Kevin Naiqama was the hero of last night’s brilliant Grand Final. His two tries proved the difference in St Helens’ 12-10 win over Catalans as they wrapped a third consecutive title and he played a key role in all three.
He quite rightly claimed the Man of the Match last night and the prestigious Harry Sunderland Award as he stood out in a Grand Final were plenty of players would’ve been deserving winners on either side.
Two-time Harry Sunderland winner Rob Burrow awarded him with the trophy almost exactly 10 years removed from the last time he was awarded with the individual honour in 2011.
Burrow that night devastated the Saints with arguably the greatest try and the greatest assist the Grand Final has ever seen.
Fortunately, for the Saints no such devastation occurred last night as Naiqama stood up tall with the match winning play.
In a lovely moment after the game, Naiqama accepted the trophy from Burrow as past and present collided as two three-peat winners came together to enjoy an emotional moment – a reminder of the togetherness in our great game.
The most heartwarming interview you will ever see
Kevin Naiqama, 2021 Harry Sunderland Trophy winner 🏆
Awarded by the legend that is @Rob7Burrow 👏#SuperLeague #GrandFinal pic.twitter.com/fncEtTKLEm
— Betfred Super League (@SuperLeague) October 9, 2021
Naiqama then showered Burrow in praise with a lovely tribute to the former Leeds number seven: “Thank you so much. Thank you for everything you’ve done, we really appreciate you mate. You’re a true legend. I am so grateful for this award, thank you so much. You’re a legend of the game.”
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