Salford Red Devils centre Tim Lafai revealed that he rediscovered his love for rugby league by joining the Betfred Super League side last year.
The Samoan international enjoyed a dream debut campaign in the Super League in 2022, scoring six tries, providing 14 assists and was named in the Super League’s Dream Team as a result.
The 31-year-old's excellent form with the Red Devils saw him recalled to the Samoa national team for their Rugby League World Cup campaign. Lafai was a late call up to Matt Parish’s squad and his strong performances continued with six tries in five matches for his country, who he had not played for in over three years.
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Lafai told The Sportsman about how Salford brought back his love for the game.
“The whole purpose of me coming over here was to find that passion and love for the game again,” he said.
“Luckily I found the right team that’s suited to the way I play and coach in Rowsley. I knew I had it in me, it's just finding that right environment which I did in Salford, so it’s definitely been an enjoyable season last year.”
The Red Devils were widely praised for their exciting style of play in the Super League in 2022 and Lafai says that all the pieces came together for Salford to be the eye-catching team they are.
“I think it’s just having a good coach and system around you that helps. And also having the right boys around you, which I feel they’ve done well with recruiting. Now you’re finding the right spine and the kind of style that we play, so that definitely helped.”
Lafai was rewarded with a fresh three-year contract by the club in December for his outstanding contributions last term and people believe the Red Devils can go even further in the Super League in 2023.
Salford Red Devils kickstart their 2023 Betfred Super League campaign on Friday 17 February with a trip to Leigh Leopards which kicks off at 8pm.
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