Joey Manu has been awarded the Golden Boot as the best men’s player in the Rugby League World Cup.
Manu, a centre for Sydney Roosters, has been superb playing fullback for New Zealand during the tournament.
His magic was there for all to see in the opening game when he blew away Lebanon suddenly despite the fact that for 50 minutes the game had been a tight affair, his magic blew the Cedars away.
It’s interesting that he scoops the award in a tournament where two of his Sydney Roosters teammates also starred at fullback and will collide in the final.
Australia skipper James Tedesco is the Roosters’ number one whilst Joseph Suaali’i has been amazing in guiding Samoa to the final at Old Trafford.
As has Jarome Luai who will count himself unlucky for missing out on the award after inspiring Samoa throughout the tournament. He was man of the match in three of Samoa’s four wins.
Josh Addo-Carr must have been up there too after equalling the record for most tries in a tournament with a game to go.
Warrington Wolves and England star George Williamis misses out despite making the last five as does teammate Victor Radley.
Leigh Leopards star Edwin Ipape had made the original list as had Tom Burgess.
The award was handed out by former Leeds Rhinos, Warrington Wolves and Salford Red Devils man Adrian Morley.
St Helens legend James Graham was on the panel to determine who won the award.
Fellow Kiwi Raecene McGregor has won the women’s Golden Boot.