David Nofoaluma bounds into Wests Tigers limelight

WITH the most runs and metres of any Wests Tigers player at ANZ Stadium on Friday night, it's safe to say Ruse winger David Nofoaluma grabbed his NRL debut with both hands.

Tigers vs Souths

WITH the most runs and metres of any Wests Tigers player at ANZ Stadium on Friday night, it's safe to say Ruse winger David Nofoaluma grabbed his NRL debut with both hands.

The 19-year-old made an impressive debut for the Wests Tigers, despite the side's massive 54-10 loss to competition leaders South Sydney Rabbitohs.

In a week of drama for the NRL club including controversy over the benching of star player Benji Marshall and the resignation of chief executive officer Stephen Humphreys, Nofoaluma showed he had big-game impact with a team-best 12 runs, 121m, four tackle busts and an electrifying linebreak.

The Campbelltown Collegians junior said he was in his element during the 40m dash.

"That was exciting when I got that first palm, I think it was Issac Luke. I've just seen the gap and went for my life and broke the tackle," he said.

"I just went off and (it) felt like freedom when I was running." Nofoaluma wore the number 18 jersey after Matt Utai failed a fitness test and justified his inclusion with the best attacking stats in the side.

"I tried to keep calm but when I found out the news I was buzzing," he said.

"I started in under-6s and this is what every kid dreams to play and I got my opportunity, so I made the most of it."

The loss anchored the Tigers in last place, with chief executive Stephen Humphreys announcing his resignation after the game.

"He's (Humphreys) someone who has done a great deal for me and I thank him so much for what he's done for me and the club.

"I feel sorry for Steve; he's been in a tough position," Wests Tigers captain Robbie Farah said.

The Wests Tigers play the Cowboys on Friday night at Leichhardt Oval.