Simona gunning for Kiwis berth

Tigers centre Tim Simona is hoping his solid 2016 form earns him a call from Kiwis coach Stephen Kearney for the Four Nations in October.

The 24-year-old Simona has scored seven tries and made eight line breaks in his 20 appearances this season, helping Wests fight against the odds for a finals spot.

He played the full 80 minutes on Sunday and made 86 metres as the Tigers overran a pliant Warriors on home soil to win 36-24.

The win kept the Tigers in the hunt for a top eight spot while condemning the Warriors, who collapsed in the final 10 minutes of the match, to a fifth consecutive year without finals football.

Simona said he was keen to earn himself a trip to England with the Kiwis, who will be looking to secure a third Four Nations crown.

The Auckland-born centre was called up to the Kiwis training squad last year but is yet to make his international debut.

“I’ve always wanted to play for the Kiwis as a kid,” Simona said.

“I’m just trying to play good footy for the Tigers and consistent footy, and hopefully the reward will come.”

Simona, who moved to Australia aged six, has also played for the Samoan national side.

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