3 minute read

Liam Martin has become the fourth second-rower of the NRL era to win a Clive Churchill medal after shining in Penrith's 14-6 grand final triumph over Melbourne.

A powerhouse display by enforcer Liam Martin in Penrith's 14-6 grand final win over Melbourne has earned him the Clive Churchill medal.

Martin broke through the Storm line to score the try that gave his side the lead at the end of the first half, then leapt above Melbourne's aerial weapon Xavier Coates to set up the game-sealer at Accor Stadium on Sunday evening.

But his brutal tackling and fearless running throughout were just as impressive as he joined Luke Lewis, Craig Fitzgibbon and Gorden Tallis as second-rowers to have been named the best player in a grand final in the NRL era.

His one-on-one strip on Jack Howarth in the second half came at a crucial time as the Storm were gaining ascendancy and his 43 tackles were integral to his forward pack's dominance.

Martin congratulated Melbourne for their stellar year in the competition as he accepted the award. 

"I've got the utmost respect for you guys. You're just there every year," he said.

"To our boys, I love you so much. Just shows the character we have to dig deep, and I was gone then but to have you boys drag me along, I adore you guys, the fans. Just love you guys.

"Thank you so much. We do it for you. We do it for Penrith. Love yous."