After being dropped to the Warriors ISP side in favour of reserve-grade specialist Blake Ayshford, I believe the final nail is in the coffin for Tui Lolohea’s career in New Zealand.
After debuting for the Warriors late in the 2014 season, Lolohea has struggled to lock down a permanent position in the star-studded backline. He has filtered between fullback, winger, center, five-eighth and halfback. Basically, he’s been the Warriors Mr Fix It for the last couple of years.
Lolohea was nominated for the Rookie of the Year award at the 2015 Dally Ms, after a strong breakout season in the top flight of rugby league. He highlighted his footwork, speed, and versatility through the season, and was a shining light in a disappointing Warriors team.
However life for Tui hasn’t been all the sunshine and rainbows he would have hoped for. Being unable to lock down a spot in a side can be frustrating for a player. He was even played off the bench at certain points last season.
Lolohea would be an asset to nearly any other club if they were to sign him. He is still young at the age of 22, and has over 50 games of NRL experience, as well as international experience with Tonga and New Zealand.
There are several clubs that would benefit from signing Lolohea.
Wests Tigers
With a host of big-name players off contract and uncertain about their future, the Tigers could end up needing a player like Lolohea to fill the gaps.
Even if the Tigers retain all of their stars, Lolohea would fit in nicely in either a center or wing position, where the Tigers are lacking depth.
Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs
The Bulldogs are currently in a state of crisis. There are calls to sack the coach, the team isn’t playing well, and the fans are not happy.
The introduction of a player like Tuimoala Lolohea could give the Dogs the spark they need, and light up the current situation in Belmore.
Newcastle Knights
Any player on the market right now could be utilised by Newcastle, who are still struggling after a poor 2016 season.
Without a proper fullback for the remainder of the season, Lolohea would fit like a glove into the Knights backline.
Gold Coast Titans
The injury-plagued Titans would surely welcome a fresh back with open arms.
With so many players out for extended periods, a move to the Titans right now would see Lolohea get the game time he deserves.
Give your opinion on which club you think could use Tui, and see other people’s opinions on Twitter.
While you’re over there, follow me @pattysills17
Albo
Guest
Yep ! I think I am in your court zim ! I don't think you can blame two years of poor form simply on being in the Warriors system, and by breaking those shackles might see him return to the form of a couple of games he played in 2015 ? He has obvious talents, but he doesn't look like a committed type to me and I wouldn't be gambling my hard earned on him till he showed me some serious desire for the game.
kk
Roar Pro
Excellent piece Patrick. I would love to see Tulmoala Lolohea under the guidance of Neil Henry or Paul Green who could then have two 'Lolo's ' on the books. Both are realists with great patience. This young man signature should be of the utmost importance to any serious recruiter. He makes me focus that little bit more, knowing that class has come onto my radar. Wherever he goes I wish 'Tui' well.
zim
Guest
I think anyone signing him would be taking a gamble. He just looks completely lost out there at times and when he can't get something to happen he does something absolutely silly instead of just looking to the next play. There is the argument that all could be a result of his pin balling around the Warriors line up. Personally I just don't think he's got the defence or the decision making to be a long term first grade player.
Zedman
Roar Rookie
Could be a mid-season trade happening here. Lolohea's form is very much Warrior like for mine, worldbeaters for twenty minutes, chill out for the next sixty.