Debutant Dufty looms as Dugan replacement

St George Illawarra may have uncovered their next star fullback, following Matthew Dufty’s stellar debut in Sunday’s 52-22 win over Manly.

With Josh Dugan set to depart the club at the end of the season, Dufty showed the NRL just what he’d promised in under-20s for the past few years with a dynamic display.

The 21-year-old broke through 10 tackles, scored a try and set up two others, as he looked dangerous every time he touched the football in his free-flowing debut.

“I didn’t really find an issue with the physicality,” Dufty said after the match.

“It’s good having big bodies around. It wasn’t really as big of a step up as I thought it was going to be.

“It was still the fastest, hardest game I’ve ever played, but maybe it was the adrenaline, but I loved it.

“It’s something I’ve never experienced, anything like that before. Today is a day I cherish forever.”

After being told he was playing on Thursday, Dufty admitted to getting nervous when he saw the line-markers and seat cleaners as he turned up to the final training session on Saturday.

But it’s a sight he might have to get used to at the Dragons.

Coach Paul McGregor has indicated the Saints will look within for Dugan’s replacement, and with 54 tries in 65 under-20s games, Dufty is the likely front-runner alongside Jai Field.

“Next year it will probably be one of my main goals,” Dufty said.

“Duges is there this year and he is a world-class player so I’ve just got to learn from him.

“It’s not on my mind yet, it will be in pre-season, but that’s a couple of months away.”

The performance impressed McGregor, who has kept a close eye on the former under-20s NSW fullback in recent years.

“It’s a good opportunity – we haven’t replaced Duges,” McGregor said.

“He (Dufty) showed what he’s got. He’s got ability to burn people with his speed and he’s got a really nice catch and pass.

“His strength is deceptive. Because he is so quick he can get away from people and use his natural strength.

“Today was a good sign for him and a good sign for us.”

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