Warrington fullback Brett Hodgson was humbled after being awarded the Lance Todd Trophy for his starring role in the Wolves’ Challenge Cup win over Leeds at Wembley.
The former Wests Tigers NRL captain recovered from a heavy knock to the head early in the second half to set up two critical tries in Warrington’s 35-18 win.
The 34-year-old man of the match capped a fine display by kicking five goals and crossing for a late try to put the seal on the Wolves’ third Challenge Cup win in four years.
“It’s huge. I have been very fortunate through my career to play with some great players, win an NRL grand final and now this,” Hodgson said.
“It is very humbling to receive such an honour. It is going to be something I look back on with great admiration and I am very excited and honoured to accept it.”
Hodgson was involved in the game’s major turning point when he was knocked over by a powerful challenge from Leeds forward Kylie Leuluai.
Warrington led only 12-10 at the time and Hodgson, who ducked into Leuluai’s shoulder, lost possession and Brett Delaney scooped up to cross for Leeds.
But the Rhinos were to be denied as video referee Phil Bentham, after ruling Delaney’s tackle legal, spotted a double knock-on.
Hodgson recovered and helped put over Chris Riley and Ryan Atkins for tries that put the Wolves into a decisive lead.
Warrington went on to establish control as Tyrone McCarthy and then Hodgson crossed, with veteran Lee Briers adding a drop goal.
Hodgson’s fellow Australians Joel Monaghan and Trent Waterhouse had earlier touched down in a first half played mostly in torrential rain.
Wolves coach Tony Smith was full of praise for Hodgson.
“He was terrific for us. He copped a pounding today. He took some knocks, but he got up. He is a tough bloke,” said the brother of Sydney Roosters coach Brian Smith.
“What he lacks in pace and size compared to other fullbacks he makes up for in smartness … he orchestrated some of those tries – they were planned by him, not the coaches.”
Leeds played their part in a competitive first half, scoring through Ian Kirke, but struggled as Warrington built momentum in the second period.
Kallum Watkins went over twice late for Leeds but they were mere consolation.
The Super League champions have now lost their past six appearances in the Challenge Cup final
Leeds coach Brian McDermott was bemused by Bentham’s interpretation of the Hodgson-Leuluai incident.
“I didn’t see a knock-on from anybody. I just thought the ball came out of the back of his arm,” he said.
“That said, Warrington were the better team on the day. They played well and deserved the win.
“We dust ourselves off, stay tight as a group, learn from it.”