Rated the best front rower in the NRL in 2018, Andrew Fifita has taken his game to new levels this season.
Churning out big minutes and big metres, Fifita has featured in all 26 games for the Sharks while also making appearances for Tonga in the mid season pacific test and their end of season match against the Kangaroos.
While his stats told the story on the field, it was his leadership that most impressed coach Shane Flanagan when senior players Gallen, Graham and Lewis were all sidelined with injuries.
Fifita was handed the captaincy on more than one occasion, and each and every time he stood up with man of the match like performances.
He topped the NRL with 82 offloads, was second in all runs with 435 hit ups and recorded 117 tackle breaks, fifth in the competition.
Fifita took out the Dally M Prop of the Year and did so on one leg, after injuring his Knee in Round 6 against the Dragons, with some fearing he torn his ACL.
Thankfully scans confirmed that he had severe swelling on the knee and some bone bruising.
He would battle on through the pain for the remainder of the season, but it would not stop him from putting in 100%, always one to carry on for his team mates and lead from the front.
Stats
Photo of the Year
A moment lucky Sharks fans are sure to never forget.
Following the Sharks Round 19 victory over the Raiders, the squad returned to the field, inviting Members and fans to sing 'Up Up Cronulla' with the team. Fifita's 'three cheers' including the first for all of our fans.
2019 - What's ahead
Andrew Fifita will no doubt be back bigger and better than ever, with the Sharks prop contracted until the end of 2022
