While the Warriors proved a tough squad to beat on the day, Gallagher’s first hit-out of the season was commended by the club, with one report dubbing the second rower a gifted prop in the Round 7 match.

After being forced out of training as a result of a concussive head injury late in 2013, Gallagher returned to cardio training in late January and full contact training in February.

Cleared to play, he said the radio call to send him onto the field on Saturday was a huge adrenalin rush.

“It’s the hardest level of football I have played,” Gallagher said.

“It’s a lot faster and more physical.”

Coming up against the Warriors, Gallagher said the physical Warriors line-up proved too tough on the day, with the Dragons’ defences under high pressure from the kick-off.

Now living in Wollongong, Gallagher said he is coming out of hard training under dual coaches and Dragons legends Ben Hornby and Dean Young, with an eye to securing a regular spot in the Under 20s line-up. 

Speaking highly of the coaches for bringing out the best of the team, Gallagher said the side is beginning to focus on team structure for which he is hoping to secure a spot for the next match.

Coming from defeat, the Dragons have maintained second place on the 2014 Holden Cup leader board, close on the heels of the season-leading Knights.