Man of Steel contenders: Liam Farrell

20 Nov 2020

Man of Steel contenders: Liam Farrell

One-club-man Liam Farrell has been Betfred Super League's Mr. Consistent in his testimonial year at Wigan Warriors. 

Wiganer Farrell, who rose to prominence through Warrior’s academy system, epitomises Wigan Warriors ethos through his impeccable attitude and hard-working performances.

For some, Farrell may be a surprise edition to the list of contenders for this year’s Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel award. A player who quietly goes about his business, Farrell’s contribution to the Warriors league leaders’ winning campaign has been an integral part to their success.

He has missed just one Super League game for the Warriors this year, and his consistent output and influence on the Warriors side has earned him a well-deserved opportunity to be crowned this year’s Man of Steel.

Consistency is the key focus whenever Liam Farrell is discussed. The experienced backrowers game is gritty and stylish in equal quantities. 

His workload never falters - highlighted in his stats across the year. Farrell sits second in metres gained and carries through the regular season, third in tackles made and fourth in both tackle busts and clean breaks.

And he's turned up when it matters time and time again. In October, trailing a strong Wolves side with minutes left in the contest, the backrower crossed for the game winning try, a score that took the Warriors a long way to pursuing top spot and a League Leaders' shield. 

Scoring his 100 Wigan try against the Rhino's, Farrell produced a typically impressive performance - filled with tough running, match-winning contributions and defence which lifts the entire team.

He has without doubt been the best and most consistent backrow forward in Super League this year.

His dependability and work ethic does not go unnoticed by anyone at the Warriors club. Paying tribute to his efforts on and off the field, Farrell’s teammate and fellow Man of Steel contender Bevan French spoke of his influence around the club.

He said: “He’s one of the most consistent players I’ve come across. You know what you’re going to get with him every week.

“He’s one of those guys that doesn’t really say much on the field or at training. He leads with his actions.?? He outlined.

“He’s always the first and last person in the gym. He’s been our most consistent performer all year.??

It’s easy to become enveloped by the magic of players like Bevan French who produce show-stopping moments regularly through the year – and rightly so.

However, it’s the tireless work of individuals like Liam Farrell who set the platform for his team - allowing players around him to capitalise. 

And Farrell is no slouch himself. The backrower has been involved in his share of the action for the Warriors this year, showing up at key moments to lift his team as well as producing game-changing contributions.

His hard line running, relentless nature and win at all costs attitude is admirable. A sentiment recognised by Andy Last - Hull FC interim coach - who has been a big fan of Farrell's performances this year. 

He expained: "I think he's been absolutely outstanding.

"When you talk about a Man of Steel, I think about people who have consistently performed week in week out.

"I think Liam's been an eight, nine or ten out of ten on a regular basis. He's been sensational for them [Wigan]."

It comes as no surprise that Farrell has continually impressed the Man of Steel panellists and secured a top five spot as a contender for this prestigious award. His consistent performances and impact in a star-studded Warriors team speaks volumes of Farrell’s skill, work-ethic, and influence.

And now, he has an opportunity to be named the 2020 Steve Prescott MBE Man of Steel, live on Sky Sports on Monday Night.