6 Tackles: Wingers of 2013
A winger who scores 46 tries in a season is never going to be far away from this list, especially when those scores contribute to both Challenge Cup and Super League success. During the World Cup there were question marks over the Wigan man’s place in the England starting line-up, but he won his shirt back from Tom Briscoe to be first choice for the knock-out stages.
Lineham’s size and speed made him an instant hit in 2013, and in total he scored 21 tries as Hull FC fought for success in both the cup and league. His breakaway try against Warrington in the Challenge Cup Semi-Final was one of the moments of the season, not just because of its importance but also the sheer determination he showed.
Warrington’s consistent number five was again a key performer as the Wolves reached their second successive Grand Final. Overall Monaghan managed a total of 32 tries in 31 appearances, and his injury was a massive turning point in the Wire’s Old Trafford defeat, where he had earlier opened the scoring with a trademark effort under a high kick.
After yet another State of Origin defeat and an underwhelming season from his club side St George Illawarra, Morris still managed to earn a starting spot in Australia‘s World Cup side. As the Kangaroos breezed to victory Morris’ performances proved that he is currently the best winger in Australia, if not the world.
While Monaghan’s season ended in despair, fellow Aussie stalwart Richards enjoyed a fairytale campaign in 2013. After eight seasons in Cherry and White Richards decided to leave Wigan and return home, but before doing so he helped the Warriors secure the double, scoring the last try in the Grand Final.
From rookie to superstar with an NRL ring along the way, Tuivasa-Sheck had an unbelievable year. To top it all off he ended 2013 playing alongside self-confessed heroes such as Manu Vatuvei, as he represented eventual runners-up New Zealand at the World Cup.