Team connection and loyalty runs high at Wests Tigers after thrilling Round 18 win

After the stunning Round 18 NRL victory over the Roosters at Allianz Stadium, the familial atmosphere at Wests Tigers was clear for all to see.

The connection and sense of loyalty shared between the playing group and coaching staff was in full effect during the match and post-game, as the visitors emerged victorious despite missing co-captains Jarome Luai and Api Koroisau, amongst others.

And post-match, these sentiments were rammed home even further.

Directly following his most impressive performance in the top grade to date, Latu Fainu spoke to Fox League, ensuring to make mention of the influence Head Coach Benji Marshall has had on the squad.

“This win means a lot. Not just for us but for the fans, and especially our coach,” Fainu said.

Benji’s been teaching me, whatever’s in front of you, take it.

Latu Fainu

“I just love playing for this jersey and I love playing for these fans.”

For Latu, the family connection in the group is even more relevant, given he and brothers, Sione and Samuela, created history on Sunday, as the first set of three brothers to score tries in the same match in the NRL era.

In the absence of Koroisau and Luai, Alex Twal skippered the side for the first time, producing a typically hard-working 44 minute stint in the middle of the field.

Speaking at the post-match media conference, he too made reference to the team’s commitment to Marshall.

“I think it started with Benji, we showed today how much he means to us,” said Twal.

“We obviously wanted to go out there and put in a really good performance for him.

We had a lot of young boys out there today and some of their efforts were just unbelievable.

Alex Twal

Marshall was full of praise for his young side, making specific mention of the squad’s young players who are keen to help the team progress forward into the future.

Despite some challenging recent weeks, the coach was frank in his assessment of the roster.

“We want guys who want to be here,” said Marshall.

“You’re talking about the Latu’s, and Samuela’s, and Luke Laulilii’s; they want to be here.

“There is a future there but at the same time, you’ve got to have a good group of leaders who are driving the ship. And today they were outstanding.”

Wests Tigers will look to turn their momentum into more competition points when they take on the Warriors in New Zealand this Sunday.