Trio of England stars shortlisted for Golden Boot award
Photo courtesy of Richard Long
England trio Elliott Whitehead, John Bateman and Tommy Makinson have been added to the long-list for the RLIF’s Golden Boot award.
Canberra Raiders back-rower Whitehead and soon-to-be club team-mate John Bateman have been shortlisted for the award, along with St Helens winger Makinson.
Penrith Panthers ace Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, the Kiwis captain, and his international team-mate, New Zealand Warriors playmaker Shaun Johnson, are also in contention for the prestigious award.
The Golden Boot award is presented to the player who has produced the most outstanding performances in international games since last year’s World Cup final.
Australia captain Boyd Cordner, his Sydney Roosters team-mate James Tedesco and Cronulla Sharks utility-back Valentine Holmes are the Kangaroos’ players nominated.
Tonga forward Siosiua Taukeiaho is the third Roosters player in contention, while North Queensland Cowboys ace Jason Taumalolo completes the list.
England’s Georgia Roche has been added to the list of candidates for the RLIF Women’s Golden Boot award after an impressive international debut in last weekend’s 54-4 defeat of France in Carcassonne.
Roche, who was nominated for the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year, joins New Zealand and St George Illawarra Dragons star Honey Hireme and Australian Isabelle Kelly of Sydney Roosters and Jillaroos and Brisbane Broncos duo Ali Brigginshaw and Brittany Breayley on the list.
It is the first time there will be a Golden Boot award for the best player in the women’s game.
2018 RLIF Golden Boot candidates: John Bateman (England), Boyd Cordner (Australia), Valentine Holmes (Australia), Shaun Johnson (New Zealand), Tommy Makinson (England), Siosiua Taukeiaho (Tonga), Jason Taumalolo (Tonga), James Tedesco (Australia), Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (New Zealand), Elliott Whitehead (England).
2018 RLIF Women’s Golden Boot candidates: Ali Brigginshaw (Australia), Brittany Breayley (Australia), Honey Hireme (New Zealand), Isabelle Kelly (Australia), Georgia Roche (England).