Ben Barba has been named as the Steve Prescott Man of Steel for 2018.
The 29-year-old was voted the outstanding performer in the Betfred Super League season by a poll of his fellow players.
He is the eighth Saint to win the award and he also took home the top try scorer trophy too.
“I am extremely honoured to be able to win this award especially after being nominated alongside two world class players,” he said. “It is an unbelievable feeling. All I can do is go out and play the best I can and it makes the award extra special when you know it comes from opposing players.
“To be only the second player to win the Dally M and the Steve Prescott Man of Steel Award is a special thing and something I can tell the grandkids in years to come.”
He continued: “The season ended disappointedly with the way we finished. To be top of the table for most of the year and be so dominate, to then fall at the final hurdle twice is sad. But that is football; if you don’t turn up and perform you lose and credit to both sides who are in the Grand Final. They have both had great years.
“Finally, I’d like to thank all the guys at the club I have met over the last 16 months. I have become great friends with a lot of them … and to the St Helens people, what you have done for me and my family, and your welcome, has allowed me to enjoy my football and play the way I did. I can’t thank you enough.”
Full Awards:
Hit Man (Top tackler) – Paul McShane (Castleford Tigers)
Metre Maker – Bill Tupou (Wakefield Trinity)
Top Gun – Luke Gale (Castleford Tigers)
Top Try Scorer – Ben Barba (St Helens)
Foundation of the Year – Leeds Rhinos Foundation
Club of the Year – Warrington Wolves
Coach of the Year – Shaun Wane (Wigan Warriors)
Young Player of the Year – Jacob Trueman (Castleford Tigers)
Woman of Steel – Georgia Roche (Castleford Tigers)
Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel – Ben Barba (St Helens)
Steve Prescott Man of Steel Awards Gallery (SW Pix)
