It was a rookie season to remember for Panthers winger Taylan May.
After 21 NRL games, he was named the Ben Alexander Rookie of the Year for the Panthers, finished as the club's top try-scorer with 16 and won the OAK Plus Try of the Year at the Merv Cartwright Medal.
The 21-year-old also had the opportunity to make his Test debut for Samoa against Cook Islands during representative round, scoring two tries in his first international match.
He played a further four matches for his country at the Rugby League World Cup, including the final against Australia.
The best of Taylan May in 2022
2022 ACHIEVEMENTS
- 2022 NRL Premiership squad winner
- Panthers top try-scorer
- Test debut for Samoa
- Rugby League World Cup appearance for Samoa
- OAK Plus Try of the Year
- Ben Alexander Panthers Rookie of the Year
STAT ATTACK
Appearances – 21
Tries – 16
Line breaks – 18
Tackle breaks – 98
Running metres – 3,259 (avg. 155)
Tackles made – 110
Tackle efficiency – 90.9%
BEST TRY
Voted as the best try of the season by Panthers members and fans, Taylan May scored a spectacular try in Round 6 against the Broncos when he scooped up a stunning cross-field kick by Nathan Cleary.
Cleary and May putting on a show
WHAT WAS SAID
Earlier in the year, Taylan May signed a two-year contract extension with the club, which will see the talented winger remain at Panthers until at least the end of the 2024 season.
It’s an honour to re-sign at the club. It’s always been a dream of mine to play for the Panthers and I’m making it a reality now. Having grown up in Mt Druitt, I’m not just playing for myself, but I’m playing for my family and the whole community. The Panthers jersey means a lot to me – I’m humbled and grateful for this opportunity that has been given to me.
Taylan May Panthers winger
Taylan was given an opportunity in the starting side earlier this season and there is no question he has taken his opportunity with both hands. We’re thrilled to see another local junior progress his rugby league career at the club, and we’re excited to see Taylan remain in Panthers colours until at least the end of 2024.
Matt Cameron Panthers Rugby League CEO
SOCIAL SCENE
Taylan May and a handful of his Panthers teammates had the opportunity of meeting Jack Harlow after the US rapper's Sydney concert in July.
The Panthers were invited by Fox League as part of a promotion ahead of the NRL Finals Series.
