Waterman and McConnell named Championships Players of the Week
Doncaster’s Lee Waterman and North Wales Crusaders’ Dave McConnell are the Premier Sports Players of the Week.
Waterman was outstanding as Doncaster produced a shock win over Sheffield Eagles while McConnell capped the final match of his career with a try inside the last two minutes as Crusaders sealed the Championship One title with victory over South Wales Scorpions.
Every week each coach in the Championship and Championship One is contacted to help compile the Premier Sports awards.
Premier Sports Championship Player of the Week – Lee Waterman (Doncaster)
Lee Waterman answered an early call to arms to help inspire Doncaster to an outstanding 34-20 win over South Yorkshire rivals Sheffield Eagles.
Waterman had been coming off the bench in recent weeks and featuring at loose forward – but an early injury to Dennis Tuffour meant a backline reshuffle for coach Tony Miller and a return to his old full-back position for the substitute.
Miller said: “Lee moved back to his old full-back position and I thought he had a top game.
“He was strong every time he carried the ball back for us.
“He also scored a 90-metre try when he out-paced Menzie Yere, so it was a big game from him.”
Premier Sports Championship One Player of the Week – Dave McConnell (North Wales Crusaders)
North Wales Crusaders hooker Dave McConnell ended his playing career in fine style, starring in his side’s 35-22 win over South Wales Scorpions.
McConnell capped a fine display with a try in the penultimate minute as North Wales secured the Championship One title and automatic promotion to the Championship for 2014.
Crusaders coach Clive Griffiths said: “We had every emotion and every twist and turn you could imagine, but that try for Dave was like the script was already written. It was a great moment for him.”
He added: “I’m so proud. North Wales Crusaders are alive and kicking, and I’m so pleased for the fans who have turned up week in, week out. This is my greatest moment in club rugby.”
Championship and Championship One Player of the Year awards
The weekly points awarded towards the end of season Player of the Year awards will not now be publicised for the remainder of the season, with a shortlist of nominees being announced before the official awards night.