will get too carried away, I certainly know I won’t, because I’m still no way near my best.
“With spending so much time in rehab, my fitness is still way off, and it’s something I need to spend a lot more time working on.
“Fortunately, now I’ve scored a try, I know I’ve got at least one less thing to worry about and I can concentrate more on the rugby and the fitness.
“Almost as soon as I got here I heard about this naked run the players have to do if they don’t score a try during the season. I can already stop thinking about that, which is fantastic.
“It’s just a case of getting myself fitter and continuing to get used to the different style of play in Super League. Once I’ve done that, then I know I’ll be able to offer the team a lot more.”
Fa’alogo does, however, believe the English style will suit his game.
“The supporters here are awesome,” he added. “I’d been told the atmosphere at games is fantastic and it’s in a different league to over in Australia.
“All the chanting is amazing. I could hear our fans throughout the game the other night, and it really is a great experience. It gives you a massive lift.
“Obviously, it’s early days, but when I get a couple more games under my belt I think I’ll start to adapt to the style in Super League, and then I can hopefully appreciate the crowds even more.”
